Sports Mouthguards: Why They Matter
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Protect Your Smile and Performance with Custom-Fit Sports Mouthguards
A mouthguard cushions your teeth, gums, and jaw from impact, and is worth wearing for any contact or fast-moving sport. Here's why they matter and how the types compare.
Why wear a mouthguard
- Prevents dental injuries. It absorbs impact that could otherwise chip, fracture, or knock out a tooth. The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for around 30 sports, from football and basketball to hockey.
- Protects soft tissues. It shields your lips, cheeks, and tongue from cuts caused by accidental bites or blows.
- Lets you focus on the game. Knowing your teeth are protected is one less thing to think about on the field.
Types of mouthguard
| Type | Fit | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | Pre-formed, ready to wear | Cheapest, but bulky and least protective |
| Boil-and-bite | Softened in hot water, moulded at home | A closer fit than stock |
| Custom-fitted | Made by your dentist from a mould of your teeth | The closest fit, comfort, and protection |
Custom-fitted guards
A custom mouthguard is made from an impression of your teeth, so it fits closely, stays in place, and lets you breathe and speak more easily — worth it if you play regularly. The same kind of custom guard (a nightguard) can also protect your teeth if you grind them at night.
Playing a contact sport, or grinding at night? Book a mouthguards fitting and we'll take an impression for a guard made to your teeth.