Whether you wear braces or not, protecting your smile while playing sports is essential. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury. The American Dental Association recommends wearing a mouthguard if you participate in any full-contact sport. Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. In addition to our comprehensive general dentistry services, we provide mouthguards to new and existing patients.
There are three basic mouthguards: the pre-made mouthguard, the “boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist. When you choose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable, and well-fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing correctly. Your dentist can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile.
Nightguards
If you often wake up with jaw pain, earaches, or headaches, or if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have a common condition called “bruxism.” Many people do not even know that they grind their teeth, as it often occurs when one is sleeping. However, bruxism can lead to broken teeth, cracked teeth, or even tooth loss if not corrected.
There is an easy, non-invasive treatment for bruxism: nightguards. Nightguards are an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that teeth-grinding causes over time. Custom-made by your dentist from soft material to fit your teeth, a nightguard is inserted over your top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth.
Getting a Custom Mouthguard
A custom mouthguard is a special device made by your dentist to protect your teeth. People wear mouthguards for different reasons. Some use them to protect their teeth while playing sports, while others wear them at night to prevent grinding or clenching. A custom mouthguard fits your mouth better than store-bought ones, making it more comfortable and effective.
The first step is a visit to the dentist. During this visit, the dentist will check your teeth, gums, and bite. They’ll also ask why you need a mouthguard—whether for sports, nighttime grinding (also called bruxism), or another reason. This information helps the dentist choose the right type of mouthguard for your needs.
Next, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth. This means they use a soft, moldable material in a tray that fits over your teeth. You bite down on it for a short time until it sets. These impressions capture the exact shape and size of your teeth and gums. Some offices may use a digital scanner instead of a physical mold, which takes a 3D image of your mouth.
Once your impressions are ready, they are sent to a dental lab. There, technicians use strong, safe materials to make a custom-fitted mouthguard. The lab carefully shapes the mouthguard to fit snugly and comfortably over your teeth. This step may take about one to two weeks, depending on the office and lab.
When your custom mouthguard is ready, you’ll return to the dentist for a fitting. The dentist will ensure it fits well, feels comfortable, and stays in place. If any spots feel too tight or loose, the dentist can make small adjustments to fit just right.
Before you leave, your dentist will show you how to wear and care for your mouthguard. With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last for several years.
Custom Mouthguards Vs. Over-the-Counter
Mouthguards help protect your teeth from injury, grinding, or clenching. You can buy over-the-counter (OTC) mouthguards at most drugstores, but custom mouthguards made by a dentist offer many more benefits. While OTC options may be cheaper and easier to find, they don’t fit well or last as long.
1. Better Fit
A custom mouthguard is made just for your mouth. Your dentist takes an impression or 3D scan of your teeth and sends it to a lab, where the guard is made to match your bite perfectly. This means it fits snugly and comfortably. In contrast, store-bought mouthguards come in standard sizes and may feel bulky or loose. A poor fit can make it hard to talk, breathe, or even keep the mouthguard in place.
2. More Comfort
Because a custom mouthguard is made to fit your exact teeth and gums, it feels more comfortable when you wear it. It won’t rub against your cheeks or feel too tight in certain spots. People who wear mouthguards while sleeping often find it much easier to fall asleep and stay asleep with a custom fit.
3. Better Protection
Custom mouthguards provide stronger protection because they cover your teeth evenly and stay in place. This is especially important for athletes or people who grind their teeth at night. A good fit protects your teeth, gums, and jaw from hard hits, pressure, or long-term damage. Store-bought mouthguards might shift around or wear down quickly, making them less effective over time.
4. Lasts Longer
Custom mouthguards are made from higher-quality materials than most OTC versions. They are built to withstand heavy use, whether worn during sports or every night for teeth grinding. With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years, while cheaper versions may need to be replaced every few months.
5. Personalized for Your Needs
Custom mouthguards can be made for different uses. Some are designed to protect teeth during sports, while others are made for nighttime grinding or even to help with jaw pain or TMJ problems. Store-bought mouthguards usually serve only one general purpose and may not work well for specific dental issues.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards are the best choice to protect your teeth. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
The lifespan of a custom mouthguard depends on usage and care, but most last between 1 and 5 years. Mouthguards used for sports may wear out faster due to impact, while nightguards for bruxism can last longer with proper maintenance. Regular checkups with your dentist will help determine when a replacement is needed. Proper cleaning and storage can also extend its lifespan.
Are custom mouthguards comfortable?
Yes, custom mouthguards are designed to fit precisely, making them more comfortable than store-bought alternatives. Since they are molded to your teeth, they don’t feel bulky or shift around in your mouth. A properly fitted mouthguard allows for easy breathing and speaking, making it more convenient to wear for extended periods.
How do I know if my custom mouthguard fits properly?
A well-fitting custom mouthguard should feel snug but not too tight. It should stay in place without needing to be held in by your tongue or teeth. If it causes discomfort, difficulty breathing, or slips out easily, it may need adjustments. Your dentist will ensure a proper fit during your visit and make modifications if necessary.
Can I drink or eat while wearing a custom mouthguard?
Eating while wearing a mouthguard is not recommended, as food particles can get trapped and increase the risk of bacteria buildup. Drinking water is generally fine, but avoid sugary or acidic drinks, as they can cause plaque buildup on the mouthguard and your teeth. Always remove your mouthguard before eating and clean it before placing it back in your mouth.
Can I sleep with my custom sports mouthguard?
Sports mouthguards are not designed for nighttime wear, as they are thicker and bulkier than nightguards used for bruxism. If you grind your teeth at night, you should use a custom nightguard specifically designed for that purpose. Using the wrong type of mouthguard can cause discomfort and may not protect your teeth and jaw.
Can a custom mouthguard break?
While custom mouthguards are made from durable materials, they can still wear out or break over time. Chewing on your mouthguard, exposing it to high temperatures, or not storing it properly can weaken the material. Regularly inspecting your mouthguard for cracks or signs of wear will help ensure it continues to provide effective protection.