Sports Mouthguards in San Francisco
Anchor Dental (West Portal)

At Anchor Dental in West Portal, San Francisco, we design custom sports mouthguards that fit securely and protect teeth during athletic activities.

A well-fitted mouthguard absorbs impact, reduces the risk of fractures, and makes it easier to breathe and speak compared to store-bought versions. Whether your child plays team sports or you’re active in adult leagues, a custom guard provides stronger, safer protection.

Custom protection for active lifestyles

At Anchor Dental in West Portal, San Francisco, we design custom sports mouthguards to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw during athletic activity.
Whether you play high-contact sports or recreational games, a properly fitted mouthguard reduces the risk of broken teeth, lip injuries, and jaw strain — while allowing you to breathe, talk, and perform comfortably.

Our mouthguards are individually crafted for your bite, providing better protection and comfort than over-the-counter options.

Why athletes need custom sports mouthguards

Accidents can happen fast — a ball, elbow, or fall can cause chipped teeth or even jaw fractures. Sports mouthguards cushion these impacts by absorbing and redistributing force.

They’re especially important for:

• Football, hockey, and basketball – high risk of facial contact
• Soccer and baseball – occasional collisions or ball strikes
• Martial arts and boxing – direct jaw impact protection
• Skateboarding, biking, and skiing – risk of falls or sudden jolts

Even non-contact sports can lead to unexpected hits or slips. A mouthguard is a small investment that can save you from costly dental repairs later.

The benefits of a custom mouthguard

Unlike boil-and-bite or store-bought guards, custom mouthguards made at Anchor Dental are precision-designed for your exact bite and activity level.

Custom guards are also ideal for athletes with braces or orthodontic retainers, ensuring full coverage without irritation or slippage.

Our process for creating your sports mouthguard

Getting a custom-fit mouthguard is quick and comfortable — typically completed in one or two visits.

1. Consultation and assessment
   We evaluate your sport, age, and dental structure to design a mouthguard suited to your activity and level of contact.
2. Digital impression
   We take precise digital scans of your teeth — no messy putty molds required.
3. Fabrication
   Your mouthguard is made in a trusted Bay Area lab using durable, high-impact thermoplastic material.
4. Fitting and adjustments
   Once ready, we check the fit to ensure it’s snug, secure, and comfortable for breathing and communication.

You’ll leave ready to play, knowing your smile is protected.

Who benefits most from sports mouthguards

Sports mouthguards are recommended for:

• Children and teens in school sports
• Adults in competitive or recreational leagues
• Athletes with braces or previous dental work
• Anyone with crowns, veneers, or implants
• Cyclists and skaters at risk of falls

A properly fitted guard protects not only teeth but also soft tissues, joints, and existing dental restorations.

The connection between mouthguards and concussion prevention

Studies show that custom-fit mouthguards may help reduce the risk of concussions by cushioning the jaw and minimizing transmitted force to the head.
While no mouthguard can prevent concussions entirely, the stability and shock absorption of a well-designed appliance can lessen the severity of impact.

That’s why many professional athletes and college teams now require custom guards as part of their standard equipment.

Caring for your mouthguard

To keep your sports mouthguard clean and long-lasting:

• Rinse it before and after every use
• Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
• Avoid using toothpaste — it can scratch the surface
• Store it in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth
• Keep it away from heat or direct sunlight
• Bring it to your dental check-ups so we can inspect it

With proper care, most mouthguards last up to three seasons before replacement is needed.

Custom mouthguards for kids and teens

Children and teens are especially vulnerable to sports injuries because their teeth and jaws are still developing.
At Anchor Dental, we make lightweight, flexible mouthguards for younger athletes that offer protection without affecting speech or breathing.

As kids grow, we recommend refitting their guards every 1–2 years to maintain full coverage and comfort.

Why store-bought mouthguards aren’t enough

Generic mouthguards from sporting goods stores often don’t fit securely. They may shift, cause gagging, or require constant biting to stay in place.
Because they don’t match your bite, they offer uneven protection and may leave parts of your teeth exposed.

Custom-fit guards not only protect better — they’re easier to wear consistently, which means better safety every time you play.

Common questions about sports mouthguards

Do mouthguards help prevent chipped or broken teeth?
Yes — they cushion direct impact and protect against chips, fractures, and even tooth loss.

Can I wear a mouthguard with braces?
Absolutely. Custom guards can be made to fit over braces or orthodontic appliances without irritation.

How often should I replace my mouthguard?
Every 1–2 years, or sooner if it becomes worn, loose, or after significant dental work.

Are custom mouthguards expensive?
They’re a bit more than store-bought guards, but the protection they offer can prevent thousands of dollars in dental repairs.

Do mouthguards affect breathing or speaking?
Not when made properly — custom guards are slim and contoured for easy breathing and communication.

Local connection – protecting San Francisco athletes

We’re proud to support athletes across San Francisco neighborhoods. From youth soccer players to weekend cyclists, our patients trust Anchor Dental for mouthguards that perform as well as they protect. Whether it’s for your child’s sports season or your own active hobby, we’ll create a mouthguard that fits comfortably and lasts through every match.

Why San Francisco patients choose Anchor Dental

• Custom digital-fit mouthguards made locally
• Comfortable, slim design that stays in place
• Protection for teeth, gums, and jaw joints
• Fast turnaround and easy replacement options
• Trusted expertise from Dr. Esra Salihoglu Yener, DDS, PhD

Our goal is to make safety effortless — protection that feels natural, so you can focus on your performance.

Schedule a custom sports mouthguard in San Francisco

Don’t wait until after an accident to think about dental protection. Schedule your custom sports mouthguard appointment at Anchor Dental today — it’s quick, comfortable, and designed to keep your smile safe every game.