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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in Selkirk
A well-fitted sports guard helps protect teeth during hockey, rugby, basketball and more. Selkirk athletes can be fitted for a custom guard in Port Dover.
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See every service for Selkirk patientsProtection you will actually wear
A comfortable guard is one that stays in during play.
Sports guards help cushion blows to the mouth and jaw, reducing the risk of chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth and cuts to the lips and cheeks. They are recommended for contact sports and many other activities with a risk of falls or impact. Adults who play recreational sports benefit just as much as young athletes.
Adults in rec leagues and students on school teams in Selkirk can be fitted for a custom guard at our Port Dover office. The dentist can explain how a custom guard differs from store-bought options, which thickness may suit your sport and how to look after it through the season.
Why wear one
Prevention is simpler than repairing an injury.
Sports with higher risk
Hockey, football, rugby, lacrosse, basketball, soccer, martial arts, boxing and skateboarding all carry a risk of dental injury. Even non-contact activities like cycling or gymnastics involve falls. Repairing a broken or knocked-out tooth can involve multiple appointments and long-term care. A guard is a small investment of time to help reduce that risk.
Custom versus store-bought
Stock and boil-and-bite guards are widely available, but they may fit loosely, feel bulky and make breathing or talking harder. A custom guard is made from impressions or scans of your teeth, so it fits more closely and comfortably. That comfort often means athletes are more willing to keep it in throughout games and practices.
Getting fitted
Two short appointments are typical.
Impressions and design
At the first visit, the dentist checks your teeth and takes impressions or scans. Mention your sport, position and the level of contact involved, as this may influence the guard’s thickness and design. If you wear braces, have bridges or other dental work, let the dentist know so the guard can be designed around them appropriately.
Fitting and adjustments
When the guard is ready, the dentist checks how it fits, how you breathe and speak with it in and whether your bite feels even. Small adjustments may be made. You will be shown how to insert, remove and clean it. Wear it at a practice before a big game to get used to the feel.
Caring for it
Care keeps the guard hygienic and effective.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use, clean it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a recommended cleaner, then let it dry. Store it in a ventilated case, not loose in a gear bag. Keep it away from heat, including car dashboards and direct sunlight, which can warp it. Do not share guards with teammates.
Signs it needs replacing
Bring your guard to dental checkups so its condition can be checked. Holes, tears, thinning, a loose fit or a bite that feels uneven suggest it may need replacing. Teenagers whose teeth are still changing, and anyone who has had new dental work, may need a new guard more often to maintain proper fit.
If injury happens
Guards reduce risk, but injuries can still occur.
Immediate steps
If a tooth is chipped, loosened or knocked out, check first for head injury, heavy bleeding or breathing difficulty, which need emergency medical care. For a knocked-out adult tooth, handle it by the crown, rinse briefly if dirty and replant or store it in milk. Call the dental office immediately for guidance.
Following up
Even if a tooth looks fine after a hit, it may have damage to the root or nerve that shows up later. Contact the office to arrange an assessment. Follow-up visits may be recommended. If your guard was damaged during the injury, replace it before returning to play to keep protection consistent.
Planning your appointment
Getting a sports guard from Selkirk.
Contact our Port Dover office before the season starts so there is time to make and fit your guard. Mention your sport and any braces or dental work.
Bring your current guard if you have one, so the dentist can compare fit and discuss any improvements for the new appliance.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Sports guard questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Do adults need sports guards too?
Yes. Adults playing recreational hockey, basketball, soccer or other contact sports face similar risks as younger players. A custom guard can help protect teeth, restorations and soft tissues during play, regardless of age or level of competition.
Will a sports guard affect my breathing?
A well-fitted custom guard is designed to allow comfortable breathing and speech. Bulky or loose guards are more likely to interfere. Practise wearing your guard before games, and tell the dentist if breathing feels restricted so it can be adjusted.
Can I wear a guard with braces?
Often, yes. The guard may need to be designed to accommodate brackets and wires, and it may need replacing as teeth move. Let the dentist know about orthodontic treatment so they can recommend a suitable option.
How long does a sports guard last?
It depends on how often it is used, how it is cared for and whether your teeth are changing. Bring it to checkups so the dentist can inspect it. Replace it if it becomes worn, damaged or loose.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out during a game?
Seek emergency care first for head injury or heavy bleeding. For an adult tooth, hold it by the crown, rinse briefly if dirty and replant or store it in milk. Call the dental office immediately for further guidance.
Related protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
Hockey, soccer, lacrosse or baseball? Selkirk parents can ask about custom-fitted sports mouthguards for children at our Port Dover dental office.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
A fall, collision or sports hit can loosen, push or break teeth. Selkirk residents can learn what to do first and how follow-up works in Port Dover.