Teeth are strong, but they’re not invincible. Whether you grind them at night or play a sport that puts your mouth at risk, the right kind of guard can make all the difference. A custom-fitted mouth or night guard helps cushion impact, reduce strain, and prevent damage that might otherwise require major dental work later on.
Although they are sometimes referred to as "boil-and-bite," the one-size-fits-all guards you get in supermarkets may provide some basic protection, they rarely fit properly. They can even obstruct breathing or speech, feel heavy, and move about as you move. Even worse, a bad fit results in less protection when it's most required.
Conversely, custom guards are made to precisely fit your teeth. Built for your mouth, not someone else's, they use computer scans or actual imprints. This translates to increased comfort, reduced distraction, and more dependable security.
Sports guards lower the chance of jaw injuries, cut lips, and broken teeth by absorbing impact. Whether it's basketball, hockey, or martial arts, the design may be modified to fit the type of contact required by changing elements like thickness and flexibility.
If you clench or grind your teeth while sleeping (a condition known as bruxism), a night guard provides a soft or semi-rigid barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This helps reduce jaw strain and prevents long-term enamel wear. Custom night guards are less bulky than store-bought options and are made to stay in place without disturbing your sleep.
High-quality materials are crucial. Whether used on the pitch or at night, a well-made guard should maintain its shape, not break easily, and withstand regular usage. When properly maintained, custom guards are also less prone to harbour germs and are simpler to keep clean.
It's a good idea to get it examined on a regular basis at dental checkups if you currently wear one. A good fit now does not necessarily translate into a good fit after a year, particularly if your bite has altered.
A correctly fitting guard serves as the first line of defence when your teeth are under stress, whether from impact or continuous grinding. This minor investment can avert more significant issues down the road.
Need to be fitted for a mouth or night guard?