With so many cheap options available at your local pharmacy or sporting goods store, patients often ask the question “Do I need a custom-made mouthguard from my dentist?” While these over-the-counter mouthguards may sound appealing, it’s important that patients understand the difference between them and a professionally-made mouthguard from their dentist.
Today, your dentist will compare these two types of mouthguards and provide a recommendation. It’s crucial that your child’s mouth is fully protected not just for your peace of mind, but for their ongoing development.
What to Expect from Store-Bought Mouthguards
Since over-the-counter mouthguards are mass produced, the material that’s used is intentionally made thinner so consumers can customize it to their mouth. Out of the package, these mouthguards come out smooth and u-shaped ready to be molded to your smile.
To be fitted, you’ll need to perform what is known as a “boil and bite” fitting. This is done by placing the mouthguard into boiling water to make the plastic soft and pliable. After heated, the mouthguard is placed into the mouth and gently bitten down. If adjustments are needed, they can be easily done with either scissors or a razor blade.
While these mouthguards can provide some protection, the thinner material will prevent them from lasting as long as you’d prefer. Of course, this choice makes them the cheaper option, and a boil and bite mouthguard is better than no mouthguard at all. However, you can expect them to last a few months before breaking or no longer fitting your teeth.
How Custom-Made Mouthguards Compare
The biggest difference between store-bought mouthguards and custom-made mouthguards is the process in which they’re made and the materials used to make them. Custom-fitted versions are made from thermoplastic, which is far more durable than the plastic you’ll find in the store. They’re also prescribed and designed by a dental professional, meaning they’re far more likely to fit your teeth exactly.
Your dentist will also factor how you’ll use them before fabrication, meaning he’ll use a different process when making sports mouthguards compared to nightguards used for chronic teeth grinding. To create them, your dentist uses a dental putty to obtain a mold. While they may cost more, they don’t need to replaced nearly as often, and typically last a few years.
Which One Should You Choose?
In conclusion, your dentist will always recommend the option that better fits your teeth, offers better protection, and is more cost-effective. For these reasons, he’s determined that the custom-fitted option offers more bang for your buck.
While store-bought versions offer quick a solution for athletic patients, they can’t stand up to the durability and customization your dentist can offer. To get your child the sports guard they deserve, schedule an appointment with your dentist today!
About the Author
When it comes to performance athletic mouthguards, Dr. James A. Moreau Jr. is the dentist to speak to. Thanks to his expertise, Dr. Moreau Jr. was asked by Pure Power Mouthguard to help custom fit mouthguards for several New Orleans Saints players. To learn more about his process for creating your athletic mouthguards, contact him through his website.