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Preventive care

Custom sports mouth guards in Saratoga Springs

Practice, games and pickup ball all carry a chance of a hit to the face. A guard made to fit your teeth helps keep your smile in one piece while you play.

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What is a custom mouth guard?

It is a soft, sturdy cover that fits over your teeth during sports. Ours are made from a scan of your own teeth, so the fit is snug. It helps absorb a blow so your teeth, lips and jaw take less of the force.

  • Made from a scan of your teeth, not boiled and bitten
  • Sized for kids, teens and adults
  • Easier to talk, drink and breathe in than a bulky guard

Who should wear one

If a ball, stick, elbow or the ground could meet your face, a guard is a good idea. That includes:

  • Football, hockey, lacrosse and rugby
  • Basketball, soccer and baseball
  • Wrestling, martial arts and boxing
  • Skateboarding, biking and skiing
  • Players with braces, since the brackets can cut the lips on impact

Children's mouths change fast, so a guard that fit last fall may be snug by spring. Your dentist will look at your bite, any loose or new teeth and your sport, then tell you which type of guard fits best. If you clench or grind at night, that is a different need. See our night guard page.

Getting your guard

  1. Quick check. We make sure your teeth and gums are healthy and talk about the sport you play.
  2. Digital scan. A small wand takes a 3D picture of your teeth. No goopy trays.
  3. Making the guard. The guard is shaped to that scan from a tough, flexible plastic.
  4. Try it on. At pickup, we check the fit and the bite. If it rubs or feels loose, we can adjust it.

Bring your sports schedule. If the season is about to start, let us know so we can plan the timing with you.

Keeping your guard clean

  • Rinse it with cool water after each use.
  • Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Skip toothpaste, which can scratch it.
  • Set it out to dry fully before it goes into a case with air holes.
  • Keep it out of hot cars and away from boiling water so it does not warp.
  • Pack it with you for cleanings. We will glance over it for rips or worn areas.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about custom mouth guards

Why not just buy one at the store?
Store guards come in a few set sizes. They can feel bulky, slip out or make it hard to talk. A custom guard is built around your teeth, so it tends to stay in place and feel less in the way.
Can I play with braces?
Yes, and a guard is a smart idea. Ask us about a design that leaves room for your braces as your teeth move.
How long does a guard last?
That comes down to your sport and your age. Kids often need a new one each season. Adults can often use theirs longer if it still fits well and has no tears.
Is a mouth guard the same as a night guard?
No. A sports guard is thicker and cushioned for hits. A night guard is thinner and harder, made to handle grinding while you sleep.
Does insurance pay for sports guards?
Some plans help and some do not. Check our insurance and payment page or call and we will look at your plan.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Oral Trauma Care

Care for teeth and gums hurt in sports, falls or accidents, including follow-up after an ER visit.

About oral trauma care

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Saratoga Springs team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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