Custom Sports Mouthguards in Clovis, CA

Sports can be a great way to stay active, but falls, collisions, balls, equipment, and accidental contact can cause injuries to the teeth and mouth.

A properly fitted sports mouthguard provides a protective barrier around the teeth and soft tissues during physical activity.

At Clovis Country Dental, we provide custom sports mouthguards in Clovis, CA for children, teenagers, recreational athletes, and competitive players.

Why Wear a Sports Mouthguard?

A sports mouthguard can help reduce the risk of certain dental injuries during physical activity.

Without appropriate protection, an impact may cause:

Chipped teeth
Broken teeth
Knocked-out teeth
Cuts to the lips or cheeks
Tongue injuries
Damage to existing dental restorations

A mouthguard does not eliminate the possibility of injury, but it can provide an additional layer of protection for the teeth and mouth.

What Is a Custom Sports Mouthguard?

A custom sports mouthguard is made specifically for your mouth.

Depending on your treatment needs, your dentist may use a digital scan or another appropriate impression technique to create information for fabricating the appliance.

A properly fitted mouthguard should stay securely in place during activity while allowing you to breathe and communicate comfortably.

Learn more about our Impressionless Dentistry and digital scanning technology.

Who Should Consider a Sports Mouthguard?

Sports mouthguards may be appropriate for:

Children who play organized sports
Teen athletes
Adult recreational athletes
Competitive athletes
Athletes involved in contact sports
Athletes involved in collision or high-impact activities

Sports protection can also be important for activities where falls are possible, even when direct contact is not part of the sport.

Which Sports May Require a Mouthguard?

Sports and activities where mouthguards may be recommended include:

Football
Basketball
Soccer
Hockey
Wrestling
Boxing
Martial arts
Lacrosse
Baseball
Softball
Volleyball
Skateboarding
Gymnastics

The appropriate level of protection depends on the activity and individual circumstances.

Custom Sports Mouthguards vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards

Generic mouthguards can provide basic protection, but they are not designed specifically around your teeth.

A custom sports mouthguard is fabricated based on your individual dental anatomy.

Potential advantages include:

Personalized fit
Improved retention
Greater comfort
Easier communication
Less interference with normal breathing
Protection tailored to your dental needs

Your dentist can help determine which option is appropriate for your sport and oral health.

Sports Mouthguards for Children

Children and teenagers may benefit from properly fitted mouthguards because their teeth and jaws are still developing.

Parents should also remember that children’s mouths change as permanent teeth erupt.

For this reason, the fit and condition of a sports mouthguard should be evaluated periodically.

Learn more about Children’s Dentistry.

Can You Wear a Sports Mouthguard With Braces?

Athletes with braces may need a mouthguard designed to accommodate orthodontic appliances.

Do not assume that a standard mouthguard will be appropriate.

If you or your child has braces, discuss mouthguard options with your dentist or orthodontic provider before purchasing an appliance.

Sports Guards and Dental Emergencies

Even with a mouthguard, dental injuries can occur.

If a sports injury causes severe pain, a broken tooth, a cracked tooth, significant bleeding, swelling, or a knocked-out permanent tooth, contact a dental professional promptly.

Learn more about Dental Emergencies.

If a damaged tooth requires restoration, treatment may include a filling or Dental Crown depending on the extent of the injury.

How Should You Care for a Sports Mouthguard?

To keep your mouthguard in good condition:

Rinse it after each use.
Clean it according to your dentist’s instructions.
Store it in a protective case.
Avoid leaving it in excessive heat.
Do not chew on the appliance.
Bring it to dental appointments for evaluation.
Replace it if it becomes damaged or no longer fits properly.

Children and teenagers may need replacement as their teeth and mouths develop.

Sports Guard vs. Night Guard

Sports guards and night guards are designed for different purposes.

A sports mouthguard is worn during physical activity to protect the mouth from impact.

A night guard is generally worn during sleep to help protect teeth from grinding and clenching.

If you grind your teeth at night, learn more about our Custom Night Guards.

The two appliances should not automatically be considered interchangeable.

How Are Custom Sports Mouthguards Made?

The process begins with a dental evaluation.

Your dentist considers your teeth, bite, activity, existing dental work, and other individual factors.

A digital scan or another appropriate impression may then be obtained.

The mouthguard is fabricated based on this information and checked for fit when it is delivered.