Preventive Dentistry

Mouth Guards in Sarasota, FL

Custom-fit protection for active smiles and restful nights.

Whether you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, a custom mouth guard offers far better protection than anything off the shelf. We design each guard from precise impressions of your teeth so it fits comfortably, stays in place, and does its job without getting in the way of breathing or speaking.

Dentistry Designed Around Whole-Body Health

Sports Protection

Sports Guards

A single blow to the mouth during a game can crack a tooth, damage a root, or injure the jaw. Custom sports guards absorb and distribute impact force across the entire arch rather than concentrating it on one or two teeth.

  • Custom-molded from biocompatible materials for a secure, comfortable fit
  • Recommended for football, basketball, hockey, soccer, martial arts, and cycling
  • Allows normal breathing and speech during play
  • Significantly reduces the risk of concussion-related dental injuries
Night Protection

Night Guards

Bruxism—clenching or grinding during sleep—wears down enamel, causes jaw pain, and can crack teeth over time. A night guard creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding so your teeth do not have to.

  • Flat-plane splint — Even contact across all teeth to relax the jaw musclesMost common for moderate grinding
  • NTI-tss device — Small anterior guard that prevents back teeth from touchingTargeted relief for severe clenchers
  • Dual-laminate guard — Soft interior with a hard exterior shellComfort and durability combined
Custom vs. Store-Bought

Why Custom Guards Matter

1

Precise Fit

Made from impressions of your teeth, so the guard seats perfectly with no bulky or loose areas.

2

Better Protection

Uniform thickness and proper coverage distribute force evenly—something boil-and-bite guards cannot achieve.

3

Biocompatible Materials

We use BPA-free, phthalate-free materials so you are not holding chemicals against your gum tissue for hours.

Get Fitted

Protect Your Teeth Today

A custom mouth guard takes just two short visits—one for impressions, one for fitting. Contact our Sarasota office to get started.

Mouth Guards FAQ

What is the difference between a sports guard and a night guard?
Sports guards are thicker and designed to absorb sudden impact. Night guards are thinner and built to withstand the sustained pressure of grinding over many hours.
How long does a custom mouth guard last?
With proper care, most guards last two to five years. Heavy grinders may need replacement sooner.
Can I wear a night guard if I have braces?
Yes. We can design a guard that accommodates brackets and wires. It may need periodic adjustment as teeth move.
Are custom guards safe for children?
Absolutely. We recommend custom sports guards for any child in contact sports. The materials are BPA-free and biocompatible.
Will a night guard stop me from grinding?
It will not eliminate the habit, but it protects your teeth and reduces jaw muscle strain while you sleep.
How do I clean my mouth guard?
Rinse it after each use and brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Store it in a ventilated case and keep it away from heat.
Does insurance cover custom mouth guards?
Many plans cover night guards under preventive or TMJ benefits. Sports guards are less commonly covered. We will verify your benefits before treatment.
What are the signs that I need a night guard?
Morning jaw soreness, headaches, worn or flattened tooth surfaces, and tooth sensitivity are common indicators of bruxism.
Can a mouth guard help with TMJ pain?
Yes. By preventing clenching and repositioning the jaw slightly, a properly fitted guard can relieve TMJ-related discomfort.
How many visits does it take?
Two visits—one to take impressions and one to fit and adjust the finished guard.

Meet Dr. Zannis

Office Hours

Monday7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Tuesday7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Wednesday7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Friday9:00 am – 3:00 pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed

  • Highly recommended!
    “From the moment I walked in, I could tell this office was different. Dr. Zannis took the time to explain the biological approach and never made me feel rushed. My results have been better than I expected.”
    Janeth Sierra
    ★★★★★
  • Seriously the best!
    “I switched here after years of going to a traditional dentist and the difference is night and day. The team is gentle, thorough, and genuinely cares about your overall health, not just your teeth.”
    Kevin Clare
    ★★★★★