Preventive care
Sports Guards in Denham Springs, LA
A sports guard helps cushion the teeth, lips, cheeks, and jaw during activities where a fall, collision, or fast-moving object could cause an oral injury. We can help families in Denham Springs, Walker, Watson, and Livingston Parish discuss a protective option suited to the athlete and sport.
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Protection for active smiles
A small piece of equipment can help reduce oral injury
Contact and collision sports carry an obvious risk, but dental injuries can also happen in activities such as soccer, basketball, baseball, gymnastics, skating, cycling, and other high-velocity recreation. A properly fitted mouthguard holds a resilient protective surface over the teeth and helps shield the lips and cheeks from impact. It reduces risk; it cannot prevent every injury.
The American Dental Association recommends a properly fitted athletic mouthguard for sports and recreation with a meaningful risk of dental or facial injury. A guard should stay in place comfortably and securely while allowing the athlete to breathe and speak.
Fitted protection
Ask about a guard that adapts to the athlete’s mouth rather than relying on a loose, generic fit. The right choice depends on the mouth, age, sport, and any orthodontic or restorative considerations.
For growing athletes
Children and teens may need their fit reviewed as teeth, jaws, and orthodontic appliances change. Bring the current guard to visits so the team can discuss whether it still fits as intended.
Options and candidacy
The best option depends on the person, not just the sport
Store-bought mouthguards generally fall into stock and boil-and-bite categories. Stock guards are ready-made and least adaptable. Boil-and-bite guards mold at home according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A dental-office or laboratory-made custom guard is created from an individual impression and offers more opportunity for a precise, secure fit, though it requires a dental visit and may cost more.
A consultation is especially useful if the athlete has braces, a changing bite, missing or recently restored teeth, jaw concerns, or trouble keeping a guard in place. We will review the situation and explain what is appropriate. A sports guard is protective equipment, not treatment for a dental injury or a substitute for a helmet, faceguard, or other required safety gear.
What to expect
Plan ahead, then keep the guard clean and ready
Call to discuss the sport, the athlete’s age, the start of the season, and any dental or orthodontic details. Our team can explain whether an appointment is needed, what type of guard may fit the situation, and the current next steps. If a fitted guard is recommended, follow the care and fitting instructions provided for that device.
After use, rinse the mouthguard with cool water and let it air-dry before storing it in a ventilated case. Keep it away from heat, pets, and sharp objects. Do not chew on it. Check regularly for tears, distortion, odor, or a loose fit, and bring it to dental visits. Replace it when it no longer fits or is damaged; growing athletes may need reassessment sooner.
Planning care
Ask for a current estimate before you decide
The cost of a sports guard depends on the option recommended and the work needed to fit it. Call our office for an individualized sports-guard estimate and payment information. Insurance benefits and financing terms vary by plan and provider. Our team will review your options before treatment.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, CareCredit, Cherry Payment Plans, and payment plans. We also offer an in-house Discount Dental Plan (not dental insurance). Call (225) 665-2417 before treatment to discuss the current options.
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A little clarity helps
Sports Guards: Your Questions, Answered.
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Bring your questions—we’ll help you understand what fits your smile.
Does every athlete need a sports guard?
A dentist can help you weigh the sport, level of contact or speed, the athlete’s mouth, and other protective equipment. The ADA recommends properly fitted mouthguards for activities with a meaningful risk of dental or facial injury. A guard lowers risk but does not guarantee that an injury will not occur.
Is a stock or boil-and-bite guard enough?
It may be appropriate for some people, but stock guards are made in limited sizes and may not stay in place well. Boil-and-bite guards must be molded carefully according to the manufacturer’s directions. Ask us whether a dental-office or laboratory-made option is more suitable for the athlete’s fit and needs.
Can an athlete with braces wear a sports guard?
Often, a mouthguard requires special consideration when braces or other orthodontic appliances are present. Do not trim or heat a guard without guidance. Tell the dental team about the appliance so they can discuss an appropriate option and when the fit should be checked.
How do I know when to replace a sports guard?
Replace it when it is torn, distorted, damaged, or no longer stays in place. Children and teens may outgrow a guard as their teeth and jaws change. Bring it to a dental visit if you are unsure about its condition or fit.
What should I do after a sports-related mouth injury?
Call us at (225) 665-2417 for guidance after a dental injury. A knocked-out or broken tooth needs prompt attention. If there is severe swelling or trouble breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical help immediately rather than waiting for a dental appointment.
Explore related care.
Your next step can be simple
Ask about Sports Guards.
Our team can help you plan a visit, explain what to bring, and answer scheduling questions. Call to start a conversation—without needing to choose a treatment first.
Call (225) 665-2417Close to home. Easy to reach.
Your dental home in Denham Springs.
Whether you live in Denham Springs, Walker, Watson, or elsewhere in Livingston Parish, you’ll find our team at one convenient office—with extended weekday hours.
130 N. Hummell StreetDenham Springs, LA 70726Get Directions
| Monday – Thursday | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Friday | 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | Closed |