Sports protection · Lewes, DE
Mouthguards for game day.
Injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries athletes get. Whether or not you wear braces, a mouthguard protects your teeth and gums while you play.
Wear braces or a retainer? A mouthguard is a must ·Get directions
The ADA recommends one for
If you play any of these, the American Dental Association recommends wearing a mouthguard.
- Basketball
- Boxing
- Hockey
- Football
- Gymnastics
- Lacrosse
- Martial arts
- Racquetball
- Rugby
- Track & field
- Skateboarding
- Skiing & snowboarding
- Skydiving
- Soccer
- Surfing
- Volleyball
- Water polo
- Weightlifting
- Wrestling
Surfing made the list. So did skateboarding and water polo. It’s not only for contact sports.
Types of mouthguards
Three kinds of guard. One that’s made for you.
Choosing the right mouthguard matters. Here are the three basic types, and what to look for in any of them.
One size, ready to wear
Pre-made
Bought off the shelf and worn as is. The simplest option, but it isn’t shaped to your teeth.
Softened, then shaped at home
Boil-and-bite
Softened in hot water, then bitten into so it takes on a rough impression of your teeth.
Made from your own teeth
Custom-made
Made by your dentist to fit your mouth. If you wear braces, we design it to protect your teeth and your braces.
Made here at The Dental Group
Whichever you choose, make sure it’s:
Not sure? We’ll show you how to choose and wear one properly.
- Tear-resistant
- Well fitted to your mouth
- Easy to keep clean
- Lets you breathe properly
Taking care of your mouthguard
Keep it clean, keep it fitting.
Like a retainer or any other dental appliance, a mouthguard only protects you if it’s stored properly, kept clean and replaced when it wears out.
Scrub it after every use
Gently clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Store it in a case
A protective case keeps it clean and in shape.
Keep it out of the heat
Sun or hot water can melt or deform it. Don’t leave it on the dashboard or the beach.
Replace it each season
Start every new sports season with a new one, or sooner if it’s worn or no longer fits.
No retainer underneath
Don’t wear a retainer with your mouthguard.
Don’t chew or trim it
Chewing on it or cutting pieces off weakens the protection.
Bring it to checkups
We’ll make sure it’s still in good shape.
Go team!
Ask about mouthguards at your next checkup.
Related care
More ways to protect your smile.
Emergency dental care
Knocked-out or broken tooth on the field? Call us first.
Occlusal guards
A night guard to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching.
Dental exams & cleanings
Bring your mouthguard along and we’ll check it at your visit.
Orthodontic treatment
Wear braces? We’ll design a guard that protects them too.
Dental crowns
Restores a chipped or cracked tooth to full strength.
Common questions
Mouthguard FAQ
Have another question about mouthguards? Call us and we’ll be glad to help.
- Who should wear a mouthguard?
- Anyone who plays a contact or high-risk sport. The American Dental Association recommends a mouthguard for sports including basketball, football, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, surfing, skateboarding, wrestling and many more.
- Do I need a mouthguard if I wear braces?
- Yes. If you wear braces or a retainer, it’s especially important to wear a mouthguard. Your dentist will help design one that protects both your teeth and your braces.
- What’s the difference between the three types?
- Pre-made mouthguards are ready to wear, boil-and-bite guards are softened and shaped at home, and custom-made guards are made by your dentist to fit your mouth.
- How do I choose the right mouthguard?
- Pick one that’s tear-resistant, well fitted to your mouth, easy to keep clean, and doesn’t keep you from breathing properly. Your dentist can help you choose and show you how to wear it.
- How often should I replace my mouthguard?
- At the start of every new sports season, or sooner if it becomes worn or no longer fits properly.
- Is a sports mouthguard the same as a night guard?
- No. A sports mouthguard protects against injury during play. An occlusal guard, or night guard, protects your teeth from grinding and clenching while you sleep.
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New season coming up?
Call our team at Carpenter’s Crossing in Lewes and ask about a mouthguard that fits.
Visit us
We look forward to meeting you.
Always accepting new patients from Lewes and the surrounding communities. We’ll work with you to schedule appointments that fit your life.
Dental emergency?
Don’t wait for it to get better on its own. Call us right away and we’ll fit you in.
- Address
- 34359 Carpenter’s Way
Lewes, DE 19958 - Office hours
Monday – Thursday 7:00am – 5:30pm Friday 7:00am – 4:00pm Saturday & Sunday Closed