Your dentist can make you a custom-fitted mouthguard for sport. You have seen cheap versions in sports shops. Here is why the custom option offers vastly better protection — and why it might be required by your sport governing body.
What Is a Custom-Fitted Mouthguard?
A custom-fitted mouthguard is made specifically for your teeth. Your dentist takes an impression or scan of your teeth and uses it to create a mouthguard that fits precisely. No two are the same. It is designed for the unique shape of your mouth and your teeth.
This is different from shop-bought boil-and-bite guards, which are made to a generic shape and softened in hot water to try and match your teeth. They rarely fit as well, and they do not offer the same level of protection.
Why the Fit Matters So Much
A mouthguard only protects you if it stays in place during impact. If it is loose or poorly fitted, it can shift during a game — or worse, come off entirely when you need it most. A custom fit means it stays exactly where it should be, even during fast, physical play.
A well-fitted mouthguard also allows you to breathe and speak normally. If it is uncomfortable, you are far more likely to remove it or not wear it at all. Comfort and protection go hand in hand.
Better Protection, Lower Risk of Injury
Research shows that custom-fitted mouthguards offer superior shock absorption compared to off-the-shelf versions. They reduce the force transmitted to your teeth and jaw, lowering the risk of chips, fractures, dislocations, and knocked-out teeth.
They also last longer. A quality custom mouthguard, looked after well, can last a full season or more. Shop-bought versions tend to wear out faster and lose their protective shape.
Check Your Sport Rules
Many sports governing bodies now require players to wear a properly fitted mouthguard — not just any mouthguard. Some make this mandatory for matches and training. If you are playing at a competitive level, check your sport specific requirements.
A custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist may be exactly what your sport demands. It is an investment in your smile and your sporting career.
Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com
Meads Village Dental Practice