Mouthguards play an important role in protecting your teeth, whether you’re an athlete, a nighttime teeth grinder, or someone dealing with jaw pain. While store-bought mouthguards are easy to find and relatively inexpensive, they don’t offer the same level of protection or comfort as a custom mouthguard made by your dentist. Here are 4 key benefits of choosing a custom mouthguard over an over-the-counter option.
1. Superior Fit and Comfort
One of the biggest advantages of a custom mouthguard is its precise fit. Custom mouthguards are made using impressions or digital scans of your teeth, ensuring they contour perfectly to your unique smile. This snug fit makes the mouthguard comfortable to wear for long periods, especially important for nightguards or athletes who need them during extended activities.
Store-bought mouthguards are designed to fit “most” mouths, which often means they’re bulky, loose, or uncomfortable. A poor fit can cause irritation, jaw soreness, or even breathing difficulties, making people less likely to wear them consistently.
2. Better Protection Against Injury and Damage
Custom mouthguards provide a higher level of protection because they stay securely in place. This stability allows them to absorb and distribute impact more effectively, reducing the risk of chipped teeth, fractures, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage.
Over-the-counter mouthguards can shift during use, especially during sports or while sleeping. If a mouthguard moves out of position, it may fail to protect your teeth when you need it most.
3. Designed for Your Specific Needs
Custom mouthguards are tailored to address your specific situation, whether it’s teeth grinding, jaw clenching, contact sports, or non-contact athletic activities. Dentists can adjust thickness, material, and design to provide the right balance of protection and comfort.
Store-bought options are one-size-fits-all and can’t be customized beyond basic boiling and molding. This limits their effectiveness, especially for people with orthodontic appliances, dental restorations, or severe grinding habits.
4. Long-Term Value and Durability
Although custom mouthguards have a higher upfront cost, they often last much longer than store-bought versions. They’re made from durable, high-quality materials designed to withstand repeated use without breaking down or losing their shape.
In contrast, over-the-counter mouthguards wear out quickly and may need frequent replacement, adding up in cost over time. More importantly, a custom mouthguard helps prevent costly dental injuries, making it a smart long-term investment.
When it comes to protecting your teeth and jaw, quality matters. A custom mouthguard offers comfort, protection, and durability that store-bought options simply can’t match, helping you safeguard your smile with confidence.
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing is a pediatric dentist based in Papillion. He graduated with honors from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry before completing a pediatric residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. During a career spanning 15 years, Dr. Cushing has regularly taken continuing education courses and stays on top of the latest breakthroughs through memberships with the American Dental Association, the Nebraska Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. If your young athlete needs a custom mouthguard, we can help! Schedule an appointment online or call (402) 773-7873.