Looking for a dentist who fits athletic mouthguards and makes the process quick and easy for busy families? That's exactly what we aim for.
Benefits of a Custom-Fitted Sports Mouthguard
A custom guard is built from a mold of your own teeth, so it sits securely without slipping or gagging you mid-play. It spreads out the force of a bump or fall more evenly than a thin, one-size-fits-all guard, and it's thin enough that talking and breathing during a game still feels natural. Because it's made to order, it also tends to hold up better over a season than a boil-and-bite version bought at a sporting goods store. This service is part of our broader Specialty & Comfort Care offerings, alongside gentle options like TMJ Therapy for patients dealing with jaw discomfort.
Who Needs an Athletic Mouthguard
Any athlete in a contact or high-impact sport can benefit from a custom mouthguard, including football, hockey, wrestling, basketball, and even activities like skateboarding or gymnastics. We see plenty of young athletes come in for fittings, and they are a great fit since we can adjust the guard as their smile grows and changes. Adults staying active in rec leagues benefit just as much. If you're already bringing the kids in for regular checkups, our Children's & Family Dentistry team can build a guard fitting right into that same visit.
What to Expect at Your Fitting Appointment
Getting fitted is quick and comfortable. Instead of the messy putty trays some offices still use, we often use our Digital Impressions (iTero) scanner to capture an exact digital model of your teeth in just a few minutes. From there, your guard is custom designed and sent off for fabrication, and we'll let you know when it's ready for pickup. Most patients are in and out of the chair in well under an hour, which makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Store-bought guards are convenient in a pinch, but they trade fit and comfort for a lower upfront cost. Here's how the two options compare side by side.
| Feature | Custom Mouthguard | Store-Bought Guard |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Molded to your exact bite | One-size or boil-and-bite, often loose |
| Comfort | Thin, allows normal speech and breathing | Bulky, can feel awkward |
| Durability | Built to last a season or more | Wears out or tears quickly |
| Protection | Even, consistent cushioning | Uneven fit can shift during play |
| Value over time | Fewer replacements needed | Often replaced multiple times a season |
If comfort and a secure fit matter to your athlete, a custom guard is usually the better long-term choice. For patients who also deal with clenching or jaw tension during high-stress games, our Laser Dentistry treatments can help with related soft-tissue comfort as well.
