All About Sports Guards
Sports guards are more than just tooth protectors—they provide comprehensive defense for your entire oral structure. Designed to safeguard braces, dental implants, bridges, and other fixed appliances, they also protect the inside of your cheeks and lips from the risks of accidental injury during physical activity. Whether you’re playing contact sports, engaging in recreational activities, or involved in situations where falls and impacts are common, a custom sports guard is an invaluable investment. While generic guards offer basic protection, nothing beats the comfort and effectiveness of a professionally crafted sports guard tailored specifically for your mouth and teeth.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Stock sports guards are ready-made and available at most sporting goods stores, offering a convenient option for those in need of quick protection. However, these guards are often ill-fitting, causing discomfort, and can interfere with speaking or breathing. Athletes may find themselves constantly adjusting or removing the guard during play, leading to distractions that could affect performance.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
A step up from stock guards, boil-and-bite guards are molded to your teeth after softening in hot water. This process allows for a better fit, providing a more secure and comfortable experience compared to stock options. While they are a popular choice, they may still feel bulky or uncomfortable for some, especially if the fit isn’t perfect. If this happens, a custom-made mouthguard may be the best solution for optimal comfort and protection.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
For the best in comfort, fit, and protection, custom-made mouthguards are the clear winner. Designed specifically for your teeth and mouth, they offer superior comfort and security, ensuring no interference with breathing or speaking. Custom sports guards provide unparalleled protection and are tailored to your unique needs. And, should any adjustments be needed, we’re here to help and ensure your satisfaction with the final product.
The Cost of Sports Guards in San Diego
The cost of a custom sports guard can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors. For patients with insurance, the typical cost for a custom mouthguard ranges from $100 to $300 or more. Without insurance, the cost generally falls between $150 to $350, and can go higher depending on specific needs.
Two main elements influence the cost of a custom sports guard:
- Material Type: The type of material used for your mouthguard can affect the overall price, as more durable or specialized materials tend to cost more.
- Ongoing Orthodontic Treatment: If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as braces, additional customization may be required to accommodate your specific dental needs.
It’s important to note that we cannot provide an exact cost estimate over the phone due to the personalized nature of dental care. To receive an accurate quote, it’s necessary to schedule a consultation and undergo an oral exam. If you have insurance, we will be happy to provide a quote that you can submit to your insurance company to help you determine your out-of-pocket costs before making a final decision.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, mouthguards and nightguards are designed for different purposes. Mouthguards protect your teeth from impact during sports, while nightguards are specifically intended to protect your teeth and jaw from the effects of grinding and clenching during sleep.
These terms are often used interchangeably but essentially refer to the same thing—a protective device worn over your teeth to reduce the risk of injury during physical activities.
Sports guards typically last for one sports season. Over time, they can wear down, especially if they are chewed on or improperly cared for. Additionally, as children’s teeth and jaws change, especially during adolescence, the fit of their guard may become less effective, so a new one may be needed regularly.
A well-fitting sports guard should be comfortable, allowing you to breathe and speak easily. If you find yourself adjusting it frequently or removing it during activity, it likely doesn’t fit properly.
Sports guards are essential for any activities that involve a risk of impact, including falls, collisions, or being struck by equipment. Common sports that require a sports guard include football, hockey, lacrosse, baseball, soccer, wrestling, boxing, and even non-contact activities like skateboarding, mountain biking, and gymnastics.
Yes, wearing a sports guard is highly recommended for individuals with braces! It not only protects your teeth but also shields your braces and the soft tissues inside your mouth from injury during physical activities.
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