Custom Sport Guards in South Philadelphia

Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries — and among the most preventable. A collision, fall, or impact to the face can chip, crack, or knock out teeth, injure gums and soft tissues, and even cause jaw fractures. A properly fitted custom sport guard from Pera Dentistry & Aesthetics is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your smile when you’re active.

Whether you’re playing organized contact sports, recreational activities, or working out in ways that carry collision risk, a custom sport guard offers significantly better protection than anything available at a pharmacy or sporting goods store.

Who Should Wear a Sport Guard?

The American Dental Association recommends sport guards for anyone participating in activities with risk of collision, contact, or falls. This includes:

Football, hockey, lacrosse, and rugby
Basketball and soccer
Baseball, softball, and volleyball
Martial arts and boxing
Gymnastics, skateboarding, and cycling
Any recreational sport with collision or impact risk

Why Custom Sport Guards Are Worth It

Superior Fit and Protection

Custom sport guards are made from an impression of your actual teeth, so they fit precisely and stay in place during activity. A guard that fits properly is more effective at absorbing and distributing impact forces — protecting not just your teeth, but also your jaw and jaw joint.

Better Comfort = Greater Compliance

Over-the-counter guards are notoriously uncomfortable. They’re bulky, affect your ability to breathe and speak, and many athletes end up not wearing them because of the discomfort. Custom guards are thinner, more comfortable, and far less intrusive — which means you’ll actually wear them.

Longer Lasting

Custom sport guards are made from higher-quality materials than stock or boil-and-bite guards and are designed to withstand the rigors of athletic activity. With proper care, they typically last several seasons.

The Sport Guard Process

We take a quick impression of your teeth at a routine or dedicated appointment
Your custom guard is fabricated to your exact specifications
You return for a fitting and comfort check
Guards can be made in a variety of colors and even with team colors on request

Sport Guards for Kids and Adults

We fit sport guards for athletes of all ages. For children who are still growing, we recommend periodic refitting as their teeth and jaw change. This ensures the guard continues to fit correctly and provide full protection

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Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Sport Guards

Are custom sport guards really better than store-bought ones?

Yes — significantly. Research consistently shows that custom-fitted guards provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter options. They fit precisely, stay in place during impact, don’t restrict breathing, and allow for normal speech. Store-bought guards are a one-size-fits-most compromise that often goes unworn because of discomfort. If you’re serious about protecting your teeth, a custom guard is the right choice.

Can I still breathe and talk with a sport guard in?

Yes. Custom sport guards are designed to be as thin as clinically possible while still providing protection, and they’re shaped precisely to your teeth rather than creating unnecessary bulk. Most athletes adapt quickly and find they can breathe, speak, and perform normally with a well-fitted custom guard.

How do I care for my sport guard?

Rinse your guard with cool water before and after each use. Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap — avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Store it in its provided case when not in use, and keep it away from pets (they tend to find guards irresistible). Bring it to your dental appointments so we can check it for wear and fit.

My child is still losing baby teeth — should they get a sport guard?

For young children who are still actively losing teeth and whose permanent teeth are still erupting, a standard custom guard may not be ideal since the fit changes rapidly. We can advise you on the best approach based on your child’s age and stage of dental development. In general, once most permanent teeth are in place, a custom guard becomes a worthwhile investment.

Does dental insurance cover sport guards?

Coverage for sport guards varies by plan. Some plans include them as a covered benefit, others don’t. We’ll check your benefits before your appointment and let you know what to expect. Custom sport guards are a relatively modest investment compared to the cost of treating a dental injury — which is rarely fully covered by insurance.

Ready to restore your smile?

Located at 1627 S Broad St, South Philadelphia. Coming soon to Haddonfield, NJ. Quick turnaround available for athletes who need a guard before a season starts.