Custom Mouthguards & Sports Guards in Seattle, WA

A custom mouthguard made at White Center Smiles in Seattle is fabricated from a precise impression of your teeth, giving it a fit that no over-the-counter product can match. Store-bought guards are made in generic sizes and shapes, which means they tend to be bulky, uncomfortable, and prone to shifting during play. A poorly fitting guard is also a poorly protecting guard. Many athletes end up removing store-bought guards mid-game because they interfere with breathing or speaking. A custom guard sits securely, allows normal communication, and provides significantly better shock absorption. For patients in the White Center and nearby areas, we always recommend investing in a custom-fitted guard over a generic alternative.

Yes. Research consistently shows that mouthguards significantly reduce the risk of chipped, broken, and knocked-out teeth during sports. They also help cushion impact to the jaw, which can reduce the risk of concussion in some situations. The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for more than 30 sports and recreational activities. At White Center Smiles, we see firsthand how much damage a single impact can do to unprotected teeth, and how often those injuries could have been avoided entirely. A custom guard is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your long-term dental health.

Children should start wearing a mouthguard as soon as they begin participating in contact sports or activities with a risk of falls. This typically starts around age 5 or 6 when kids begin organized sports. At White Center Smiles in Seattle, we fit custom guards for children of all ages. Keep in mind that growing children may need a new guard each season as their mouths change. We recommend checking the fit at every routine dental visit to make sure the guard still provides adequate protection.

Yes, and it is especially important to do so. Braces create additional risk during sports because a direct impact can drive the brackets and wires into the soft tissue of the mouth. Standard mouthguards are not designed to fit over braces, which is why a custom guard fitted by your Seattle dentist is the right solution. Our team at White Center Smiles can create a guard that accommodates your orthodontic hardware and keeps both your teeth and your braces protected during play.

With proper care, a custom mouthguard from White Center Smiles can last several years for adults whose mouths are fully developed. Children and teens typically need a replacement every one to two seasons as their teeth and jaw continue to grow. Signs that it is time for a new guard include visible wear, cracks, thinning of the material, or a fit that no longer feels snug. We check the condition of your guard at your regular appointments and will let you know when it is time for a new one.

Rinse your guard with cool water before and after every use. Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, and store it in a ventilated, hard-sided case when not in use. Avoid hot water, direct sunlight, and leaving it in a closed bag or car, as heat can warp the material and compromise the fit. Never share your mouthguard with another person. Proper care extends the life of your guard and reduces bacteria buildup that can affect your oral health.

A sports guard is specifically designed to protect against external impact, not grinding. If you grind your teeth at night, also known as bruxism, you would benefit from a night guard, which is a different appliance designed to cushion the grinding motion. At White Center Smiles in Seattle, we offer both sports guards and night guards depending on your specific needs. If you are unsure which type is right for you, our team will assess your situation and make a personalized recommendation.

Coverage for custom mouthguards varies by insurance plan. Some plans cover them fully or partially, particularly for children participating in sports. Others may not include them as a covered benefit. Our team at White Center Smiles will check your specific coverage before your appointment so you know what to expect. Even without insurance coverage, a custom guard is a worthwhile investment when you consider the cost of repairing or replacing a damaged tooth. Call us at (206) 762-2573 to ask about your plan.

Yes. One of the fun perks of a custom mouthguard is that it can be made in team colors or personal preferences, which makes kids and teens much more likely to wear it consistently. At White Center Smiles, we want your athlete to actually want to wear their guard. Ask our team about color and design options when you come in for your fitting appointment.

White Center Smiles is conveniently located at 10254 16th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98146, serving patients from White Center, West Seattle, Burien, Tukwila, and the surrounding communities. Getting a custom mouthguard is a quick and easy process that can often be completed alongside a routine cleaning or exam appointment. Call us at (206) 762-2573 or request an appointment online to get started.