Differences Between Dentist-Made and Retail Sports Mouthguards

Sports are a crucial part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but they often come with the risk of dental injuries. A mouthguard is an essential piece of safety equipment that protects the teeth, mouth, and jaw during contact sports.

There are primarily two types of sports mouthguards available: dentist-made and retail. Understanding the differences between them can help you make an informed decision about which is best for your needs.

Dentist-Made Sports Mouthguards

Custom-fit mouthguards, provided by dental professionals, are tailored to fit the unique dental structure of an individual. Dentist-made mouthguards offer:

• Custom-fit. A dentist takes a detailed impression of your teeth to ensure a precise fit. This approach ensures that the mouthguard fits properly, reducing the chances of it slipping or causing discomfort during use.
• Enhanced protection. With a custom fit, dentist-made mouthguards offer superior protection against injuries. By fitting closely to the teeth, these mouthguards can absorb the impact of a blow more effectively than their retail counterparts, significantly reducing the risk of trauma. Some research shows that custom-made mouthguards may even reduce the risk of concussion in impact sports [1].
• Better comfort. Dentist-made mouthguards tend to be more comfortable. Since they are tailored specifically for your mouth, they fit securely, making it easier to speak, breathe, and focus on the game without distraction, making sports players more likely to wear them [2].
• Durability. Crafted from high-quality materials, custom mouthguards are generally more durable and can withstand repeated usage over time. This durability can make them a cost-effective choice in the long term, as they don’t need frequent replacement.

Retail Sports Mouthguards

Retail mouthguards are readily available in stores and online, offering a more generalized fit. They are usually classified into two categories:

1. Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are often the least expensive option but provide the least protection and comfort. Since they don’t conform tightly to your unique smile, retail mouthguards don’t absorb impact as well as custom models [3]. This looser fit can also be uncomfortable, leading to potential distractions during sports activities.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These are slightly customizable. The user softens the thermoplastic material in hot water, places it into their mouth, and shapes it using fingers and tongue pressure. However, boil-and-bite mouthguards fail to replicate the comfort and fit of custom-made guards.

Although wearing a retail mouth guard is better than no protection at all, a custom-made mouthguard is always the better option for complete protection and comfort.

Ask Your Dentist About Custom Mouthguards Today

Investing in the right sports mouthguard is an investment in your dental health and overall safety. A custom-made mouthguard offers unsurpassed protection and comfort, ensuring peace of mind while engaging in sports. For personalized advice and to explore custom-fit options, contact your dentist today. Protect your smile and enjoy the game with confidence with the right mouthguard!

Sources:

1. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140501101133.htm 
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002817794580127# 
3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/11354441_A_comparison_of_commercially_available_mouthguards_and_a_custom_mouthguard