Mouthguards play a crucial role in protecting teeth from damage during sports and other high-impact activities. Having a reliable mouthguard can mean the difference between a minor mishap and a serious dental injury that could call for new cosmetic dentures. If you could do without having to pay between $300–500 for a denture reline every two to three years, your game plan should be clear. Get yourself one of our custom-made mouthguards: an investment that will set you back a mere $120 each year — and that’s before applying one of our generous rebates for eligible patients.
Why buy custom-made? While over-the-counter (OTC) options are cheaper and more readily available, custom-made solutions offer protection and comfort tailored to every unique contour of your mouth. Here’s why made-to-order mouthguards are better for everyone, from amateur athletes to professional players.
Tailored Fit for Optimal Protection
One of the most significant advantages of custom-made mouthguards is their tailored fit. Unlike OTC options, which come in standard sizes, custom mouthguards are crafted based on a precise impression of your teeth. This personalised fit ensures that the mouthguard sits snugly and comfortably in your mouth, providing maximum protection. An ill-fitting mouthguard can shift during impact, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing injury.
Put another way, custom-made mouthguards will save your teeth for $120, while a cheap starting price for partial dentures is about $350. And that’s not even accounting for all the associated maintenance, from regular relining to denture repairs.
Enhanced Comfort & Breathability
Mouthguards are only as effective as they are comfortable. When a mouthguard sits in your mouth like a stone in your shoe, you’re less likely to wear it for every game. This leaves your teeth vulnerable to impact — and, worst-case scenario, a future of full dentures. However, because custom-made mouthguards hug the exact shape of your teeth and gums, they’re bound to sit in your mouth more comfortably than their OTC counterparts.
Additionally, a better fit enhances breathability, allowing for easier breathing and communication during activities. This is particularly important for athletes who need to maintain peak performance while wearing their mouthguards.
Superior Durability & Longevity
Custom-made mouthguards are constructed from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand significant impact and wear. In contrast, OTC mouthguards are often made from lower-quality materials that may degrade more quickly. To draw an analogy, OTC mouthguards are like immediate dentures: they do the job, but they’re not built to last. You should treat them as a stopgap until you can get something better-quality.
While the initial cost of a custom mouthguard is higher, its longevity makes it a more cost-effective option in the long run. Investing in a custom mouthguard means fewer replacements and consistent protection over time.
Comprehensive Protection
Custom-made mouthguards offer comprehensive protection by covering all vulnerable areas of the mouth, including the teeth, gums, and jaw. The personalised design distributes pressure evenly across the mouth, reducing the risk of injury to specific areas. OTC mouthguards, with their one-size-fits-all approach, may leave certain parts of the mouth exposed, increasing the risk of injury.
Better Oral Health
Custom-made mouthguards contribute to better overall oral health. Because they are designed specifically for your mouth, there is less risk of irritation or injury to the gums and soft tissues. OTC mouthguards, on the other hand, can cause abrasions and discomfort due to their poor fit. Moreover, custom mouthguards are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup and associated oral health issues.
Professional Guidance
When you opt for a custom-made mouthguard, you also receive professional guidance from our denturists. They can provide valuable advice on how to use and care for your mouthguard, ensuring it remains in optimal condition. This professional support is not available with OTC mouthguards, leaving users to navigate potential issues on their own.
Protect Your Mouth Properly at Direct Denture Care
While over-the-counter mouthguards may seem like a convenient and cost-effective solution, the benefits of custom-made mouthguards more than justify the initial investment. From superior fit and comfort to enhanced protection and durability, custom-made mouthguards offer unparalleled advantages. Athletes and individuals seeking the best protection for their teeth and gums should consider getting a custom-made mouthguard from Direct Denture Care.
While we specialise in all things denture-related — from the classic full denture design to the semi-permanent implant overdentures — we take care of those with natural teeth, too. Leave the emergency denture repairs for when you need them. For now, it’s time to play ball and preserve the pearly whites you have! Schedule your consultation with Direct Denture Care today to talk all things custom-made mouthguards.
