A sports guard is a covering worn over teeth to protect them while playing contact sports and other physical activity. Generally, sports guards are worn on upper teeth only, but in some cases your dentist will recommend a guard for your lower teeth as well. There are many types of sports guards, but the most comfortable and effective sports guards are the ones custom fitted by your dentist.

Sports guards should be worn by every adult or child who plays a contact sport such as hockey, football, boxing, basketball, lacrosse and soccer. However, if you are participating in any sort of activity or sport that might pose a risk of injury to the teeth or mouth, you could benefit from wearing a sports guard. Accidents are common during physical activity, so wearing a sports guard helps to limit the risk of mouth-related injuries. These guards help prevent chipped and broken teeth, nerve damage and even tooth loss.