Sports Guards
A custom sports guard is one of the simplest and most effective pieces of protective equipment an athlete can wear. Impact to the mouth during sports and physical activities can result in chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth, lacerations to the lips and cheeks, and injuries to the jaw. A properly fitted mouthguard absorbs and distributes the force of impact, dramatically reducing the risk of dental trauma and its associated costs, pain, and treatment time.
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, sports guards are custom fabricated from impressions of each patient's teeth, producing a guard that fits securely, stays in place during activity, and allows for comfortable breathing and communication. Unlike the boil-and-bite or one-size-fits-all guards available in stores, a custom guard is made from durable, professional-grade materials and designed to match the exact contours of the patient's mouth. This precision translates directly into better protection, better comfort, and more consistent use.
Sports guards are recommended for athletes of all ages who participate in contact and collision sports such as basketball, football, hockey, lacrosse, boxing, and martial arts. They are equally valuable in non-contact sports where falls and collisions still occur, including cycling, skateboarding, gymnastics, and skiing. For patients who also grind their teeth, a separate nightguard for bruxism is recommended, as sports guards and nightguards are designed for different purposes and different levels of force.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a custom sports guard better than a store-bought one?
Custom guards are molded to the exact shape of the patient's teeth, providing a secure fit that does not shift during activity. Store-bought guards are generic, often uncomfortable, and provide less effective protection because they do not conform precisely to the mouth. Athletes who wear ill-fitting guards tend to remove them during play, negating the protection entirely.
Which sports require a mouthguard?
Mouthguards are essential for contact sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, boxing, and martial arts. They are also strongly recommended for basketball, soccer, baseball, cycling, skateboarding, and any activity where a fall or impact to the face is possible.
Can children get custom sports guards?
Yes. Custom sports guards are available for young athletes and can be refabricated as the child's mouth grows and changes. Protecting developing teeth from impact injuries is especially important, as damage to permanent teeth at a young age can require a lifetime of restorative care.
How long does a custom sports guard last?
For adults, a well-maintained sports guard typically lasts several seasons. For children and adolescents whose mouths are still developing, the guard may need to be replaced more frequently to maintain proper fit. The guard should be brought to dental visits so the team can check for wear and fit.
How do I care for my sports guard?
Rinse the guard with cool water after each use and clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap. Store it in a ventilated case to allow it to dry and prevent bacterial growth. Avoid exposing it to heat, which can warp the material and compromise the fit.
