A tooth broken in a hockey game or an elbow in soccer happens fast — and it's a lot harder to repair than to prevent. A custom mouthguard cushions impacts and protects teeth, lips and jaw, far better than the boil-and-bite kind from the pharmacy.
At night, it's a different kind of protection: many people grind or clench their teeth without knowing it. A night guard (occlusal splint) prevents wear and eases the jaw. In both cases, the appliance is made from an impression of your teeth, so it stays put and feels comfortable.
Who should wear one
- Kids and teens who play hockey, soccer, football, rugby or basketball
- Adults in contact sports or sports with a fall risk: skiing, mountain biking, martial arts
- Anyone with braces or aligners who plays sports
- People who wake up with a stiff jaw, a headache or sensitive teeth
- Teeth that are worn, cracked or chipped with no obvious cause
What to expect
- Step 1
Assessment
For a sports guard, we check that the teeth are healthy and talk about the sport, age and growth. For a night guard, the dentist looks for signs of wear, examines the jaw muscles and joint, and discusses your symptoms.
- Step 2
Impression
We take an impression of your teeth — a few minutes, no pain. That's what allows a precise fit, unlike generic models.
- Step 3
Fabrication and fitting
The appliance is custom-made from the impression. When you pick it up, we check that it fits well, doesn't get in the way of breathing or speaking, and adjust it if needed.
- Step 4
Follow-up
A sports guard gets replaced when it's worn or when a child's mouth has changed. A night guard is checked at routine exams: the wear it absorbs tells us a lot about your grinding.
What it changes
- Lower risk of broken teeth, cut lips and jaw injuries
- A precise fit: it stays put without having to clench
- At night: less wear, sensitivity and jaw soreness in the morning
- Protection that lasts several seasons with proper care
Frequently asked questions
Boil-and-bite models are better than nothing, but they're bulky, fit poorly and often get in the way of breathing — so kids take them out. A custom guard is thinner, more comfortable and stays in place when it counts.
Often, yes, as long as teeth are coming in or falling out. We check it at every exam: if it no longer fits well or has a hole in it, it's time to replace it.
Often, a partner hears it first. Otherwise, the clues are a stiff or tired jaw on waking, morning headaches, and teeth that are sensitive or visibly worn. The dentist can see the wear marks at the exam, even if you don't feel anything.
Rinse it with cold water after each use and brush it gently with mild soap — no abrasive toothpaste or hot water, which warp it. Store it in its vented case, out of the dog's reach. Bring it to your appointments: we'll check its condition.