Sports Guards
London
Protect your teeth during sports with a custom-fitted sports guard from experienced GDC-registered dentists. Custom-made for comfort, retention and reliable impact protection — available at our South Kensington and City of London clinics.
Preventative Dental Care
What Are Sports Guards?
A sports guard — also known as a mouthguard or gum shield — is a protective device worn over the teeth during physical activities to reduce the risk of dental injury. Sports guards act as a cushion, helping to absorb and distribute the force of a blow to the face, jaw or mouth.
They are particularly important for anyone who plays contact sports or activities where there is a risk of impact to the mouth. A well-fitted sports guard can help prevent chipped, broken or knocked-out teeth, as well as cuts and bruising to the lips, cheeks and tongue. As part of general dentistry, sports guards are a simple and effective form of preventative dental care.
At Dental Clinic London, our dentists can assess your needs and provide a custom-made sports guard designed for a comfortable, secure fit that allows normal breathing and speech during use.
Who Benefits
When Might Sports Guards Be Recommended?
Your dentist may recommend a sports guard if you participate in activities where there is a risk of impact to the mouth or face. This includes contact sports such as rugby, boxing, martial arts and hockey, as well as activities like football, basketball, cricket and skateboarding where accidental collisions can occur.
Dental injuries sustained during sport can range from minor chips to severely fractured or knocked-out teeth. If left untreated, these injuries may require extensive treatment such as broken tooth repair, crowns or even extraction. Wearing a sports guard is one of the simplest ways to reduce this risk.
Sports guards may also be recommended for patients who have existing dental work such as crowns, bridges or veneers, as these restorations can be damaged by impact. Your dentist will assess your individual situation and advise on the most appropriate option during a clinical assessment.
Advantages
Benefits of a Custom Sports Guard
A professionally made sports guard offers reliable protection tailored to your mouth. Here are the key benefits.
Personalised Fit
Custom-made sports guards are fabricated from impressions of your teeth, providing a secure and comfortable fit that stays in place during physical activity.
Impact Protection
A well-fitted sports guard helps absorb and distribute the force of a blow to the face, reducing the risk of broken, chipped or knocked-out teeth.
Protects Soft Tissue
Sports guards also help protect lips, cheeks, tongue and gums from cuts and bruising caused by contact with teeth during impact.
Comfortable to Wear
Unlike generic alternatives, custom sports guards are designed to fit your mouth precisely, making them more comfortable to wear during training and competition.
Does Not Restrict Breathing
A properly fitted custom sports guard allows normal breathing and speech, which is essential for performance during physical activity.
Suitable for All Ages
Sports guards can be made for adults and children. For younger patients whose teeth are still developing, your dentist can advise on the most appropriate timing and design.
Your Options
Types of Sports Guards
There are several types of sports guards available. Your dentist will advise on the most suitable option based on your needs and the sport you play.
Custom-Made Sports Guards
Fabricated from precise impressions of your teeth, custom sports guards offer the most accurate fit. They are designed to accommodate your bite, any existing dental work and the specific demands of your sport. Custom guards are generally more comfortable and stay in place more reliably during physical activity.
Boil-and-Bite Guards
Available from pharmacies, these guards are softened in hot water and then moulded around the teeth by biting down. While more affordable, they provide a less precise fit than custom-made options and may feel bulky or loose during use.
Stock Mouthguards
Pre-formed and ready to wear, stock mouthguards are the most basic option. They come in limited sizes and cannot be adjusted to fit individual teeth, which may affect comfort, protection and the ability to breathe and speak normally.
Existing dental work such as dental crowns or veneers can be accommodated within a custom sports guard design.
Your Appointment
The Sports Guard Process
Getting a custom sports guard typically involves two short appointments. Here is what to expect at each stage.
Clinical Assessment
Your dentist examines your teeth, gums and jaw to ensure you are suitable for a sports guard. They discuss the sports you play, the level of contact involved and any existing dental work that needs to be accommodated.
Taking Impressions
Precise impressions or measurements of your teeth are taken to create a model of your mouth. This ensures the finished sports guard fits accurately over your teeth and feels comfortable during use.
