(715) 707-5992 [email protected] Crystal River Dental 400 School St, Waupaca, WI 54981
Book Appointment
Custom athletic mouth guards in Waupaca
— real protection for every sport

A knocked-out or broken tooth is one of the most common sports injuries — and one of the most preventable. At Crystal River Dental, we custom-fit athletic mouth guards that actually stay in place and protect the teeth, soft tissue, jaw joints, and brain.

Same-Day Digital Fittings & Diagnostic Lab Work Configurations Available

Built specifically for your teeth — not a one-size-fits-all solution

Unlike commercial boil-and-bite devices, a professional guard is fabricated from a precise digital scan or physical model of your direct upper dentition. We leverage premium, multi-layered biocompatible materials that cushion impacts, distributing high-friction kinetic forces evenly across your entire bone architecture to protect against tooth loss and horizontal root fractures.

Because the internal margin tightly mirrors your unique gum line contour, the appliance locks in position automatically without requiring you to clench your jaw. This allows athletes to communicate commands clearly, breathe freely, and remain focused on their game.

Mouth Guard Appliance Facts

Fabrication Track: Precise dental impression → in-house or specialized lab formulation


Turnaround Time: Same-day processing or 1–2 week turn options
Standard Appliance Lifespan: 1–3 Years (Dependent on developmental age changes)
Candidacy Range: Any individual active in contact, collision, or outdoor fall sports
The Persuasion Argument
Why a $5 store-bought guard costs thousands over time
The primary objection is often “why not just buy one at the sporting goods store?” This feature matrix maps out the precise physiological differences.
Custom Mouth Guard

Professional

Precise structural fit

Stays completely locked in place even during massive high-impact play sequences.

Complete soft tissue coverage

Shields delicate lip margins, inner cheeks, and gingival structures completely.

Comfortable speech & breathing

Allows athletes to shout team communications easily and inhale maximum oxygen streams.

Accommodates ortho/appliances

Specially contoured to adapt safely over active braces, dental implants, or missing tooth spaces.

Store Bought Boil & Bite

Over the Counter

Loose, unstable fit

Regularly falls out or gets spit out mid-play, leaving teeth completely exposed.

Bulky, thinned-out edges

Subjecting materials to hot water thinning compromises critical thickness at high-impact corners.

Obstructed breathing lanes

Requires constant active clenching to hold in place, causing fast airway fatigue.

Rigid structural friction

Cannot adapt safely around orthodontic wires, which can cause severe lacerations during impact.

Broad Applicable Sports

Every athlete needs structured protection

Contact sports

Football, hockey, rugby, lacrosse, wrestling, and mixed martial arts — where mouth protection is strictly required by league regulations.

Collision-risk sports

Basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, volleyball, and gymnastics. Dental fractures are highly common here due to stray elbows or ball impacts.

Individual sports

Skateboarding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and inline skating. Uncontested, sudden contact with concrete can cause severe dental trauma without warning.

Orthodontic cases

Athletes with active braces require custom guards to protect both soft lip tissues and fragile brackets from blunt force impact damage.

Simple 3-Step Process
Demystifying the fitting appointment

01

Digital scan or impression

We take a fast, clean digital scan or traditional impression of your upper teeth. The process requires less than 5 minutes and introduces no gagging or discomfort.


02

Laboratory fabrication

Your model is formed with heat-hardened, multi-layered resin materials. We customize thickness settings to match your specific position and sport type.


03

Fit check & direct delivery

You return for a quick fit check. Dr. Piontek verifies marginal bite stability, handles any micro-adjustments, and sends you home ready to compete safely.


Real Patient Feedback

Google reviews

Trusted by local families

4.8 ★★★★★ Google
doc finn
doc finn2 months ago
★★★★★

I'm very pleased with the service and the professionalism at Crystal River dental. I felt…

Emilie Eppensteiner
Emilie Eppensteiner2 months ago
★★★★

I chatted with hygienist and dentist. Both were nice and knowledgeable. I had a filling…

Bonita Erdmann
Bonita Erdmann4 months ago
★★★★★

I was very pleased with the staff and Dr. Matte. Thank you.

Del Volpel
Del Volpel6 months ago
★★★★★

Outstanding care. Professional and compassionate.

