Mouth guards are removable appliances that fit over your teeth to protect them from impact or from the effects of grinding and clenching. We offer custom-made guards that are more comfortable and effective than shop-bought boil-and-bite versions. There are two main types: sports mouth guards, which protect your teeth, lips, and jaw during contact or impact sports (e.g. rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts), and night guards (bruxism guards), which are worn while you sleep to cushion your teeth and jaw if you grind or clench—reducing wear, headaches, and jaw pain.
At Brown Street Dental, Dr. Sunny Golwala and our team take impressions (or digital scans) of your teeth and have your guard made to fit precisely. A custom guard stays in place better, is easier to breathe and speak with, and offers superior protection. We will advise whether you need a sports guard, a night guard, or both, and explain how to look after your guard so it lasts. Our goal is to help you protect your smile and your jaw with a guard that you will actually wear.
The Process
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Assessment & Choice of Guard
We will:
- Discuss why you need a guard—sports protection, grinding at night, or both
- Examine your teeth and bite to ensure a guard is appropriate and to plan the design
- Explain the difference between sports guards and night guards and recommend the right type
- Answer your questions about fit, comfort, and care
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Impressions or Scan
To make your custom guard:
- We take an impression of your teeth (with a soft material in a tray) or use a digital scan
- This captures the exact shape of your teeth so the lab can fabricate a guard that fits closely
- The process is quick and comfortable
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Fabrication
Your guard is:
- Made in a dental laboratory from your impression or scan
- Designed for your intended use (sports: impact-resistant; night: durable and comfortable for grinding)
- Usually ready within a week or two; we will tell you when to return for fitting
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Fitting & Care Advice
At your fitting we will:
- Check the guard fits comfortably and stays in place when you bite or move
- Make small adjustments if needed
- Show you how to insert, remove, and clean it (e.g. cool water, mild soap, storage case)
- Advise on when to replace it (e.g. wear, growth in children, damage)
Benefits of Custom Mouth Guards
Why a professionally made guard is worth it
- ✓Better fit and comfort than shop-bought boil-and-bite guards—you are more likely to wear it
- ✓Superior protection for teeth, lips, and jaw during sports
- ✓Night guards reduce tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches from grinding and clenching
- ✓Easier to breathe and speak with—custom design avoids bulk
- ✓Durable and long-lasting with proper care
- ✓Available for adults and children (sports guards may need replacing as kids grow)
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the difference between a sports mouth guard and a night guard?A sports mouth guard is designed to absorb impact and protect your teeth and soft tissues during contact or impact sports. A night guard is worn while sleeping to cushion your teeth and jaw from grinding (bruxism) and clenching—it is usually thinner and tailored for long-term wear. Some people need both: one for sport, one for sleep.
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Why choose a custom guard over a shop-bought one?Custom guards are made from an impression or scan of your teeth, so they fit precisely. They stay in place better, are more comfortable, and offer better protection. Boil-and-bite guards can be bulky and may not fit well, so people often stop wearing them. A custom guard is an investment in comfort and protection.
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How long does a mouth guard last?With proper care, a custom guard often lasts several years. Sports guards may need replacing sooner if they take a lot of impact or if a child’s mouth is still growing. Night guards can wear down over time from grinding; we will check them at your checkups and advise when to replace.
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How do I look after my mouth guard?Rinse it after use, clean it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not toothpaste, which can scratch), and store it in a vented case when not in use. Keep it away from heat and don’t leave it in direct sunlight. Bring it to your checkups so we can check the fit and condition.
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I grind my teeth at night—will a night guard help?Yes. A night guard creates a cushion between your upper and lower teeth so the forces of grinding are absorbed by the guard rather than your teeth. This reduces wear, chipping, and often eases jaw pain and headaches. We can assess your bite and recommend the right type of night guard for you.
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Can children have custom mouth guards for sport?Yes. Custom sports guards are suitable for children and often recommended for contact sports. Because children’s mouths change as they grow, the guard may need to be replaced every year or so. We will advise on timing at the fitting and at checkups.
Need a sports mouth guard or a night guard for grinding? Contact Brown Street Dental to book an appointment.