Whether you’re an athlete, a night-time teeth grinder, or someone recovering from dental work, protecting your mouth should be a priority. Mouthguards are essential for preventing dental injuries. However, not all mouthguards are created equal. Over-the-counter options may be quick and inexpensive, but they often fall short when it comes to comfort, fit, and effectiveness. A custom mouthguard offers a level of protection and comfort that generic models simply can’t match.
Personalized Fit for Maximum Comfort
One of the most significant benefits of a custom mouthguard is the personalized fit. Store-bought versions come in standard sizes or require boiling and biting for a semi-custom shape. Your dentist uses a precise mold of your teeth to create your guard. This better ensures that the guard fits snugly and securely. Custom guards could allow you to breathe, speak, and even sleep with ease.
A comfortable fit is more than a luxury, it’s a necessity. Athletes who wear ill-fitting mouthguards are less likely to keep them in place, reducing their protective benefits. Similarly, individuals who grind their teeth at night may remove a poorly fitting guard unconsciously during sleep, negating its purpose entirely. A custom mouthguard could eliminate these issues by staying put and remaining comfortable for extended use.
Superior Protection
The primary purpose of any mouthguard is to protect your teeth and surrounding structures. Custom mouthguards provide a level of shock absorption and distribution that off-the-shelf versions can’t offer. They are designed to fit your mouth perfectly. Therefore they can cushion impacts more effectively, reducing the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and concussions.
For athletes, this level of protection can mean the difference between a minor bump and a serious dental emergency. Even for non-contact sports like gymnastics or mountain biking, the risk of oral injury is present. Physical activity of any kind makes a custom mouthguard a smart investment in long-term dental health.
Durability and Longevity
Custom mouthguards are made from high-quality materials designed to withstand significant wear and tear. This is particularly important for individuals who grind their teeth at night. Over-the-counter guards often wear out quickly, losing their shape and effectiveness in a matter of months. A custom night guard, however, often endures heavy grinding. It often lasts significantly longer and provides consistent protection night after night.
Because they are more durable, custom mouthguards may actually be more cost-effective in the long run. Replacing multiple over-the-counter guards over time can add up. One custom-fitted device may serve you well for years with proper care.
Professional Oversight
Professional oversight is another key advantage of choosing a custom guard. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, assess your bite, and ensure the final product aligns with your specific dental needs. This level of personalization is particularly important for people with braces, dental implants, or other oral appliances. In these cases, a one-size-fits-all solution could cause more harm than good. Additionally, your dentist can monitor the condition of your mouthguard during regular checkups and make any necessary adjustments. This better ensures your mouthguard continues to offer the best protection possible and allows for early detection of any changes in your oral health.
Custom Mouthguards in Washington, D.C.
At Foxhall Smiles, your oral health is our top priority. If you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth, a custom mouthguard could help prevent damage. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how you can protect your smile.