Avilomah Ridge
Avilomah Ridge6 months ago
★★★★★

I had dental phobia, but everyone here is so kind, patient and understanding. Dentist does…

Debra Olsen
Debra Olsen2 months ago
★★★★★

For the first time in my life I am not afraid to go to the…

Vicki Sommers
Vicki Sommers5 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and efficient, best dentist I've ever had. Due to exposed roots teeth are…

Tami French
Tami French5 months ago
★★★★★

First experience went awesome & I look forward to my future visits! I broke my…

Christal Berg
Christal Berg6 months ago
★★★★★

I feel very comfortable there

Dale Hazard
Dale Hazard6 months ago
★★★★★

Even being late everyone was pleasant

Alyssa Schauer
Alyssa Schauer4 months ago
★★★★

Dr. B was thorough and I am glad that my son had his chipped tooth…

Lois Richter
Lois Richter1 month ago
★★★★★

The staff at Crystal River Dental is very professional, friendly & efficient. I am so…

Barbara
Barbara5 months ago
★★★★★

I always feel very cared about. 😊 I am cared about as a person compassionately…

Gary Prochnow
Gary Prochnow3 months ago
★★★★★

I had work done in both Waupaca and Wausau locations over the past year. Doctors…

Dave N
Dave N4 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and great service

Bpontzloff Bigboyss
Bpontzloff Bigboyss3 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and professional staff.They are honest and do a great job.

Karin Nieubuurt
Karin Nieubuurt6 months ago
★★★★★

Staff is always upbeat and friendly.

Gator G
Gator G4 months ago
★★★★★

Great and helpful always listens to my concerns

Debbie Altenburg
Debbie Altenburg5 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly Staff and the dentist is the best dentist I’ve ever been to 😊

Marcia Lieske
Marcia Lieske4 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Very thorough, friendly & gentle. They provide detailed explanations of procedures and upfront…

Jim Tomasko
Jim Tomasko5 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone is very polite and helpful. I had to make a last minute appointment because…

Christine Galyardt
Christine Galyardt4 months ago
★★★★★

Love the dentist! They are very caring and efficient.

Timothy Lemerand
Timothy Lemerand5 months ago
★★★★★

CRD stands behind its work and products Rarely do you see a company that has…

Ben Schroeder
Ben Schroeder6 months ago
★★★★★

Great customer service and friendly staff! Outstanding dentist!

Brittany Durrant
Brittany Durrant3 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Made me feel very comfortable and wanted to make sure I was okay…

Sharrey Kalbus
Sharrey Kalbus3 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and friendly.

Dennis Marten
Dennis Marten1 month ago
★★★★★

Very nice, I was totally comfortable. Thanks.

Stacy
Stacy3 months ago
★★★★★

All employees are very nice and listen to ymy issues and explain what needs to…

Marilyn Lange
Marilyn Lange6 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and staff are great. I'm very happy with the excellent care and the…

Pauline Suhs
Pauline Suhs5 months ago
★★★★★

Very kind and efficient. Friendly staff.

Stephen L Manske
Stephen L Manske4 months ago
★★★★★

I've been really impressed with the service and the quality of work. This visit provides…

Lynn Eberly
Lynn Eberly5 months ago
★★★★★

I had my bottom teeth removed. I had no bruising, swelling or any pain, just…

Beth Ann Zellmer
Beth Ann Zellmer2 months ago
★★★★★

Today, I had a cleaning of my teeth at Crystal Dental. The service I received…

Karen Galske
Karen Galske5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Lap Nguyen was the dentist I saw today, and I was very impressed. I…

Marlene Germundson
Marlene Germundson5 months ago
★★★★★

The assistants and the doctor are very nice and explains things very well.

Josh Jahnke
Josh Jahnke6 months ago
★★★★★

Doc was great. Got one tooth pulled didn't feel a thing. Doc was very informative…

Chuck Wieland
Chuck Wieland1 month ago
★★★★★

Tina was excellent in what she was doing with my teeth. Was able to get…

Kevin Killeen
Kevin Killeen6 months ago
★★★★★

Great care, friendly staff. Hard to find a dentist this good and caring but this…

Nate Kahler
Nate Kahler2 months ago
★★★★★

First visit to Crystal River Dental. The staff was very accommodating and helpful.

Cara Frias
Cara Frias6 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly, professional, took the time to answer my questions.

Lynn Anderson
Lynn Anderson6 months ago
★★★★★

I highly recommend Crystal River Dental. Everyone there is professional and kind. I have been…

Patrick Kelly
Patrick Kelly5 months ago
★★★★★

They are very friendly an efficient

Mark wheaton
Mark wheaton5 months ago
★★★★★

Great attention to detail.

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson6 months ago
★★★★★

Very happy with the crown Color was perfect and so was the fit.Thank you!

Jesus isLord
Jesus isLord3 months ago
★★★★★

The dentist is very cordial and respectful. I appreciate the care she gives.

