When participating in high-contact sports, injuries to the face and mouth are often unavoidable. This makes it crucial to have a properly fitting sports guard. Protective sports guards should not be a one-size-fits-all situation, as each patient has unique dental anatomy. A precise fit means more protection against injuries and dental trauma.

The custom sports guard procedure consists of two appointments. Impressions are initially taken on the first appointment. The patient will return for a subsequent appointment in a few days, giving the dental assistant time to pour up models and fabricate the patients custom sports guard. When the patient returns, the sports guard is inserted, fitted, evaluated, and sometimes adjusted by the dentist to ensure proper fitting.

It is important for the patient to monitor the wear and fit of their sports guards. Excessive wear and improper fit can cause the sports guard to provide inadequate protection against trauma. This is especially important for adolescences that are progressing into full adult dentition. Therefore, it is recommended to replace sports guards after each season, to maintain the highest level of protection.