What Are the Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard?
If you play sports, grind your teeth at night, or just want to protect your smile from injury, you have probably considered a mouthguard. But not all mouthguards are created equal. A custom mouthguard, made specifically for your mouth by Dr. Eric Jackson and our team, offers a level of protection and comfort that off-the-shelf options simply cannot match.
At Jackson Family Dentistry in Downers Grove, we often talk to patients who have tried the boil-and-bite versions from the sporting goods aisle, only to find them uncomfortable, ill-fitting, or ineffective.
The Difference Between Store-Bought and Custom Mouthguards
Store-bought mouthguards come in generic sizes meant to fit as many people as possible, which usually means they fit no one particularly well. A custom mouthguard, on the other hand, is created from an actual impression of your teeth. This means it hugs the contours of your mouth precisely, staying in place during activity or sleep without slipping, gagging, or requiring you to constantly bite down to hold it steady.
Why Does Fit Matter So Much?
A poorly fitting mouthguard is more than an annoyance. It can restrict breathing and speech during sports, which is why so many young athletes end up leaving their store-bought guards on the sideline instead of wearing them during play. A custom mouthguard is thin enough to allow normal talking and breathing while still delivering full protection where you need it.
For patients who grind or clench their teeth at night, a custom mouthguard also distributes biting forces more evenly, reducing strain on the jaw and helping prevent headaches, jaw pain, and worn-down teeth.
How Does a Custom Mouthguard Protect Your Teeth?
Whether you are on the field, on the court, or asleep in bed, a custom mouthguard acts as a cushion between your teeth and whatever force comes their way. It absorbs impact, protects against chipped or knocked-out teeth, and can help prevent injuries to your lips, cheeks, and tongue. For patients who wear dental crowns, veneers, or other dental work, a custom mouthguard is especially important, since these restorations can be expensive to repair or replace if damaged.
Who Should Consider a Custom Mouthguard?
You may benefit from a custom mouthguard if you:
- Play contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, or soccer
- Grind or clench your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism)
- Have braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances
- Have dental crowns, veneers, or implants you want to protect
- Experience frequent jaw pain, headaches, or worn tooth enamel
What Is the Process for Getting One?
Getting a custom mouthguard at Jackson Family Dentistry starts with a simple visit to our Downers Grove office. Dr. Eric Jackson will take a precise impression of your teeth, which is then used to design a mouthguard tailored exactly to your bite. Unlike store-bought versions that require awkward boiling and biting to shape, your custom mouthguard arrives ready to wear and requires no adjustment on your part. We will also check the fit at your appointment to make sure it feels comfortable and secure.
Is a Custom Mouthguard Worth the Investment?
Many patients wonder if a custom mouthguard is worth the extra cost compared to a drugstore version. When you consider the potential expense of repairing a chipped tooth, replacing a damaged crown, or treating an oral injury, the answer is almost always yes. A custom mouthguard is built to last, made from durable materials designed to withstand repeated use, and it will not need to be replaced as often as a generic one that wears out or loses its shape.
How Do You Care for a Custom Mouthguard?
Taking care of your custom mouthguard is simple. Rinse it with water after each use, brush it gently with a toothbrush, and store it in a ventilated case when not in use. Avoid exposing it to hot water or direct sunlight, as heat can warp the material. Bringing it along to your regular checkups at Jackson Family Dentistry also allows us to inspect it for wear and make sure it still fits properly as your teeth or bite may change over time.
Ready to Protect Your Smile?
Whether you need protection for the game or for a good night’s sleep, a custom mouthguard from Jackson Family Dentistry offers comfort, durability, and peace of mind that store-bought options cannot provide. Contact our Downers Grove office today to schedule a fitting and find out how a custom mouthguard can help safeguard your smile for years to come.