Linda Hughes
Linda Hughes6 months ago
★★★★★

The receptionists, the hygienist, Nicole and Dr. Nguyen were all very communicative, professional, efficient and…

Linda Kubczak
Linda Kubczak3 months ago
★★★★★

Very sad to see Doctor Lap Nguyen had left sure enjoyed going to have him…

Judith Gudex
Judith Gudex5 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience at Crystal River Dental. My Hygienist, Angela did an outstanding job and I…

Tracy Karabelas
Tracy Karabelas2 months ago
★★★★★

Love this place & the Dentist! They are efficient, friendly and realistic! They work with…

Ruth Hanson
Ruth Hanson2 months ago
★★★★★

Very thorough exam and nice people!

Jan Niemuth
Jan Niemuth4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Routine 6 mo cleaning and exam today. Punctuality is appreciated. Comfortable, painless procedures done in…

Julie Johannes
Julie Johannes4 months ago
★★★★★

Met Hygienist Angela today for the first time. She was extremely thoughtful, thorough and educational….

bonnie banaszak
bonnie banaszak2 months ago
★★★★★

Thank you for getting me in today you made my day.

Chad
Chad5 months ago
★★★★★

It was a great experience, they were very unstanding and very kind.

Cliff
Cliff5 months ago
★★★★★

Glad to be here: good listeners, good attention to detail, and hospitable. All make you…

Sherry Werner
Sherry Werner3 months ago
★★★★★

She was awesome. She was concerned and listened to me

dirk williams
dirk williams1 month ago
★★★★★

I had my first visit. I had to miss my first appointment….The staff was very…

martine mancini
martine mancini4 months ago
★★★★★

Service was on time and very friendly.

LRSchuelke
LRSchuelke1 month ago
★★★★★

Dentist, associates, & all office staff are absolutely awesome. They don’t treat their patients as…

Anna Gallegos-Hunt
Anna Gallegos-Hunt3 months ago
★★★★★

Dr Nguyen is a very knowledgeable and caring person..he explains options and the why of…

Mary Lindenmeyer
Mary Lindenmeyer1 month ago
★★★★★

You really care about your clients!!! More than the one I had after40 plus years…

Brenda Sedlar
Brenda Sedlar4 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone there is friendly. The office is spotless and the hygenists are very thorough. Office…

Heather Krueger
Heather Krueger4 months ago
★★★★★

They were very nice and took care of me right from the start

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson4 months ago
★★★★★

I had a wonderful experience. The dental hygienist was very nice and was also encouraging…

Linda Mueller
Linda Mueller6 months ago
★★★★★

Every time I’m here the entire staff is friendly, helpful, kind and on top of…

Joyce Greenholdt
Joyce Greenholdt5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and all the staff have been friendly, helpful, very skilled, and very good…

John Charleston
John Charleston5 months ago
★★★★★

Professional and sensitive to patients needs.

Jeanine Kes Bode
Jeanine Kes Bode6 months ago
★★★★★

Always on time. Always very friendly.

Sherry Nushart
Sherry Nushart6 months ago
★★★★★

My Hygienist, Angela, was very friendly and thorough. She has nice conversation and lets me…

Janet Kitzrow
Janet Kitzrow5 months ago
★★★★★

I had an exam with Dr Nguyen, that was very thorough. I appreciate his comprehensive…

Darrell Bartel
Darrell Bartel3 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing Dental Care. From the Receptionist, throughout the whole process, Everyone makes you feel special….

Gwynn Schroeder
Gwynn Schroeder1 month ago
★★★★★

The appointment was right on time. My cleaning was great without discomfort. Dr. did a…

Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)
Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)3 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing from when you first walk in the door until you leave. Everyone treats you…

Heather Meyer
Heather Meyer4 months ago
★★★★★

This dentist made me feel BEYOND comfortable! I have never had a dentist so forward,…

Cindy Cate
Cindy Cate2 months ago
★★★★★

I thought she is very kind and gentle! Gave me good advice for future care!

Cindy Roberts
Cindy Roberts5 months ago
★★★★★

All of the staff are so very friendly. They always get to me on time….

Becca Lewis-Clifton
Becca Lewis-Clifton1 month ago
★★★★★

After starting in 2022, at CRD, I was happy the practice finally settled down with…

Kathy Wagner
Kathy Wagner4 months ago
★★★★★

Everything they did was pain free. Thank you

Rodney Frankovis
Rodney Frankovis4 months ago
★★★★★

Very good. On time and thorough.

Joel Altenburg
Joel Altenburg6 months ago
★★★★★

I found a diamond of a dentist office in Waupaca, WI . From the reception…

Deb Ostrander
Deb Ostrander5 months ago
★★★★★

Jan, their dental hygienist did a fabulous job cleaning my teeth. Very knowledgeable and thorough.

