When it comes to protecting your teeth and mouth while playing sports, many people opt for over-the-counter mouthguards they can buy at a pharmacy or sporting goods store. While these mouthguards may seem like a convenient and budget-friendly option, they are often ill-fitting and ineffective. On the other hand, custom made sports mouthguards provide a much higher level of protection and comfort, making them the preferred choice for athletes at all levels. In this blog, we'll explore the reasons why custom made mouthguards are a better choice.

1.    Perfect Fit:  

One of the biggest advantages of custom made sports mouthguards is that they are tailored specifically to fit your mouth. A dentist or orthodontist takes an impression of your teeth, and the mouthguard is then moulded to fit your unique dental structure. This ensures a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place during physical activity, providing maximum protection to your teeth and mouth. Over-the-counter mouthguards, on the other hand, are one-size-fits-all and often slip around in the mouth, reducing their effectiveness.

2.    Enhanced Protection:

Custom made sports mouthguards are designed to protect not just your teeth, but also your gums, jaw, and other oral structures. They are made with high-quality materials that absorb and distribute the impact of a blow, reducing the risk of injury to your mouth. Over-the-counter mouthguards, on the other hand, are often made with cheaper materials that provide less protection and can actually cause injury if they break or slip out of place.

3.    Improved Breathing and Communication:

Custom made sports mouthguards are designed with the athlete in mind, taking into account the specific needs of different sports. Over-the-counter mouthguards often interfere with breathing and speaking, which can be distracting and reduce an athlete's performance.

4.    Durability:

Custom made sports mouthguards are made with high-quality materials that are designed to last. They are designed to withstand the demands of high-impact sports and can provide protection for multiple seasons. Over-the-counter mouthguards, on the other hand, are often made with cheaper materials that break or wear down quickly, requiring frequent replacement.

Custom made sports mouthguards provide a higher level of protection, comfort, and performance for athletes. While over-the-counter mouthguards may seem like a convenient and budget-friendly option, they simply can't match the quality and effectiveness of a custom-made mouthguard. If you're an athlete, make the investment in a custom made mouthguard and protect your mouth from injury while playing your favourite sport, and don’t forget to use your mouthguard during training sessions – this is where most injuries occur! For more information, see the fantastic resources at teeth.org.au