Mouthguards

Common Questions About Mouthguards

• What’s the difference between a custom guard and an over-the-counter one?

  A custom guard is made from impressions of your own teeth, so it fits precisely, stays in place during use, and is far more comfortable to wear for extended periods. Over-the-counter guards are generic sizes that you heat and mould yourself, and they often feel bulky, shift around, and can interfere with breathing and speaking. For serious athletes or people who grind heavily at night, a custom guard offers meaningfully better protection and is more likely to actually be worn consistently, which is the whole point.

• How long will my mouthguard last?

  Sports guards typically hold up well for one to two seasons with regular use, depending on the intensity of contact involved. Night guards generally last two to five years, though this varies with the severity of grinding. We check the condition of your guard at routine visits and will let you know when wear is reaching the point where protection may be compromised. Cleaning it properly after each use and storing it in its case goes a long way toward extending its life.

• Will it affect my speech or breathing?

  There’s usually a brief settling-in period, particularly with a sports guard, but most people adapt within a few sessions of wearing it. Custom guards are designed to sit as naturally as possible in the mouth, which means far less interference with speaking and breathing than a generic alternative. Night guards may feel a little unusual at first, but they shouldn’t affect your breathing during sleep. If anything feels off after the initial adjustment period, come back and we’ll make refinements until it sits right.