All About Sports Guards
Sports guards are an important part of protecting your smile during active play. In addition to cushioning your teeth from impact, they can help safeguard braces and fixed dental restorations, including bridges and dental implants. They can also create a barrier between braces and the soft tissues inside your cheeks and lips, helping reduce irritation or injury during an accident. A sports guard is a smart choice for anyone taking part in sports or activities where falls, contact, or airborne equipment could lead to an impact. While an over-the-counter guard offers some protection, a custom sports guard from your dental team is designed specifically to fit your mouth comfortably and securely.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Stock sports guards are pre-formed and ready to use, making them easy to find at sporting goods stores. However, because they are not designed for a specific mouth, they may feel loose, bulky, or uncomfortable. Some can also make speaking and breathing more challenging. If the guard feels distracting during play, athletes may be tempted to remove it or adjust it instead of keeping it in place.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
Boil and bite sports guards are also widely available at sporting goods retailers and come with instructions for shaping the guard at home. The material is softened in hot water before you bite into it to create a more personalized fit. While these guards generally fit better than stock options, the results can vary. If your guard feels uncomfortable, interferes with breathing or speaking, or feels too bulky, a custom option may be a better choice.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
When it comes to protecting your smile, a custom-made mouth guard offers important advantages. Your dental team can create a sports guard based on the unique shape and needs of your mouth, providing a secure and comfortable fit. A well-fitted guard is easier to wear throughout your activity and provides reliable protection during play. If adjustments are needed, your dental team can help ensure your guard feels right and stays comfortable.
The Cost Of A Custom Sports Guard In Hamilton
The cost of a custom sports guard can depend on your individual needs and dental coverage. With a typical insurance plan, patients may pay approximately $100 to $300 or more for a mouth guard. Without insurance coverage, a custom sports guard generally ranges from $150 to $350 or more.
So Why Can The Cost Of A Custom Mouth Guard Vary?
There are two main factors that can affect the cost:
- The type and quality of material used to make your sports guard.
- Whether you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment and need a guard designed around your braces or other appliances.
Keep in mind that every smile is different, so an exact cost cannot be determined accurately over the phone. A dental examination allows your dentist to assess your needs, discuss your options, and provide an accurate estimate. If you have dental insurance, we can also provide a quote that you can submit to your insurance provider to help determine your expected out-of-pocket cost before moving forward.
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.
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