Calgary summers are packed with soccer, lacrosse, baseball, mountain biking and skateboarding, and hockey season is never far behind. All that action is great for kids and adults alike, but it also puts teeth at risk. Custom mouthguards in Calgary are one of the simplest ways to protect a smile, and at Evolution Dental we make them for athletes of every age.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries. A hit to the face can chip, crack or knock out a tooth, cut the lips and cheeks, or jar the jaw. Repairing that damage can mean crowns, a root canal or even an implant down the road.
A well-fitted mouthguard spreads the force of an impact and cushions the teeth and soft tissues. It is a small piece of gear that can save a lot of stress later.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
There are three main types of mouthguards:
- Stock guards come ready to wear. They are inexpensive but often bulky and loose.
- Boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and shaped at home. They fit better than stock guards but can be uneven or too thin in key spots.
- Custom guards are made from an impression or scan of your teeth. They fit snugly, stay in place and are designed with even thickness.
The biggest difference is comfort. Athletes who find their guard bulky or hard to breathe through often stop wearing it. A custom guard is easier to talk and breathe in, so it is more likely to stay in during the game.
Custom Mouthguards in Calgary for Growing Kids
Children’s mouths change quickly as baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in. A guard that fit in spring may not fit by fall. During your child’s visit with our dentist for children, we check whether their guard still fits well and suggest when to replace it.
If your child wears braces or clear aligners, let us know. Orthodontic patients need guards designed around their treatment.
How We Make a Custom Mouthguard
- Quick exam. We check the teeth and bite.
- Impression or scan. We capture an accurate model of the teeth.
- Fabrication. The guard is made to match your mouth and your sport.
- Fitting. We check comfort, retention and breathing room, then adjust as needed.
Many families like to pick a colour, which makes it easier for kids to find their own guard in a crowded gear bag.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
- Rinse it before and after each use
- Clean it with a soft toothbrush and cool water (hot water can warp it)
- Store it in a vented case
- Keep it out of hot cars and away from pets
- Bring it to your dental checkups so we can look for wear
What to Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root. Rinse gently if dirty, try to place it back in the socket, or store it in milk. Then call a dentist right away. Fast action gives the best chance of saving the tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sports need a mouthguard? Any sport with contact, falls or flying objects: hockey, football, rugby, lacrosse, basketball, soccer, martial arts, biking and skateboarding.
How often should a mouthguard be replaced? Adults can often use one for a season or longer. Children usually need a new one more often as their teeth change.
Is a sports guard the same as a night guard? No. A night guard for grinding is designed differently. If you grind at night, ask us about teeth grinding appliances.
Book a Mouthguard Fitting in Calgary
Get your family’s smiles game-ready before the next season starts. Call Evolution Dental at (403) 208-9965 or book online. We are your family dentist in Crowfoot, serving all of Calgary.
