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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in St. Williams
From hockey to mountain biking, a sports guard helps protect teeth from impact. St. Williams athletes can be fitted for a custom guard at our Port Dover office.
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A comfortable guard is one athletes will actually wear.
Sports guards, also called mouthguards, cushion the teeth, lips and jaw against impacts during physical activity. They are commonly worn for hockey, football, lacrosse, rugby, martial arts and boxing, and are worth considering for basketball, soccer, cycling and other sports where falls or collisions can happen. A good fit makes a real difference to comfort and protection.
Athletes of all ages in St. Williams can be fitted for a custom sports guard at our Port Dover office. The team will look at your teeth, ask about your sport and recommend a design that balances protection with the ability to breathe and speak during play.
Why wear one
A guard can reduce the impact of a blow.
Preventing dental injuries
Mouthguards help absorb and spread the force of an impact, reducing the risk of chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth and cuts to the lips and cheeks. Dental injuries can be painful, costly and sometimes permanent, so prevention is worthwhile for anyone in contact or high-risk sports.
Protecting dental work
If you have crowns, bridges, veneers, implants or braces, a guard helps protect that dental work from damage. Let the dentist know about any restorations or appliances so the guard can be designed to fit and protect them properly.
Choosing a guard
Fit affects comfort and protection.
Stock and boil-and-bite guards
Stock guards come ready-made, and boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and shaped by biting. They are inexpensive and widely available but may fit loosely, feel bulky and make breathing or speaking harder. Athletes sometimes stop wearing them for these reasons.
Custom-fitted guards
Custom guards are made from impressions or scans of your teeth, so they fit snugly and are generally more comfortable. They can be made in different thicknesses depending on the sport and level of contact. The dentist can recommend the best design for your needs.
Fitting
A custom guard usually takes two short visits.
Taking records
At the first visit, the dentist examines your teeth and takes impressions or a digital scan. You can discuss the sport you play, the level of contact and any colour preferences. Allow time before your season starts for the guard to be made.
Trying the guard on
At the fitting appointment, you will try the guard on so the dentist can check how it fits and feels. Adjustments may be made to improve comfort. Practise wearing it during training before using it in a game, so you get used to breathing and talking with it.
Care
Look after your guard between games.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard before and after use, clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap and let it dry before storing it in a ventilated case. Avoid leaving it in a hot car or direct sunlight, which can warp it. Do not share guards with teammates.
When to replace
Bring your guard to dental checkups so the fit can be assessed. Replace it if it is torn, worn, loose or no longer fits after dental work. Growing children and teens may need new guards more often as their mouths change.
Planning your appointment
Getting fitted from St. Williams.
Call our Port Dover office before your season begins. Mention the sport, your age and any braces or dental work so the team can schedule the fitting.
Bring your current guard if you have one, so the dentist can compare and discuss whether a custom guard would improve fit.
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.
Which sports need a mouthguard?
Contact sports like hockey, football and martial arts carry a high risk. Basketball, soccer, cycling and skateboarding can also cause mouth injuries. Check league rules and ask the dentist.
Is a custom guard better than a store-bought one?
Custom guards generally fit better and are more comfortable, which encourages consistent use. Store-bought guards offer some protection but may be bulky or loose.
Can I wear a guard with braces?
Yes. Special guards can be designed to protect both teeth and braces. Tell the dentist and orthodontist so they can recommend a suitable option.
How long does a sports guard last?
It depends on use and wear. Replace it when it becomes damaged, loose or no longer fits. Children and teens may need replacements more often.
What if I take a hit while wearing the guard?
Check for injuries and call the dental office if teeth feel loose, sensitive or damaged. Seek emergency care for head injuries or uncontrolled bleeding.
Protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
Hockey, soccer or biking on country roads can lead to knocks. St. Williams parents can ask our Port Dover team about a mouthguard that fits a child’s changing teeth.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
A fall, a sports collision or a slip on the trail can injure teeth and gums. St. Williams residents can call our Port Dover office for guidance after dental trauma.