Night Guards, Mouthguards, Sport Guards

Dental injuries are among the most common injuries in contact and collision sports. A blow to the face during a game or practice can lead to chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, cuts to the lips and tongue, and jaw injuries, some of which need significant restorative treatment.

A properly fitted mouthguard acts as a cushion that absorbs and spreads the force of an impact, protecting the teeth, lips, cheeks, and jaw. It can greatly reduce the risk of dental injury during sport. If an injury does happen, see the steps for a knocked-out tooth or a broken or chipped tooth.

Mouthguards are recommended for anyone who plays contact or collision sports, at any age or skill level. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Hockey
• Football
• Rugby
• Boxing and martial arts
• Basketball
• Soccer
• Baseball and softball
• Cycling and skateboarding

Children and adults alike benefit from wearing one consistently. Children's growing jaws may need an updated guard from time to time as their teeth and jaw develop.

Custom-fitted (dental office)

• Made from impressions of your teeth for a precise fit
• More comfortable, and fits snugly without needing to clench to hold it in place
• Allows natural breathing and speech during activity
• Made from more durable material than stock or boil-and-bite options
• Better protection from even coverage and proper thickness

Over-the-counter (boil-and-bite or stock)

• Approximate fit that may shift during contact
• Often bulky and uncomfortable, so people are less likely to wear them
• Can interfere with breathing and communication
• Less durable, and may need replacing more often
• Less effective because of the imprecise fit

The process is straightforward:

1. 1

   Impressions

   Impressions are taken of your upper and lower teeth to capture their precise shape and position.

2. 2

   Fabrication

   The impressions are used to make a custom guard from durable, dental-grade material, at the right thickness for your sport and jaw.

3. 3

   Fitting and adjustments

   When your guard is ready, you try it in and the fit is confirmed. Small adjustments can be made so it sits comfortably and securely.

Guards are not only for sport. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom night guard protects your teeth from wear and can ease pressure on the jaw joints. Learn more about custom night guards and TMJ diagnosis.

• Rinse your guard with cool water right after use.
• Clean it from time to time with a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material.
• Store it in a firm, ventilated case when you are not using it.
• Bring it to your dental appointments so it can be checked for wear.
• Replace it if it tears, develops holes, or no longer fits well.