Sports mouth guards in Los Angeles, CA
Sports mouth guards in Los Angeles, CA help protect teeth, lips, cheeks, and jaws during contact and high-impact activities. At Leith K Shawaf DDS, patients receive clear guidance on whether a custom sports mouth guard is appropriate for their sport, age, and risk level. This page outlines types, benefits, and what to expect so you can choose protection that fits well and performs when it matters.
Sports mouth guards explained
A sports mouth guard is a resilient oral appliance worn over the upper teeth to cushion blows and spread impact forces. It is recommended for sports with contact or collision risk, including football, basketball, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, martial arts, and skateboarding. It is also helpful for non-contact sports where falls are common.
There are three main categories:
- Stock mouth guards are ready-made and the least expensive, but they often fit poorly and can feel bulky.
- Boil-and-bite mouth guards are softened in hot water and molded at home, offering better adaptation than stock options.
- Custom sports mouth guards are designed from dental impressions or scans for precise fit, comfort, and consistent thickness where protection is needed most.
Thickness and design can be tailored for the athlete’s age, sport, and position. Athletes with braces can wear a guard designed to cover braces brackets and wires without impeding tooth movement.
How a mouth guard helps
A well-made guard creates a protective layer between the teeth and soft tissues and spreads energy from a hit across a wider area. This reduces the chance of chipped or broken teeth, cuts to the lips and cheeks, and some jaw injuries. Some research suggests mouth guards may lower concussion risk, though they are primarily intended to protect the mouth and face.
- Custom-fitting improves retention, so the guard stays in place during fast movements.
- Balanced thickness cushions blows without feeling overly bulky.
- Smoother edges and a precise trim line reduce irritation to gums and cheeks.
- Clear airflow and speech are easier when the guard is shaped to your bite.
The mouth guard process
The visit for a custom guard is straightforward and comfortable.
- Consultation and sport review: The team notes your sport, position, and any orthodontic appliances, then recommends material and thickness.
- Impressions or scans: A digital scan or traditional impression records your exact bite for an accurate fit.
- Laboratory fabrication: The guard is vacuum- or pressure-formed from durable, shock-absorbing material and finished with smooth edges.
- Fitting and adjustments: The guard is checked for retention, comfort, and even contact, with minor refinements as needed.
- Care instructions: You receive cleaning, storage, and replacement guidance to keep performance high.
What to expect
Most athletes adapt to a new guard within a few practices. Speech and breathing feel natural when the device is trimmed properly. Rinsing before and after use, brushing it gently with a soft toothbrush, and storing it in a ventilated case helps control odor and bacteria. Cool water is best for cleaning because heat can warp the material. Guards should be replaced if they become loose, show cracks or tears, start to thin in high-wear areas, or no longer fit due to growth or orthodontic changes.
Do not use a night guard for sports. A night guard is designed to protect teeth from grinding during sleep and does not provide the same impact distribution as a sports mouth guard. If you grind your teeth and also play sports, separate devices are recommended.
Choosing the right option
For growing athletes or casual play, a well-molded boil-and-bite option can be a reasonable start. For league play, braces, contact positions, or a history of dental injuries, a custom sports mouth guard offers the best combination of fit, protection, and durability. Asking about material thickness, breathability, and how the guard interacts with your bite can help you make an informed choice.