Custom Mouthguards

Protecting Your Smile in Downers Grove

Whether your family is gearing up for a new sports season or dealing with nighttime teeth grinding, custom mouthguards offer protection that store-bought options simply can’t match. At Jackson Family Dentistry, we provide custom mouthguards designed to fit your unique bite, keeping your teeth, gums, and jaw safe from injury. If you’ve been searching for a custom mouthguard in Downers Grove, IL, our team is ready to help you find the right solution for your needs.

Why Custom Mouthguards Matter

Over-the-counter mouthguards may seem convenient, but they often fit poorly, shift during activity, and can even make breathing and speaking difficult. Custom mouthguards are made from precise digital scans of your teeth, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place when you need it most. This precision fit is especially important for protecting against chipped teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage.

Custom Mouthguards for Sports

Athletes of all ages face a real risk of dental injury during contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and soccer. A custom mouthguard cushions the teeth and jaw against impacts, reducing the likelihood of cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, or jaw fractures. Because these mouthguards are built specifically for your mouth, they’re more comfortable to wear for extended practices and games, which means athletes are more likely to actually keep them in during play instead of removing them.

Parents in the Downers Grove area often ask about protecting their kids’ developing smiles during youth sports. Custom mouthguards can be remade as children grow and their teeth shift, ensuring continued protection throughout the season. As a Volunteer Team Dentist for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee and Past President of the Academy for Sports Dentistry, Dr. Jackson has spent years in sports dentistry.

Custom Mouthguards for Teeth Grinding

Not all custom mouthguards are for sports. Many patients grind or clench their teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. Left untreated, bruxism can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, and even lead to headaches or TMJ discomfort. A custom night guard creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the pressure from grinding and helping protect your smile while you sleep.

The Process of Getting a Custom Mouthguard

Getting fitted for custom mouthguards at Jackson Family Dentistry is a straightforward process:

1. Consultation: We’ll discuss your needs, whether for sports protection, grinding relief, or both.
2. Digital Scan: We capture a precise 3D scan of your teeth with our iTero scanner, no goopy impression trays required.
3. Fabrication: Your mouthguard is custom-made based on your scan, using durable materials designed for your specific use.
4. Fitting: Once your mouthguard is ready, we’ll check the fit and make any necessary adjustments for comfort.

Benefits of Choosing Custom Mouthguards

• Superior Fit: Custom mouthguards are shaped to your exact bite, unlike generic boil-and-bite options.
• Better Comfort: A well-fitted mouthguard allows for easier breathing and speaking during activity.
• Increased Durability: Custom mouthguards are made from higher-quality materials that hold up better over time.
• Targeted Protection: Whether for sports or grinding, custom mouthguards are designed for the specific forces they need to withstand.
• Improved Compliance: Because they’re comfortable, patients are more likely to wear them consistently, which means better protection overall.

Caring for Your Custom Mouthguard

To keep your custom mouthguard in good condition, rinse it with water before and after each use, and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Store it in a ventilated case when not in use, and avoid exposing it to high heat, which can warp the material. Bring your mouthguard to your regular dental visits so we can check its fit and condition over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a custom mouthguard last?

With proper care, most custom mouthguards last one to several years, though athletes and growing children may need replacements more often as teeth shift or the material wears down.

Is getting a custom mouthguard covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan and by whether the mouthguard is for sports or a medical condition like bruxism. Our team can help you understand your specific benefits.

Can I get a custom mouthguard if I wear braces or clear aligners?

Yes. Clear aligners can be removed while a mouthguard is worn during practice or a game. With braces, we can design a custom mouthguard that accommodates them to keep your smile protected during treatment.

Do custom mouthguards work for both children and adults?

Absolutely. We provide custom mouthguards for patients of all ages, and we remake them as needed for growing smiles.

Is it worth getting a custom mouthguard instead of a boil-and-bite one?

A custom mouthguard fits precisely, stays in place, and is comfortable enough that patients actually keep it in, while boil-and-bite guards are bulkier, prone to shifting, and often get removed mid-activity out of annoyance. The extra cost and short wait for fabrication are worth it for protection that’s actually reliable.

Protect Your Smile Today

Whether you need a custom mouthguard for the upcoming sports season or relief from nighttime grinding, Jackson Family Dentistry is here to help. Eric G. Jackson, DDS brings more than 20 years of experience to every fitting, ensuring your custom mouthguard offers the comfort and protection you deserve. If you’re looking for a custom mouthguard in Downers Grove, IL, our friendly team is ready to guide you through the process from consultation to final fit. Reach out today to schedule your appointment and give your smile the protection it deserves.