Sky Dental - Thunder Bay

Sport Guards in Thunder Bay

Sports guards offer more than just protection for your teeth. They also safeguard braces, fixed dental appliances (such as bridges and dental implants), and shield the inside of your cheeks and lips from potential harm caused by braces during accidental incidents.
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All About Sports Guards

Sports guards provide more than just protection for your teeth. They also safeguard braces, fixed dental appliances (such as bridges and dental implants), and provide added protection for the inside of your cheeks and lips from potential injuries caused by braces during accidents. Investing in a sports guard is highly recommended for individuals participating in activities and sports involving falls, body contact, or flying equipment. While any sports guard is better than none, a custom-made guard tailored to your mouth and teeth by your dental team offers unparalleled effectiveness and comfort.

So What Are Your Options?

Stock Sports Guards

Pre-formed sports guards, readily available at sporting goods stores, may not provide the best fit and can feel bulky in your mouth, causing difficulty in breathing and talking. Athletes often find themselves distracted by these ill-fitting guards, leading them to remove or play with them during the game.

Boil & Bite Sports Guards

Boil-and-bite sports guards are available in kits along with instructions. By boiling the blank guard in water and then biting into the plastic, you can mould the guard to fit your teeth. These guards, found at sporting goods stores, offer a better fit compared to stock guards. However, it’s important to note that this method may not suit everyone. If your boil-and-bite guard feels uncomfortable, bulky, or hinders breathing or speaking, it’s worth considering a custom-made guard for optimal comfort and protection.

Custom-Made Mouth Guards

It’s no surprise that our favourite option is an individualized, custom-made mouthguard, and for good reason! A sports guard crafted specifically by our team provides unparalleled protection and comfort. In the rare instance that it doesn’t feel comfortable, we are here to make the necessary adjustments, and you can count on us to address any concerns you may have. Your satisfaction and well-being are our top priorities.

The Cost Of A Custom Sports Guard In Thunder Bay

The cost of a custom sports guard can vary significantly from patient to patient. With an average insurance plan, a mouth guard typically ranges from $100 to $300 or more. Without insurance coverage, the cost of a custom mouth guard falls between $150 to $350 and above.

Several factors contribute to the variation in cost for a custom mouth guard:
  1. The type of material used to fabricate the guard.
  2. Consideration for ongoing orthodontic treatment.

Keep in mind that it is not possible to provide an accurate quote over the phone as your needs are unique, just like your smile. It is important to consult with a dentist and undergo an oral examination to explore all available treatment options and receive an accurate cost estimate. If you have dental insurance, we are happy to provide you with a quote that can be submitted to your insurance provider, allowing you to determine your out-of-pocket expenses before making a 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

Absolutely! While both mouthguards and nightguards are custom-fitted to your teeth, they serve distinct purposes for your teeth and jaw. Mouthguards are specifically designed to provide protection during sports or physical activities, shielding your mouth from potential impacts. On the other hand, night guards primarily focus on your bite, teeth alignment, and jaw position, aiming to alleviate issues related to teeth grinding or clenching during sleep. Each guard serves a unique function, catering to the specific needs of your oral health and well-being.

Ideally, sports guards should be replaced after each sports season. Over time, mouth guards can experience wear and tear, particularly if the wearer has a habit of chewing on or mistreating the guard. Additionally, as teeth can shift during adolescence, the fit of the guard may no longer be optimal. It is common for athletes involved in multiple sports to have a new sports guard made during their routine 6-month checkup to ensure proper protection and fit. Regular replacement of sports guards helps maintain their effectiveness and ensures the continued safety and comfort of the wearer.

A custom-fit sports guard should provide comfort while in your mouth, allowing for easy breathing and talking. If you find yourself fidgeting with the guard or removing it during crucial moments of the game, it may indicate an improper fit. It is important to ensure that your sports guard fits correctly to maximize both its protective capabilities and your overall performance.

A sports guard is highly recommended for any sport or activity that involves potential falls, contact with other players, or the risk of being hit by equipment or balls. If you or your child participate in football, hockey, lacrosse, baseball, soccer, field hockey, water polo, cricket, ringette, curling, skateboarding, gymnastics, mountain biking, wrestling, boxing, or any other contact or high-risk sport, it is important to consider using a sports guard for optimal protection.

You are strongly encouraged to wear a sports guard for enhanced protection! Not only does it safeguard your teeth, but it also provides crucial protection for your braces. In the event of an impact to the face, the sports guard also shields the inside of your lips and cheeks from potential harm caused by the braces. Prioritizing the use of a sports guard ensures comprehensive protection for your oral health and orthodontic treatment.

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