Custom mouthguards are preferred over store-bought options because they are made from exact moulds of your teeth. This provides an accurate fit with superior protection and comfort, along with the ability to breathe and talk easily while wearing. Although over-the-counter forms are less expensive, they often will slip or come out of place and offer less protection against dental trauma. Finding a reliable dentist near you is the first step toward getting a mouthguard that actually stays in place during high-impact activities.
Why Does the Fit of a Mouthguard Matter?
A mouthguard is a protective device that covers your teeth and gums to prevent injury. If a guard does not fit snugly, it can fall out at the exact moment you get hit in the face. This leaves your smile vulnerable to chips, cracks, or even knocked-out teeth. Many people wonder if mouthguards in SE Calgary are necessary for everyone or just for professional players. The truth is that anyone participating in activities where a fall or contact is possible should consider one. A proper fit ensures the force of an impact is spread out evenly across your jaw.
Understanding the Different Types of Mouthguards
There are three main categories of mouthguards available today. Each one offers a different level of protection and comfort.
| Type | How it is Made | Best For |
| Stock | Pre-formed and ready to wear | Occasional, light use |
| Boil-and-Bite | Softened in water and bitten into | Budget-conscious athletes |
| Custom-Fit | Created from a professional dental mould | Maximum safety and daily sports |
What is a Stock Mouthguard?
Stock mouthguards are the most basic version you can buy at a sporting goods store. They come in “small, medium, or large” sizes and cannot be adjusted. Because they don’t fit your specific tooth shape, you often have to clench your teeth together to keep them in your mouth.
How Do Boil-and-Bite Guards Work?
Boil-and-bite guards are made from a special plastic that gets soft when heated. You place it in hot water and then bite down on it to shape it to your teeth. While better than stock guards, the material often gets thin in certain areas, which reduces the level of protection provided.
The Benefits of Professional Custom Guards
A professional guard is crafted in a dental lab using a physical or digital impression of your smile. This creates a device that is comfortable enough to wear for hours. People are searching “mouthguards near you” to find a clinic that can provide this level of personalized care and durability.
Who Really Needs a Mouthguard?
Many patients believe these devices are only for people playing football or hockey. However, dental injuries happen in many different settings. Any activity that involves speed, heights, or flying objects can pose a risk to your oral health. Some parents ask. “Are mouthguards only for athletes, or should they be used for other hobbies too?” Experts suggest wearing them for gymnastics, skateboarding, and even mountain biking. Even non-contact sports can result in a stray elbow or a hard fall onto the ground.
Comparing Quality and Cost
It is tempting to choose the cheapest option available at the store. However, the long-term cost of a dental injury is much higher than the price of a high-quality guard. Repairing a broken tooth or getting a dental implant can be expensive and painful. When deciding what type of mouthguard is best for your lifestyle, consider how often you will use it. If you play a sport several times a week, a custom guard is a smart investment. It will last longer and feel much better than a generic plastic piece from a box.
Some Aspects to Consider
- Breathability: Is it easy to breathe while wearing it?
- Speech: Are you able to converse with your team without getting upset?
- Thickness: Is the material thick enough to absorb a hard hit?
- Retention: Does it stay on your top teeth without you having to bite down?
How to Care for Your Mouthguard
Regardless of which type you choose, you must keep it clean to avoid bacterial buildup. You should rinse your guard with cool water and soap after every use. Never leave it in a hot car, as the heat can melt the plastic and ruin the fit. It is also important to bring your mouthguard to your regular dental checkups. Your provider can inspect it for signs of wear and tear. If you see cracks or if the edges start to feel sharp, it is time to replace it with a new one.
Keeping Your Smile Safe for the Long Run
Protecting your teeth is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. A single accident can change your smile forever, but a well-fitted guard significantly lowers that risk. While store-bought options are better than nothing, they cannot match the safety of a device made specifically for you. At Glenmore Family Dental Care, we believe in proactive protection for patients of every age. Our focus is on making high-quality custom guards that will allow you to focus on your game and not your teeth. We provide you with friendly, professional business services that aim to suit your requirements beyond our services. If you want to ensure your smile stays healthy during your favourite activities, we invite you to reach out and discuss your options with us.
FAQs:
1. How long does a custom mouthguard usually last?
Most custom guards last between six months and a few years. For growing children, they may need to be replaced more often as their adult teeth come in and their jaw shape changes.
2. Can I wear a mouthguard if I have braces?
Yes, it is actually very important to wear one with braces to protect your cheeks from the metal brackets. A dentist can create a special guard that fits over your braces comfortably.
3. Does a mouthguard protect against concussions?
While their main job is to protect teeth, some studies suggest they may help absorb some of the shock from an impact. However, they are not a guaranteed way to prevent concussions.
4. Why does my store-bought guard make me gag?
This usually happens because the guard is too bulky or extends too far back toward your throat. Custom guards are trimmed to fit your gum line perfectly, which usually solves the gagging problem.