Sports Mouth Guards FAQ

What is a mouth guard? 

A mouth guard helps to protect your teeth, tongue, gums, lips, and cheeks from trauma that sports injuries may cause injuries. Think of a sports mouth guard like a helmet for your teeth that helps prevent serious injury.  

Why do I need a mouth guard? 

Accidents happen! If you or your child plays a contact sport like basketball, football, lacrosse, hockey, boxing, or soccer, a mouth guard can help protect your mouth if you experience contact with your face. Some noncontact sports like skateboarding might pose a risk of injury too and could benefit from getting a mouth guard. Chipping a tooth or having your tooth knocked out can be painful and costly. By wearing a mouth guard, you can help limit or prevent these injuries. You can also prevent nerve damage to the tooth and any soft tissue damage to the gums, lips, tongue, and inside cheeks.  

What is the difference between a mouth guard and a night guard? 

Mouth guards are used to protect your mouth from sports-related injuries, while night guards are worn while you sleep to help protect your teeth from bruxism or grinding your teeth. Both are excellent at protecting your mouth.  

How do I get a mouth guard? 

Getting a mouth guard is easy! Mouth guards are custom fitted at the dentist to provide the best fit to protect your mouth. Because of the special material, custom mouth guards are made from, they provide the most comfort and protection compared to over-the-counter mouth guards. Most mouth guards are fitted for only the upper teeth; however, if you have braces, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend a mouth guard for the lower teeth as well. 

Protecting your smile is important and can be easy thanks to mouth guards! If you or your child need a mouth guard, ask your dentist at your next check-up.