Athletes know the value of proper equipment, from helmets to footwear to training gear. But there’s one piece of protection that is often overlooked, even though it can prevent serious dental injuries: a custom sports guard. At Selkirk Crossing Dental, we see firsthand how effective a well-made sports guard can be in protecting the smiles of all ages, from young athletes to active adults.
Whether you play high-intensity contact sports or participate in activities that seem low-risk, the truth is simple: any athlete can benefit from wearing a sports guard, and many dental injuries occur during moments when people least expect them.
Here are the top five reasons every athlete should wear a sports guard, even for non-contact sports and why investing in a custom-made one from your Selkirk dentist is an important part of staying safe and protecting your smile.
Why Sports Guards Matter for Every Athlete
A sports guard (also called a mouthguard) is a flexible, protective device worn over the teeth during physical activity. Unlike store-bought boil-and-bite guards, a custom sports guard is designed from precise dental impressions to fit your mouth comfortably and securely.
While sports guards are commonly associated with contact sports like hockey, football, or martial arts, dental professionals now recommend them for many recreational and non-contact activities as well, especially those with any risk of falls, collisions, or sudden impacts.
1. Preventing Broken, Chipped, or Knocked-Out Teeth
Dental injuries can happen in the blink of an eye. A sudden fall, an unexpected elbow, or even a flying object can cause serious damage, including:
Chipped or fractured teeth
Loose or knocked-out teeth
Damaged dental restorations
Soft tissue injuries to the lips, tongue, and cheeks
Even non-contact sports like basketball, baseball, gymnastics, skateboarding, and cycling have high rates of dental trauma because falls and collisions are common.
A well-fitted sports guard absorbs and distributes the force of impact, significantly reducing the likelihood of injury. This saves athletes from emergency dental visits, long recovery times, and costly restorative treatments.
2. Protecting Orthodontic Treatments and Restorations
For athletes wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances, a sports guard is essential. A blow to the face can cause:
Cuts and injuries from brackets and wires
Damaged brackets requiring repair
Setbacks in orthodontic progress
A custom sports guard provides a smooth barrier between the orthodontic appliance and the soft tissues in the mouth. It also protects dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, which are more delicate than natural teeth.
At Selkirk Crossing Dental, we can create sports guards specifically designed for orthodontic patients, offering added space and protection where needed.
3. Reducing the Risk of Jaw Injuries
Many people don’t realize that a sports guard does more than protect teeth — it can also help reduce the impact on the jaw. When an athlete receives a blow to the chin or face, the shock can travel through the jaw, leading to:
Jaw joint injuries (TMJ issues)
Fractures
Soft tissue damage
Concussions in certain situations
Custom sports guards help cushion the jaw and limit excessive force. While not a replacement for concussion gear, they add an extra layer of protection for athletes of all ages.
4. Enhancing Athletic Performance and Confidence
Athletes perform better when they feel confident and prepared. Wearing a comfortable, well-fitted sports guard can:
Improve breathing compared to bulky store-bought guards
Stay secure during movement
Reduce distractions
Provide peace of mind
When athletes trust that their smile is protected, they can focus fully on their performance — not on whether a sudden mishap might cause an injury.
Many high-level athletes now consider mouthguards an essential part of their equipment because they know they enhance both safety and comfort.
5. Cost-Effective Protection Against Serious Injuries
Dental injuries can be expensive and complicated to repair. Emergency treatments, root canals, crowns, extractions, and replacements can add up quickly — and often involve multiple visits.
A custom sports guard is a simple, affordable solution that provides significant long-term protection. Compared to the cost and stress of repairing injuries, a professionally made sports guard is a smart investment for any athlete who wants to preserve their oral health.
At Selkirk Crossing Dental, our custom sports guards are built for durability, comfort, and optimal protection. They’re designed to last and withstand the wear and tear of athletic activity.
Why Custom Sports Guards Are Better Than Store-Bought Options
While store-bought sports guards are commonly used, they often lack the fit, comfort, and protection needed for intense or frequent activity. Custom sports guards offer major advantages, including:
Precise fit tailored to your teeth and bite
More comfortable and breathable wear
Better shock absorption
Greater durability
Protection for orthodontic appliances
Because they stay securely in place, athletes are more likely to wear them consistently and that consistency is key to avoiding injuries.
Sports Guards Aren’t Just for Contact Sports
Many dental injuries happen during activities people don’t associate with high risk. Sports and hobbies that benefit from a sports guard include:
Basketball
Soccer
Volleyball
Gymnastics
Mountain biking
Skateboarding
Baseball and softball
Boxing or martial arts
Hiking and outdoor recreation
Whether you're a competitive athlete, a weekend jogger, or someone who enjoys recreational sports, a sports guard helps protect your smile from unexpected accidents.
Protect Your Smile with Selkirk Crossing Dental
At Selkirk Crossing Dental, your safety and long-term oral health are our priorities. Our custom sports guards are designed with precision, comfort, and durability in mind, ensuring you or your child can stay active with confidence.
If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Selkirk, our team is here to help you protect your smile both on and off the field.
Stay in the Game Safely
Don’t wait for a dental injury to remind you of the importance of protection. Whether you're playing competitive sports or enjoying active hobbies, a custom sports guard is one of the best ways to prevent serious damage.
Contact Selkirk Crossing Dental today to book an appointment with your trusted Selkirk dentist. We’ll help you choose the right sports guard to fit your needs and keep your smile safe, strong, and ready for every game.
Protect your teeth today, play with confidence tomorrow.