When it comes to protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw, mouthguards play a crucial role. While over-the-counter options may seem convenient and budget-friendly, they often fall short when it comes to comfort, protection, and durability. This is where custom mouthguards stand out. Designed specifically for your mouth, a custom mouthguard offers a range of benefits that make it the smarter choice for both athletes and those dealing with nighttime dental issues.
Superior Fit and Comfort
One of the most noticeable differences between a custom mouthguard and a store-bought version is the fit. Custom mouthguards are made using molds of your teeth for a snug and comfortable fit. This personalized fit helps the mouthguard stay securely in place, even during intense physical activity or throughout the night.
Over-the-counter mouthguards are designed to fit as many people as possible. This means they often end up fitting no one particularly well. They can be bulky, uncomfortable, or require frequent adjustments. A poorly fitting mouthguard can make it hard to breathe, speak, or focus on your activity, all of which can be distracting and even dangerous.
Enhanced Protection
The primary purpose of a mouthguard is to protect your teeth, jaw, and surrounding tissues. Custom mouthguards are crafted to offer maximum protection by distributing force evenly across your teeth and minimizing the risk of injury. Because they fit so precisely, they are less likely to shift or dislodge during impact. This reduces the chances of serious dental trauma.
For athletes, this level of protection can make a significant difference in preventing chipped or broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and even concussions. For those dealing with bruxism (teeth grinding), a custom nightguard could help prevent long-term wear and damage to the teeth. It could also help reduce jaw pain and improve sleep quality.
Durability and Longevity
Custom mouthguards are typically made from higher-quality materials than store-bought versions. This makes them more durable and capable of withstanding regular use over time. While the initial cost of a custom mouthguard may be higher, its longevity often makes it a more cost-effective option in the long run. Custom mouthguards are designed to endure the specific forces exerted by your teeth and jaw. Whether you’re clenching during a sports match or grinding your teeth at night, a custom guard is built to handle your unique bite pattern.
Tailored for Your Needs
Not everyone needs a mouthguard for the same reason. Some use them for high-impact sports like football, hockey, or boxing. Others may need them to address issues like snoring, sleep apnea, or nighttime teeth grinding. A custom mouthguard can be tailored to meet your exact needs and lifestyle. Your dentist can work with you to design a guard that addresses your specific concerns. This level of customization isn’t something you can get from a generic, store-bought product.
Better Compliance and Performance
A mouthguard that fits well and feels comfortable is one that you’re more likely to use consistently. Athletes who are confident in their gear tend to perform better, and patients who wear their nightguards regularly often see better results. Custom mouthguards remove the barriers that often lead to non-compliance, such as discomfort, poor fit, or difficulty speaking and breathing. By making the experience more comfortable and seamless, custom mouthguards support better habits and ultimately better outcomes.
Custom Mouthguards in Plano, TX
At Aesthetic Dentistry Center, we are dedicated to preserving your oral health. If you play contact sports or grind your teeth, a custom mouthguard can help prevent damage and injury. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of preventative care.