Custom Mouthguards vs. Store-Bought: Is There Really a Difference?
Spring is here, and that means Lethbridge sports seasons are kicking back into gear. Whether your kid just signed up for soccer, you're jumping back into hockey, or someone in your house is heading into lacrosse, mouthguard season is officially here too.
Walk into any sporting goods store and you'll find a rack of mouthguards in every colour imaginable. They're cheap, they're fast, and they seem to do the job. But are they actually protecting your teeth the way you think?
Here's the honest answer: not quite.
What Is a Custom Mouthguard?
A custom mouthguard is made by a dentist using an impression of your actual teeth. A mould is taken of your mouth and a guard is fabricated specifically to your bite. The result is a guard that fits precisely, covers all the right surfaces, and stays in place during contact.
What Is a Store-Bought Mouthguard?
Store-bought mouthguards come in two main forms:
Stock mouthguards come pre-formed in a set size. They're the least expensive option, but they're bulky, often uncomfortable, and can make it hard to breathe or talk during a game.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are softened in hot water and shaped by biting down. They're a step up from stock guards and a popular choice for recreational athletes. The fit is still approximate, though, and they tend to degrade faster than custom options.
Why Does the Fit Actually Matter?
A mouthguard that doesn't fit well is a mouthguard that isn't doing its full job. A loose guard can shift during impact, leaving teeth and soft tissue partially unprotected. Athletes also tend to clench or chew on uncomfortable guards, which is distracting and wears the material down faster.
Custom mouthguards are also thicker and more durable where it counts. They distribute impact force more evenly, which offers better protection not just for your teeth but for your jaw as well.
Who Should Get a Custom Mouthguard?
Any athlete who plays a contact or collision sport regularly is a great candidate for a custom mouthguard. This includes:
Hockey players (all ages)
Football and rugby players
Lacrosse players
Basketball and soccer players (more contact than people expect)
Martial artists and boxers
Cyclists and skateboarders who fall frequently
Custom mouthguards are also a smart choice for anyone who has had significant dental work, including braces, crowns, or implants. The last thing you want is a fall on the field to damage a restoration.
What About Kids?
Kids' mouths change as they grow, so some parents wonder whether a custom mouthguard is worth the investment when their child might need a new one in a year or two. The good news is that children's custom mouthguards are very affordable, and we can advise you at each visit whether the current fit still works or whether it's time for a new one.
For kids in braces, a properly fitted mouthguard is especially important because brackets and wires can cause significant damage to the inside of the mouth during an impact.
How Long Does Getting a Custom Mouthguard Take?
Not long at all. We take an impression at your appointment, and your finished mouthguard is typically ready within one to two weeks. It's a straightforward process that makes a significant difference.
Ready to Get Started?
If spring sports season is around the corner, now is a great time to ask your dentist about mouthguard options at your next visit. Have questions? Give us a call at 403-327-3410.