Creating the Sports Guard
Your custom sports guard is fabricated to fit your mouth exactly. The material and thickness are selected based on the type and level of sport you play, providing appropriate protection without unnecessary bulk.
Fitting and Adjustments
At your fitting appointment, your dentist checks the sports guard sits securely over your teeth and does not interfere with your breathing or speech. Minor adjustments are made to ensure a comfortable, snug fit.
Longevity
How Long Do Sports Guards Last?
The lifespan of a sports guard depends on several factors, including how often it is used, the intensity of the sport, how it is stored and your individual bite. With regular use and proper care, a custom-made sports guard can provide reliable protection for a considerable period.
Over time, sports guards may show signs of wear such as thinning, roughened surfaces or a looser fit. Your dentist will check the condition of your sports guard at routine appointments and advise when a replacement may be needed. For children and adolescents whose jaws are still growing, more frequent replacement is typically required.
To help extend the life of your sports guard, rinse it after each use, store it in a ventilated case and avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot environments. Bring it with you to your dental check-ups so your dentist can assess its condition.
Transparent Pricing
Sports Guards Cost London
The cost of a sports guard varies depending on the type of guard, the materials used and the complexity of your individual requirements. Custom-made sports guards, which are fabricated from precise impressions of your teeth, are typically priced differently from over-the-counter alternatives.
At Dental Clinic London, we provide a clear and detailed treatment plan with confirmed costs before any work begins. There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges. Your dentist will discuss all available options during your assessment appointment.
If you would like to know more about our pricing structure, we encourage you to contact the clinic or book a consultation. We are committed to transparent, consultation-based pricing for all of our treatments.
Our Clinic
Why Choose Dental Clinic London
At Dental Clinic London, we take a preventative approach to dental care. Our dentists have experience in creating protective dental solutions, including custom-fitted sports guards designed for comfort, retention and appropriate levels of protection for your chosen sport.
Every sports guard we provide is individually made from precise impressions of your teeth, ensuring a fit that is secure and comfortable. We take the time to understand your requirements, discuss the available options and provide clear information so you can make an informed decision.
As a private dental clinic in London, we are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and all our clinicians are registered with the General Dental Council (GDC). We are committed to delivering high-quality preventative dental care in a professional and welcoming environment.
Two Convenient Locations
Sports Guards Near You in London
Our clinics welcome patients from across London and the surrounding areas. Whether you are searching for a sports mouthguard near me or a trusted private dentist for preventative dental care, we are conveniently located in central London.
South Kensington
Now Open20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3DL
Mon & Wed: 9 am – 6 pm
Tue & Thu: 9 am – 8 pm
Fri: 9 am – 5 pm
Sat & Sun: 10 am – 4 pm
1 min from South Kensington tube (District, Circle & Piccadilly)
City of London
Opening May 20265 Ave Maria Lane, City of London, London EC4M 7AQ
Mon – Fri: 8 am – 8 pm
Sat & Sun: Closed
3 min from St Paul's tube (Central line) · 5 min from Blackfriars
Common Questions
Sports Guards FAQ
Experienced Dentists
Your Dental Team
All our dentists are GDC registered and experienced in preventative dental care, including sports guard assessment and fitting.
Dr. Yasha Y Shirazi
Principal Dentist & Clinical Director
GDC: 195843
Dr. Reza Davari
Dentist
GDC: 302422
Dr. Kamran Yazdi
Dentist
GDC: 197926
Dr. Andreia Phipps
Dentist
GDC: 229601
Patient Reviews
What Our Patients Say
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Registered · Regulated · Trusted
Your Safety Is Our Priority
Our South Kensington clinic is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and all our clinicians are registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
CQC Regulated
South Kensington clinic
GDC Registered
All clinicians
CQC Provider: Medical and Dental Limited · Registration No. 1-20629579981
Protect Your Teeth — Book Today
Whether you play competitive sport or enjoy recreational activities, a custom sports guard can help protect your teeth from injury. Book a consultation to discuss your needs with one of our experienced dentists.
