Custom Sports Mouth Guards in Golden, CO

Why a Custom-Fitted Sports Guard Makes a Difference

A sports guard that moves or falls out can actually increase your risk of injury. A custom guard from your dentist stays in place, absorbs impact evenly, and lets you breathe and speak naturally. The difference matters every time you step on the field or court.

Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards

Here is how the options compare:

Feature	Custom Dental Guard	Boil-and-Bite / Stock Guard
Fit & Retention	Molds precisely to your teeth; stays in place during movement	Gaps shift during play; may slip or fall out
Protection Level	Thick, consistent material absorbs high impact	Thin spots and poor fit reduce protection
Comfort During Play	Worn without interfering with breathing or talking	Bulky edges can irritate gums and cheeks
Speech Clarity	Minimal effect; you can speak clearly	Muffles speech; athletes often remove it to communicate
Durability	Crack-resistant; lasts years with care	Wears out quickly; needs frequent replacement
Covered by Insurance	Often covered (especially for kids)	Typically not eligible for insurance benefits

If you or your child is active in sports, a custom guard is an investment in long-term dental health.

Who Needs a Sports Guard? (More Sports Than You’d Think)

Football, basketball, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, baseball, martial arts, mountain biking, and even skateboarding all carry risk of dental injury. At Colorado Dental Spa, we fit guards for athletes of all ages — from young kids just starting family dentistry to weekend warriors and competitive teens. Even non-contact sports like gymnastics or trail running can lead to falls that chip teeth. If you are active, you need protection.

Benefits of Protecting Your Smile During Play

A properly fitted sports guard prevents cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, and soft-tissue injuries. It also reduces the severity of impacts that can lead to jaw fractures and concussions. By investing in a custom guard, you avoid costly emergency dentistry visits and keep your smile looking great. Plus, you can focus on your game instead of worrying about your mouth.

What to Expect at Your Sports Guard Appointment

Your appointment is part of our Specialty and Advanced Services offering. We start by taking a digital impression of your teeth with our iTero scanner — no goopy material needed. Then we design and fabricate a guard that fits your mouth exactly. We will have you try it in to check the fit and make small adjustments. The whole process is quick and comfortable, and your guard will be ready within a few days.

Sports Guards vs. Night Guards — Understanding the Difference

Sports guards are designed to protect teeth from impact during activity. Night guards are made for people who grind or clench their teeth while sleeping. They have different materials and shapes because they serve different purposes. If you grind your teeth at night, you may need a separate guard. Learn more on our TMJ and Bruxism treatment page to find the right solution for you.