Occlusal & Sports Guards in Parker, CO

Protect Your Teeth from Grinding & Clenching

Your teeth play a vital role in eating, speaking, and maintaining a confident smile, so preventing damage and wear is essential. At Killingsworth Family Dentistry, we offer custom occlusal guards to protect your teeth from nighttime grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching. These guards help prevent tooth enamel erosion, jaw pain, and headaches, ensuring your smile stays strong and healthy.

Occlusal & Sports Guards in Parker, CO

Custom Sports Guards for Impact Protection

For athletes and active individuals, sports guards provide a crucial layer of defense against injuries during contact sports and high-impact activities. Dr. Yvette Killingsworth and her team create custom-fit dental guards that are comfortable, durable, and highly effective in preventing tooth fractures, gum injuries, and jaw trauma. Patients from Parker, CO, and nearby locations such as Bradbury Ranch, Stroh Ranch, The Pinery, Stonegate, and Meridian Village visit us for comprehensive dental care.

What Are Occlusal & Sports Guards?

Occlusal guards (also called nightguards) are custom-made dental appliances that prevent teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching while you sleep. They help protect tooth enamel from excessive wear, reduce jaw pain, and minimize tension headaches caused by grinding.

Sports guards (mouthguards) are designed for athletes and active individuals who participate in contact sports or activities with a high risk of oral injuries. These custom-fitted guards absorb impact and protect the teeth, gums, and jaw from trauma.

Both types of guards are custom-made to fit comfortably and securely, providing maximum protection without interfering with breathing or speaking.

Signs You May Need an Occlusal Guard

Bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching) often occurs unconsciously during sleep and can lead to long-term dental damage. You may benefit from an occlusal guard if you experience:

  • Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth from grinding.
  • Jaw pain, soreness, or tension headaches upon waking.
  • Tooth sensitivity caused by enamel erosion.
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw (a sign of TMJ issues).
  • Unexplained facial pain or muscle tension.

Wearing an occlusal guard at night prevents grinding and clenching, helping to preserve your teeth and reduce jaw discomfort.

Who Should Wear a Sports Guard?

If you or your child participate in high-impact sports or activities, a sports guard is essential for protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury. We recommend sports guards for:

  • Football, hockey, basketball, and soccer players.
  • Martial artists, boxers, and wrestlers.
  • Gymnasts, cyclists, and skateboarders.
  • Anyone involved in activities with a risk of falls or contact injuries.

A custom sports guard fits better, offers superior protection, and is more comfortable than over-the-counter options, ensuring you can perform at your best while keeping your teeth safe.

Benefits of Custom Occlusal & Sports Guards

  • Prevents tooth wear, fractures, and damage from grinding or impact.
  • Reduces jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ-related discomfort.
  • Protects teeth, gums, and jaw during contact sports and physical activities.
  • More comfortable and secure fit compared to store-bought guards.
  • Long-lasting durability with proper care and maintenance.

By investing in a custom occlusal or sports guard, you protect your smile while avoiding costly dental repairs caused by grinding or sports injuries.

How Are Custom Guards Made?

Getting a custom occlusal or sports guard at Killingsworth Family Dentistry is a quick and painless process:

  1. Consultation & Examination – Dr. Killingsworth evaluates your teeth, jaw alignment, and oral health to determine the best type of guard for your needs.
  2. Impressions & Digital Scanning – A precise mold of your teeth is taken using impressions or 3D CT scanning for a perfect fit.
  3. Fabrication of the Custom Guard – Your personalized dental guard is crafted from high-quality materials for comfort and durability.
  4. Final Fitting & Adjustments – Once your guard is ready, we ensure it fits securely and comfortably, making any necessary adjustments.

Your custom guard will be designed to last for years with proper care, providing ongoing protection and comfort.

Caring for Your Occlusal or Sports Guard

To keep your custom dental guard in excellent condition, follow these care tips:

  • Rinse your guard with cold water after each use.
  • Clean it daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap.
  • Store it in a ventilated case when not in use.
  • Avoid hot water or direct heat, which can warp the material.
  • Bring your guard to dental checkups so Dr. Killingsworth can examine it for wear and tear.

With proper care, your occlusal or sports guard can provide long-term protection and help maintain your oral health.

Are Occlusal & Sports Guards Covered by Insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover occlusal guards for bruxism, while coverage for sports guards varies. Our team will:

  • Verify your insurance benefits before treatment.
  • Provide cost estimates and discuss affordable payment options if needed.
  • Ensure you receive the best possible care within your budget.

If you don’t have insurance, we offer flexible payment plans to make custom dental guards accessible for everyone.

Why Choose Killingsworth Family Dentistry?

  • Experienced & Trusted Care – Dr. Yvette Killingsworth has been helping patients protect their smiles since 1999.
  • Custom-Fit for Maximum Comfort & Protection – Our guards are precisely designed for optimal fit and function.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology – We use advanced digital scanning and imaging for precise, high-quality guards.
  • Comprehensive Preventive Dentistry – We offer a full range of preventive treatments, including dental sealants and fluoride treatments.
  • Trusted by the Community – See what our patients say in our testimonials.

Schedule Your Appointment for a Custom Dental Guard

Protect your teeth from grinding, clenching, and sports-related injuries with a custom occlusal or sports guard from Killingsworth Family Dentistry. Whether you need relief from bruxism symptoms or want to stay safe on the field, we’re here to help.

Call (303) 841-2070

Request an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do occlusal and sports guards last?

With proper care, custom guards can last several years. However, grinding, clenching, or frequent sports activity may cause wear over time, requiring replacement.

Can I wear my sports guard as a nightguard?

No. Sports guards are designed for impact protection, while occlusal guards are made for grinding and clenching relief.

Do over-the-counter nightguards work?

Store-bought nightguards provide limited protection and may be uncomfortable or ill-fitting. A custom occlusal guard offers better durability, comfort, and effectiveness.

At what age should children start wearing sports guards?

Children should wear sports guards as soon as they start playing contact sports, typically around ages 6–7.

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Protect Your Smile with a Custom Guard in Parker, CO

Don’t let grinding, clenching, or sports injuries damage your smile. Contact Killingsworth Family Dentistry today to get your custom occlusal or sports guard and protect your teeth for years to come!

Call (303) 841-2070 or schedule your appointment online.