Custom Sportsguards for Every Athlete
Sports mouthguards—also known as sportsguards—are a vital piece of protective gear for athletes of all ages. Unfortunately, despite the high number of dental injuries and tooth loss reported each year, mouthguards are often overlooked or not used consistently.
At our office, we’re strong advocates for preventive dental care, which includes custom-made sportsguards designed to protect your smile while you play. Many people assume that mouthguards are only necessary for high-contact sports like football or hockey. However, we recommend them for a wide range of activities—including those that may seem low-risk.
Sports like volleyball, soccer, gymnastics, mountain biking, and rollerblading all carry a risk of impact or falls that can result in dental injuries. Whether your sport is a solo activity or a team competition, wearing a properly fitted sportsguard can significantly reduce your risk of injury and keep your teeth safe.
What Is a Sports Mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is a protective device, usually made from molded plastic, designed to fit over the upper teeth in a U-shape. Its main purpose is to cushion the teeth and mouth during physical activity, reducing the risk of dental injuries caused by impact or collision. It protects not only the teeth but also the gums, cheeks, and tongue from cuts and trauma, and helps prevent the upper and lower teeth from clashing together during contact.
One common type of mouthguard is the over-the-counter or “stock” mouthguard. These are pre-made and widely available at drugstores and sporting goods shops. Made from plastic or durable rubber, they offer a general fit with a basic design that includes a trough for the teeth and a lip that extends to cover part of the gums. While stock mouthguards are the most affordable option, they tend to lack a personalized fit and may be less comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Ready-Made Sportsguards
Ready-made sportsguards, often referred to as over-the-counter or stock mouthguards, are widely available at pharmacies and sporting goods stores. They’re typically made from plastic or rigid rubber and feature a U-shaped design with a trough to hold the teeth and a raised edge to help protect the gums.
These guards come in a limited range of standard sizes and offer little to no customization, which can make them less comfortable than other options. While they are the most affordable choice, their fit and overall comfort are often compromised as a result.
Boil-and-Bite Sportsguards
A sports mouthguard is a protective device, usually made from molded plastic, designed to fit over the upper teeth in a U-shape. Its main purpose is to cushion the teeth and mouth during physical activity, reducing the risk of dental injuries caused by impact or collision. It protects not only the teeth but also the gums, cheeks, and tongue from cuts and trauma, and helps prevent the upper and lower teeth from clashing together during contact.
One common type of mouthguard is the over-the-counter or “stock” mouthguard. These are pre-made and widely available at drugstores and sporting goods shops. Made from plastic or durable rubber, they offer a general fit with a basic design that includes a trough for the teeth and a lip that extends to cover part of the gums. While stock mouthguards are the most affordable option, they tend to lack a personalized fit and may be less comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Custom Sportsguards
Custom sportsguards are professionally made by a dentist to fit an athlete’s mouth precisely. The process begins with taking a detailed impression of the teeth, typically by having the patient bite into a tray of dental material. From this mold, a stone model is created, which is then used to fabricate the mouthguard using durable plastic—either through pouring or vacuum-forming techniques.
Because they’re made from an exact replica of the patient’s mouth, custom sportsguards provide a secure, comfortable fit. They’re less likely to shift during use and allow for easier breathing and speaking. While they are the most expensive type of mouthguard, we highly recommend them for their superior protection, comfort, and durability—making them well worth the investment for athletes who want the best in both safety and performance.
