Comfortable, protective guards helping sports players to prevent broken teeth
If you’re a keen sports player – or you take part in any activity which puts your teeth at risk – we’d recommend that you protect them with a properly constructed sports guard unlike the “DIY” versions that you can purchase from shops.
Here at our Northampton practice we can take careful measurements so you can be fitted with a custom-made sports mouthguard to protect your teeth. By choosing a custom-made guard you can be sure of a comfortable fit – and, crucially, your breathing will never be impeded during play. You’ll also be able to remain confident that your sports guard will stay firmly in place throughout the action!
Don’t risk permanent damage to your teeth
How we make your custom mouthguard
Getting a custom mouthguard at our Northampton practice usually takes two short visits.
- We take an impression. Your dentist takes a quick, accurate mould of your teeth, or a digital scan. It takes a few minutes and there is nothing to it.
- Your guard is made to your bite. That mould is used to build a guard that follows the exact shape of your teeth and gums, in the thickness and colour you choose.
- We check the fit. You come back to collect it, we make sure it sits comfortably and stays put, and you walk out ready for your next match.
| Fit | Stock (ready-made) | Boil-and-bite | Custom (dentist-made) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fit | One-size, loose | Rough, moulded at home | Exact, taken from your teeth |
| Comfort | Bulky | Better than stock | Slim and comfortable |
| Stays in place | Often falls out | Can work loose | Stays put during play |
| Breathing & talking | Restricted | Some restriction | Easy |
| Protection | Basic | Moderate | Highest |
| Lifespan | Short | Short to medium | A few seasons with care |
Custom mouthguard vs shop-bought: what is the difference?
A custom sports guard costs more upfront than a cheap shop guard, but it protects far better and lasts longer, so most players find it the better value over time.
Mouthguards for braces and growing smiles
If you or your child wears braces and plays contact sport, a mouthguard matters even more. A knock can push a bracket into the lip or undo the orthodontic work you are paying for. We can make a guard designed to fit over braces and adjust it as treatment moves along. For younger players whose teeth are still coming through, we check the fit at each visit and remake the guard when they outgrow it.
Custom mouthguards in Northampton for every sport
A blow to the mouth during a match can crack a tooth, split a lip or knock a tooth clean out, and the repair often costs far more than the protection would have. A custom mouthguard made at our Northampton practice takes the guesswork out of staying safe. We take a precise impression of your teeth, so the finished guard has a close fit, lets you breathe and talk, and stays put when you take a hit.
Off-the-shelf and boil-and-bite guards from sports shops are bulky, work loose and often end up in the kit bag rather than the mouth. A dentist-made gum shield is built around your bite, which is why rugby, hockey, boxing and martial arts players across Northampton trust a custom-fitted guard over a shop-bought one. We make them for children and adults, in any colour you like.
Whether you play for a local club or your child has just started contact sport, a custom sports guard is one of the cheapest ways to avoid a painful, expensive dental injury. Call us on 01604 604545 to get fitted. And if you do take a knock mid-season, our emergency dentist team can usually see you the same day.
Get fitted for a custom sports mouthguard in Northampton
Protect your smile before the next match. Book an appointment at Cliftonville Dental and we will take an impression and make a custom mouthguard moulded to your teeth, in the colour of your choice.
Phone: 01604 604545 Book online: Book an appointment
Find us: 65 The Avenue, Cliftonville, Northampton, NN1 5BT
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm, plus one Saturday a month, so you can fit it around training.
Sports mouthguards in Northampton – Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get a custom sports mouthguard in Northampton?
We make custom mouthguards at our practice on The Avenue in Cliftonville, Northampton. Call 01604 604545 to book a short appointment, and we will take an impression of your teeth and have your guard ready to collect soon after.
What is the difference between a gum shield and a mouthguard?
They are two names for the same thing. A gum shield, mouthguard or sports guard all describe a moulded appliance that cushions your teeth and gums against impact. We use the terms interchangeably.
Are custom-made sports guards better than shop-bought ones?
Yes. A dentist-made guard is moulded to your exact bite, so it stays in place, feels comfortable and protects far better than a bulky stock or boil-and-bite guard. See the comparison above for the full picture.
Which sports should I wear a mouthguard for?
Any sport with a risk of contact or a flying ball or stick. That includes rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts, football, basketball, cricket and skateboarding. If there is a chance of a knock to the face, a mouthguard is worth wearing.
Can you make sports mouthguards for children?
Yes. We make guards for children and adults. As a child’s teeth are still coming through and their mouth is growing, we check the fit regularly and remake the guard when they outgrow it.
How much does a custom mouthguard cost?
The cost depends on the type of guard and the colour or finish you choose. You can see our current prices on the fees page, or call the practice and we will give you a quote before you book.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With good care, an adult guard can last a few seasons. Children usually need a new one sooner as their teeth change. Bring it to your check-ups and we will let you know when it needs replacing.
How do I clean and store my mouthguard?
Rinse it in cold water after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush. Keep it in its ventilated case, away from heat and direct sunlight, which can warp the material. Avoid hot water, as it can change the shape and ruin the fit.
Where can I get a custom sports mouthguard in Northampton?
We make custom mouthguards at our practice on The Avenue in Cliftonville, Northampton. Call 01604 604545 to book a short appointment, and we will take an impression of your teeth and have your guard ready to collect soon after.
What is the difference between a gum shield and a mouthguard?
They are two names for the same thing. A gum shield, mouthguard or sports guard all describe a moulded appliance that cushions your teeth and gums against impact. We use the terms interchangeably.
Are custom-made sports guards better than shop-bought ones?
Yes. A dentist-made guard is moulded to your exact bite, so it stays in place, feels comfortable and protects far better than a bulky stock or boil-and-bite guard. See the comparison above for the full picture.
Which sports should I wear a mouthguard for?
Any sport with a risk of contact or a flying ball or stick. That includes rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts, football, basketball, cricket and skateboarding. If there is a chance of a knock to the face, a mouthguard is worth wearing.
Can you make sports mouthguards for children?
Yes. We make guards for children and adults. As a child’s teeth are still coming through and their mouth is growing, we check the fit regularly and remake the guard when they outgrow it.
How much does a custom mouthguard cost?
The cost depends on the type of guard and the colour or finish you choose. You can see our current prices on the fees page, or call the practice and we will give you a quote before you book.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With good care, an adult guard can last a few seasons. Children usually need a new one sooner as their teeth change. Bring it to your check-ups and we will let you know when it needs replacing.
How do I clean and store my mouthguard?
Rinse it in cold water after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush. Keep it in its ventilated case, away from heat and direct sunlight, which can warp the material. Avoid hot water, as it can change the shape and ruin the fit.
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