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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in Turkey Point
A custom sports guard helps protect teeth, lips and jaws during contact and high-speed activities. Turkey Point athletes can learn about fitting and care in Port Dover.
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Caring for Turkey Point patients at our Port Dover office
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A well-fitting sports guard can prevent a painful and costly injury.
Hockey, rugby, basketball, martial arts, mountain biking and many other activities carry a risk of a blow to the face. A sports guard cushions the teeth, spreads impact forces and protects the lips and cheeks from cuts. The more comfortable and secure it is, the more likely you are to wear it every time.
Athletes of all ages in Turkey Point can be fitted for a custom sports guard at our Port Dover office. Mention your sport, your position and any dental work such as crowns or braces when you book.
Why wear one
Mouth injuries in sport are common and often avoidable.
Injuries a guard can help prevent
Chipped, cracked and knocked-out teeth, cuts to the lips and tongue and jaw injuries can all result from falls and collisions. Repairing these injuries may involve multiple appointments, and some damage is permanent. A guard does not eliminate risk, but it can reduce the severity of many injuries.
Activities to consider
Contact sports are obvious candidates, but activities like skateboarding, cycling, volleyball and even recreational ball games carry some risk. Water sports can involve collisions with equipment or other people. Think about how often you could fall or be struck in the face during your activity.
Choosing a guard
Fit and comfort vary widely between guard types.
Stock and boil-and-bite
Stock guards come ready to wear and boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and shaped by biting down. They are widely available but can be loose, bulky or uncomfortable, making it harder to breathe and talk. Athletes sometimes take them out during play, which defeats their purpose.
Custom-fitted
Custom guards are made from impressions or scans of your teeth, so they fit closely and stay in place. Thickness and coverage can be tailored to your sport. They tend to make breathing and speaking easier, which encourages consistent use. The dentist can explain the options for your activity.
Getting fitted
Two short appointments usually cover the process.
Impressions or scan
The dentist examines your teeth and takes impressions or a digital scan. If you wear braces, have crowns, or expect dental work soon, mention it, since these affect design and fit. The guard is then made to those records, which takes some time, so plan ahead of the season.
Trying it in
At the fitting appointment, the dentist checks that the guard seats firmly, does not dig into the gums and allows comfortable closing. Rough edges can be smoothed. You will learn how to clean and store it. Try it at practice before a game so you can report any issues.
Care and replacement
A clean, intact guard protects best.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use and clean it with a soft brush and cool water or mild soap. Store it in a ventilated case. Keep it away from hot cars and direct sun at the beach, which can warp it. Do not share it with teammates, and avoid chewing on it.
When to replace it
Replace the guard if it becomes torn, thin, loose or no longer fits after dental work. Bring it to checkups so the dentist can assess its condition. If you suffer an injury while playing, contact the office promptly, and seek emergency care for any head injury.
Planning your appointment
Getting a sports guard from Turkey Point
Call our Port Dover office to arrange a custom sports guard fitting. Let the team know your sport and season start date so there is time for the guard to be made.
Bring your current guard if you have one. If you wear braces, mention it so the guard can be designed accordingly.
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 who play contact or high-speed sports can injure teeth just as children can. A custom guard offers protection at any age.
Can I wear a sports guard with braces?
Yes, and it is often recommended. Ask about a design that works with braces and allows for tooth movement.
How long does a custom guard last?
With good care, a guard can last a season or more. Replace it if it is damaged, loose or no longer fits.
Will a guard affect my breathing?
Custom guards are designed to allow easier breathing and speaking than many store-bought guards.
What if I lose a tooth during a game?
For an adult tooth, handle it by the crown, keep it moist in milk and contact a dentist immediately. Seek emergency care for head injury.
Related protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
From hockey to soccer, a well-fitted mouthguard helps protect young teeth. Turkey Point parents can discuss custom guards, fit and care at our Port Dover office.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
Falls, collisions and water-sport bumps can injure teeth. Turkey Point patients can learn what to do first and how injuries are assessed at our Port Dover office.