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Every year, athletes at every level face the real possibility of dental and facial injuries. Collisions, falls, and impacts from equipment can damage teeth, soft tissues, and even the jaw. For patients who participate in contact sports or activities where objects travel at high speeds, a mouthguard is a simple, proven barrier that reduces the force transmitted to the mouth and surrounding structures.
Beyond protecting individual teeth, a properly fitted mouthguard can help preserve the alignment and function of the bite by absorbing and redistributing impact energy. That protection matters not only for immediate injuries—like a fractured tooth or a lacerated lip—but also for preventing long-term complications such as tooth loss, root damage, and TMJ problems that may arise after trauma.
Installing protection during practices and games is a preventative step that complements helmets and other safety gear. For parents and athletes alike, choosing the right mouthguard is a practical measure that lowers the risk of expensive and invasive dental treatment down the road, while keeping athletes safer and more confident on the field.
Sports mouthguards come in three main styles, each offering a different balance between convenience, fit, and protection. Stock or “ready-to-wear” guards are pre-formed and inexpensive, but they often fit poorly and can interfere with breathing or speech. Boil-and-bite guards offer improved fit because they soften in hot water and are molded to the wearer’s teeth, yet they still may not match the support and cushioning of a tailor-made device.
Custom mouthguards are fabricated in a dental laboratory from impressions taken by a dental professional. These provide the best fit, superior retention, and consistent protection because they are made to precisely match the contours of an individual’s mouth. Patients typically report better comfort and less distraction when wearing a custom appliance compared with over-the-counter alternatives.
When evaluating options, consider the sport’s level of contact, how often the guard will be worn, and the athlete’s comfort and breathing needs. A mouthguard that is uncomfortable or interferes with performance is less likely to be used consistently, so fit and function should guide the decision as much as cost or convenience.
Custom mouthguards are designed to provide a tailored fit that enhances protection without sacrificing comfort. Because they are fabricated from precise dental impressions or digital scans, they remain stable during play and minimize the chance of dislodgement during an impact. This stability reduces the risk of biting down awkwardly or suffering soft tissue injuries when contact occurs.
Material quality and thickness are also controlled in the custom process, allowing dentists to balance cushioning and bulk to meet individual needs. For high-impact sports or athletes with previous dental trauma, a denser, multi-layered custom guard can dissipate forces more effectively than a generic alternative. The result is a device that protects teeth and supporting structures while allowing for clearer speech and easier breathing.
Another advantage of custom guards is durability. Because they are made with professional-grade materials and crafted to fit accurately, they tend to last longer when properly cared for. That reliability makes them a sensible choice for athletes who practice and compete regularly and for families seeking long-term peace of mind.
Orthodontic treatment and recent dental restorations change how a mouthguard should be designed. Brackets and wires can lacerate soft tissue during an impact, so patients with braces often need a mouthguard that offers extra coverage and protective spacing. A custom mouthguard can be adapted to clear brackets and protect both teeth and appliances without compromising orthodontic progress.
Similarly, patients who have crowns, bridges, or dental implants require a guard that accommodates these restorations while maintaining even force distribution. A dental team can assess any vulnerable areas and recommend design modifications—such as reinforced sections or different thickness profiles—to protect restorative work and adjacent teeth.
For children and adolescents, growth must be factored into the plan. Young athletes may need periodic adjustments or replacement guards as their mouths develop. A dental professional can recommend appropriate timing and monitor fit over time so that protective benefits remain consistent throughout growth and treatment stages.
Proper care keeps a mouthguard hygienic and functional. Rinse the appliance with cool water after each use and allow it to air dry before storing it in a ventilated case. Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or a mild soap; avoid hot water and harsh chemical cleaners that can warp materials. Regular inspection for tears, thinning, or distortion helps catch problems early.
Signs that a mouthguard needs replacement include visible wear, changes in fit, or new discomfort during use. An appliance that no longer seats properly or allows excessive movement during play no longer provides reliable protection and should be evaluated by a dental professional. Likewise, if an athlete sustains a significant facial impact while wearing a mouthguard, the device should be checked for hidden damage that could compromise its performance.
Storage between uses is important too: keep the guard in its case, away from direct heat and out of reach of pets. Bringing the mouthguard to dental appointments allows the team to verify fit and recommend adjustments or remakes as needed, ensuring continued protection throughout the season.
At West Chicago Smiles, we view sports mouthguards as an essential element of athletic safety. A properly chosen and maintained mouthguard reduces the likelihood of dental injury, protects restorative work and orthodontics, and helps athletes perform without distraction. If you’re considering a mouthguard for yourself or a family member, contact us to discuss the best option for your sport, age, and dental needs.