Kathy Baker
Kathy Baker6 months ago
★★★★★

Hygienist, Angela, very thorough, does an excellent job explaining teeth and toothbrush issues. Reminding me…

Tonette Decker
Tonette Decker5 months ago
★★★★★

I like Dr. Nyugen my dentist here at Dental Crystal River – Waupaca very professional…

Dorene Knolle
Dorene Knolle2 months ago
★★★★★

Every was nice and helpful.

Cindy Buenning
Cindy Buenning5 months ago
★★★★★

As a first time patient, I was very happy with the hygienist and the dentist.

desiree lucena
desiree lucena2 months ago
★★★★★

A perfect place with super-professional people who provide excellent service. I was extremely satisfied with…

Denny Schroeder
Denny Schroeder5 months ago
★★★★★

Always a pleasant experience Thank you

All-Time Greatest Music
All-Time Greatest Music3 months ago
★★★★★

The young lady that cleaned my teeth was very thorough and had a very pleasant…

Randy Thern
Randy Thern1 month ago
★★★★★

The cleaning was done in a relatively painless way. The exam was thorough and I…

b c (BC)
b c (BC)1 month ago
★★★★★

Very through and honest dentist. Sugested but did not try 2 push expensive improvements.

Mary Robinson
Mary Robinson5 months ago
★★★★★

Great dentist and coworkers!

Timothy Hein
Timothy Hein4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental is a top notch practice from top to bottom. Highly competent and…

Anthony Brzozowski
Anthony Brzozowski2 months ago
★★★★★

Had a crown done today, always professional and painless work done by the dentist here…

Steve and Linda
Steve and Linda5 months ago
★★★★★

They have always done a great job with my regular teeth cleaning. got same day…

Mark Forseth
Mark Forseth6 months ago
★★★★★

Excellent care in a friendly and professional manner.

Edward McCardell
Edward McCardell6 months ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental does a fantastic job. Hygienist Angela is very thorough and takes the…

MJB
MJB2 months ago
★★★★★

Good experience! Dr.Saad, assistant Lisa, and hygienist Angela have all been very professional and helpful….

Patricia steinbarth
Patricia steinbarth3 months ago
★★★★★

Very competent and friendly people. Angela did a great job cleaning my teeth.

Lisa Kasner
Lisa Kasner6 months ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental is a very professional and caring establishment. The atmosphere is relaxing. I…

Aaron Mueller
Aaron Mueller2 months ago
★★★★★

Very pleased! As an itinerant substitute dentist she did a fantastic and thorough job.

Russell Delgado
Russell Delgado6 months ago
★★★★★

A very good dentist and very nice and friendly

Paul Hanneman
Paul Hanneman1 month ago
★★★★★

I appreciate their honest work and explanation of what is going on when I get…

Debby Dear
Debby Dear3 months ago
★★★★★

I couldn’t be happier with Crystal River Dental. Everyone from the front desk to the…

Kay Konen
Kay Konen2 months ago
★★★★★

Hygienist was great,and Dr.'s explanation of teeth matters explained throughly.

Christopher Gudex
Christopher Gudex2 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and thorough.

Michael Messing
Michael Messing1 month ago
★★★★★

The new dentist was very friendly and good and the hygienist was great.

David Golke
David Golke4 months ago
★★★★★

I've been with crystal river for about a year now and they have been nothing…

Frequently Asked Mouth Guard Questions

A professional custom mouth guard typically ranges between $150 and $300, depending on thickness parameters and sport type complexity. Many PPO dental insurance options fund a portion of this under preventive codes. It remains a tiny fraction of the cost required to repair a knocked-out tooth structure.

Yes, absolutely. We fabricate specialized orthodontic mouth guards engineered to fit comfortably over brackets. They provide high impact defense while leaving space for teeth to shift safely into their planned alignments.

For adult athletes, a custom guard delivers durable defense for 1 to 3 years. For growing children and teens whose dental structures are shifting, replacements are required more frequently. We evaluate structural fit at every 6-month cleaning block.

The American Dental Association officially suggests mouth guard protection across 29 distinct sports activities. Non-contact sports like mountain biking, basketball, or gymnastics carry elevated risks for dental trauma from sudden drops and collision impact forces.

Clinical research indicates that a properly fitted, professional mouth guard can minimize concussion risks by absorbing and distributing violent impact forces before they reach the jaw joint and skull base. Loose, thin store-bought options fail to supply this distribution safety.

Related services

Night guards & bruxism

Protect your smile from nocturnal grinding wear with heavy-duty diagnostic appliances customized for sleep comfort.

Emergency dental care

If an unexpected sports injury occurs, our clinical desk provides swift same-day priority trauma tracking for immediate tooth preservation.

Orthodontics

We coordinate specialized guard tracks that protect teeth while allowing orthodontic wires to move teeth safely.

Protect your smile before the next game. Book a fitting slot today.