The author of the article
Boris Lipovetskiy, DMD, 31 years experience
There are three main types of mouth guards on the market: standard, thermoplastic, and custom-made (fabricated by a dentist). Each type has its own features, advantages, and disadvantages. Read this material to the end to learn about the pros and cons of each option. This will help you make the right choice and upkeep the health of your teeth.
Standard (Ready-Made) Mouth Guards
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Accessibility. These mouth guards are easy to find in sporting goods stores or pharmacies. They are ready to use immediately after purchase. -
Price. This is the most affordable option, suitable for those who do not want to spend a lot of money on dental protection. -
Convenience. No additional preparation is required—just open the package and start wearing the mouth guard.
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Lack of individual fit. Standard mouth guards come in one or several sizes that may not fit your jaw specifically, making them less comfortable. -
Comfort. Due to the lack of precise fitting, these mouth guards may rub against the gums or hinder breathing through the mouth. -
Protection. Since they do not conform to the shape of your teeth and mouth, their protective properties may be insufficient during strong impacts or prolonged use.
Thermoplastic Mouth Guards (Boil and Bite)
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Individual fit. These guards are made from a material that softens when heated in hot water. After that, you bite into the guard, and it takes the shape of your teeth and mouth, providing a better fit compared to ready-made guards. -
Price. They are more expensive than standard guards but still quite affordable for most people. -
Protection and comfort. Thanks to the ability to adjust, they offer better protection and are more comfortable to wear in the mouth than standard models.
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Complexity of the process. The fitting process may require some experience. If you perform the procedure incorrectly, the guard may not take the desired shape, reducing its effectiveness. -
Wear and tear. Over time, thermoplastic guards may lose their shape, especially if you use them frequently or store them improperly.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
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Best fit. Custom guards are made by a dentist based on an impression of your teeth and mouth, ensuring maximum fitting accuracy. -
Comfort. Thanks to precise fitting, these guards are virtually unnoticeable in the mouth and do not interfere with breathing or speaking. -
Protection. This is the most reliable option, providing maximum protection for teeth, gums, and mouth, which is especially important for professional athletes or people with severe cases of bruxism.
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Price. Having a guard made by a dentist is the most expensive option, so it may not be the best choice for some clients.
Which Option Is Better?
The choice of a mouth guard depends on your goals and financial capabilities. If you need quick and inexpensive mouth protection, standard guards are a reasonable solution, although they may not provide maximum comfort. For those who seek better fitting and are willing to spend a bit more, thermoplastic guards are the golden mean between price and quality.
Custom-made mouth guards, though more expensive, provide the best protection and comfort. They are especially suitable for those who regularly engage in contact sports or suffer from severe forms of bruxism that affect the mouth and teeth.
When Should I Consult a Specialist?
If you take your dental protection seriously or have already faced injuries or jaw problems, it's always better to consult a dentist. A professional can not only help you choose a guard but also offer additional mouth protective measures depending on your individual needs.
