Sports can be hard on teeth, especially when contact, falls or fast-moving equipment are involved. At The Dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Kirian provides custom sports mouth guards for athletes in Newark, Ohio, who want reliable protection for their teeth, gums, lips and jaw during practices and games.
A properly fitted mouth guard can help reduce the risk of broken teeth, soft tissue injuries and damage to dental work. To schedule a custom mouth guard appointment with our dentist, call 740-366-1236.
Protect Your Smile During Sports
A sports mouth guard is a protective oral appliance worn over the teeth during athletic activity. It helps cushion impact and reduce the risk of injuries to the teeth, gums, cheeks, lips and jaw.
Mouth guards are often recommended for contact sports, but they can also benefit athletes in activities where falls, collisions or equipment-related injuries are possible. A custom sports mouth guard is made to fit your teeth closely, which helps it stay in place and feel more comfortable during activity.
Who Should Wear a Sports Mouth Guard?
Sports mouth guards are recommended for athletes of many ages and skill levels. They are especially important for children and teens whose permanent teeth are still developing and for adults who want to protect their natural teeth or dental restorations.
A mouth guard may be helpful for athletes who participate in:
- Football
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Baseball or softball
- Wrestling
- Martial arts
- Skateboarding, biking or other activities with fall risks
Benefits of a Custom Sports Mouth Guard
Store-bought mouth guards can be bulky, loose or uncomfortable, which may make athletes less likely to wear them consistently. A custom mouth guard is designed around your teeth and bite for better protection and comfort.
- Better fit: A custom guard is made from impressions or digital records of your teeth.
- Improved comfort: A secure fit can make the guard easier to wear during practices and games.
- Stronger protection: Custom guards help cushion impact and protect teeth, gums and soft tissues.
- Easier breathing and speaking: A well-fitted guard is less likely to interfere with communication or performance.
- Protection for dental work: Mouth guards can help protect crowns, fillings, veneers and orthodontic appliances.
Custom Mouth Guards vs. Store-Bought Options
Boil-and-bite and stock mouth guards may offer some protection, but they often do not fit as securely as a custom appliance. A loose guard can shift during activity, feel uncomfortable or make it harder to breathe and speak.
Custom sports mouth guards are made specifically for your mouth. This helps improve fit, durability and consistency of use, which is important because a mouth guard only works when it is worn.
What to Expect When Getting a Sports Mouth Guard
The process begins with a visit to evaluate your teeth, bite and athletic needs. Our team will take impressions or digital records of your teeth so your mouth guard can be made to fit comfortably and securely.
When your mouth guard is ready, Dr. Kirian will check the fit and make any needed adjustments. We will also explain how to wear, clean and store your guard so it stays in good condition throughout the season.
Sports Mouth Guards for Braces
Athletes with braces or orthodontic appliances need extra protection during sports. A blow to the mouth can damage brackets or wires and may injure the lips, cheeks or gums.
Our team can discuss mouth guard options designed to protect both the teeth and orthodontic appliances. If teeth are actively moving, the mouth guard may need to be checked or replaced more often to maintain a proper fit.
How to Care for Your Sports Mouth Guard
Good care helps your mouth guard stay clean, comfortable and effective. After each use, rinse it with cool water and allow it to dry before placing it in its case.
- Rinse your mouth guard after every use
- Clean it regularly with mild soap and cool water
- Avoid hot water, which can warp the material
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Keep it away from pets
- Bring it to dental visits so our team can check the fit and condition
Why Choose The Dentist for Sports Mouth Guards?
A protective mouth guard should fit well, feel comfortable and match the needs of the athlete. Dr. Kirian earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry after completing his bachelor’s degree at Capital University. During his time at OSU, he had the honor of serving as one of two team dentists for the athletic department.
He is a member of the American Dental Association®, Ohio Dental Association, Knox-Licking County Dental Association, Ohio State University Dental Alumni Association and Central Ohio Dental Forum, part of the Seattle Study Club. He has been named to Top Dentists of Central Ohio each year since 2012 and completes many hours of continuing education to stay current with changing dental techniques and technology.
Patients and families in Newark, OH, can expect practical guidance, custom-fit appliances and prevention-focused care designed to help protect smiles on and off the field.
Related Services
Sports mouth guards are part of a preventive approach to protecting your smile. Depending on your needs, you may also want to learn more about:
Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Mouth Guards
Why do athletes need sports mouth guards?
Sports mouth guards help protect teeth, gums, lips and the jaw from injuries caused by impact, falls or collisions during athletic activity.
Is a custom mouth guard better than a store-bought mouth guard?
For many athletes, yes. A custom mouth guard is made to fit your teeth and bite, which can improve comfort, protection and consistency of use.
Can I wear a sports mouth guard with braces?
Yes. Athletes with braces should wear a mouth guard during sports. Our team can recommend an option that helps protect the teeth, brackets, wires and soft tissues.
How often should I replace a sports mouth guard?
Replacement depends on growth, wear and fit. Children and teens may need replacements more often as their mouths change, while adults should replace guards that become worn, loose or damaged.
How do I clean my sports mouth guard?
Rinse it after each use and clean it regularly with mild soap and cool water. Avoid hot water because it can distort the material and affect the fit.
Can a mouth guard prevent every dental injury?
No mouth guard can prevent every injury, but a properly fitted sports mouth guard can significantly reduce the risk of damage to the teeth, gums and soft tissues during sports.
Schedule a Custom Sports Mouth Guard Appointment
If you or your child plays sports, a custom mouth guard can help protect your smile from injury. Call 740-366-1236 today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Newark, Ohio.