All about sports guards
Sports guards don’t just protect your teeth. They also protect braces and fixed dental appliances (like bridges and dental implants) and protect the inside of your cheeks and lips from your braces in the event of an accident. A sports guard is a wise investment for anyone participating in activities and sports which involve falls, body contact or flying equipment. Any sports guard is better than no sports guard, but nothing beats a guard made by your dental team and personalized for your mouth and teeth.So what are your options?
Stock Sports Guards
These come pre-formed and ready to wear and are available where sporting goods are sold. They often don’t fit very well, can feel bulky in your mouth and make breathing or talking difficult. Athletes often find themselves distracted by this appliance, and take it out or play with it while the game is on.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
These come in a kit with instructions. You boil the blank guard in water and then bite into the plastic to form the guard to your teeth. These are also available where sporting goods are sold and offer a better fit than stock guards, but this method isn’t for everyone. If your boil & bite guard is uncomfortable, bulky or makes it difficult to breathe or talk, consider a custom guard.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Are you surprised this is our favorite? Well with good reason! There is no substitute for an individualized, custom-made mouthguard. A sports guard made by us will offer the best protection and be the most comfortable. And in the unlikely event that it’s not comfortable? We are right here to make the adjustments and you can hold us accountable.
The cost of a custom sports guard in Knoxville
The out-of-pocket cost for a custom sports guard can vary widely from patient to patient. With a typical insurance plan, a mouth guard usually averages out to about $100 to $300+. Without insurance, a custom mouth guard costs between $150 to $350 and up.
- The type of material your guard is made of.
- Consideration for ongoing orthodontic treatment.
So why does the cost of a custom mouthguard vary? There are two major factors:
Remember, no dental practice can provide an accurate quote over the phone. Ultimately, your needs are as unique as your smile. It’s important to speak with a dentist and undergo an oral exam to find out all your treatment options and to receive an accurate quote. If you have dental insurance, we would be happy to supply you with a quote to submit to them so you can find out your out-of-pocket costs before you make a decision.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
