Choosing between a custom-fitted dental mouthguard and a store-bought option is one of the most important decisions an athlete or parent can make when it comes to safety. While both provide some level of protection, key differences in fit, comfort, durability, and impact absorption can dramatically influence how well your teeth and jaw are protected. Custom mouthguards are designed with precision and tailored to your unique bite, while store-bought guards offer quick, inexpensive, but limited protection. This article breaks down both options so you can make an informed decision.
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What Is a Custom Mouthguard?
A custom mouthguard is a professionally crafted protective device made by a dentist using an exact impression or scan of your teeth. Because it is personalised to your mouth, it offers superior comfort, stability, and protection compared to generic store-bought guards.
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How Are Custom Mouthguards Made?
Custom mouthguards are created through a precise, multi-step process. First, your dentist performs a consultation to assess your dental structure and sporting needs. Then, they take a detailed impression or digital scan of your teeth, ensuring a perfect anatomical fit. This mould is sent to a dental laboratory, where technicians fabricate a durable, high-quality mouthguard designed uniquely for you. The result is a personalised piece of protective equipment that stays securely in place, allowing you to breathe, speak, and play comfortably.
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How Much Do Custom Mouthguards Cost?
Custom mouthguards cost more than store-bought options due to their professional design, premium materials, and personalised fit. Pricing varies based on the level of protection and the patient’s needs. However, the investment is justified as these guards offer unmatched safety and longevity.
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How Long Do Dental Mouthguards Last?
Dental mouthguards typically last one to two years, depending on how often they’re used, the intensity of the sport, and whether the patient’s teeth are still developing. Athletes involved in heavy-contact sports may require more frequent replacement. To extend longevity, clean the mouthguard after every use with cool water, store it in a ventilated container, and keep it away from heat sources that may distort its shape. Proper care ensures consistent protection and comfort throughout its lifespan.
Are Custom Mouthguards Worth It?
Yes — custom mouthguards are absolutely worth it, especially for athletes in high-impact sports such as AFL, rugby, basketball, and martial arts. Their superior fit improves breathing and speaking, while the personalised design delivers the highest level of impact protection. They are more durable than boil-and-bite alternatives, meaning fewer replacements and better long-term value. For parents and competitive players, the additional safety and comfort justify the investment, reducing the risk of injuries that can lead to extensive dental treatment.
What Is a Store-Bought Mouthguard?
A store-bought mouthguard is a mass-produced protective device available in standard sizes (small, medium, large). These are inexpensive and available at pharmacies or sporting goods stores. While convenient, they provide only basic protection due to their generic fit.
What Is a Boil-And-Bite Mouthguard?
A boil-and-bite mouthguard is a type of store-bought guard made from thermoplastic material. After softening it in hot water, the wearer bites down to form a semi-custom fit. While this offers better adaptation than a standard guard, the fit remains inferior to a dentist-made custom mouthguard.
Are Store-Bought Mouthguards Safe?
Yes — store-bought mouthguards are safe to a basic degree and are better than wearing no protection at all. However, their limited fit can reduce effectiveness. Because they are not moulded precisely to the teeth, they may shift during play, restrict breathing or speaking, and offer insufficient shock absorption. For high-contact sports, this can increase the risk of chipped teeth, jaw injuries, and soft-tissue trauma. While suitable for casual use, they do not match the protection level of a custom-fitted guard.
Are Boil-And-Bite Mouthguards Safe?
Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer slightly better adaptation than standard store-bought guards but still fall short of optimal safety. Their fit depends on how well they are moulded at home — if done incorrectly, they may feel bulky, uncomfortable, or poorly aligned. These guards are made from lower-grade materials, which may wear down quickly or deform with use. Their protective ability is limited by how well the material fits the teeth, making them less reliable for athletes needing strong, consistent protection.
Are Mouthguards Covered By Insurance?
Many Australian private health insurance policies cover custom mouthguards under dental extras. Coverage varies depending on your fund and level of cover, so it’s best to check your individual policy.
Custom Mouthguard vs Boil and Bite?
When comparing custom mouthguard vs boil-and-bite options, the differences become clear. Custom mouthguards offer the best protection, durability, comfort, and stability because they are designed specifically for your teeth. They stay firmly in place, allow easy breathing and speaking, and provide superior shock absorption during impact. Boil-and-bite guards, while affordable and readily available, offer limited fit, lower comfort, and reduced protection — especially for intense sports. For athletes serious about safeguarding their teeth, jaw, and long-term oral health, a custom mouthguard is the clear and worthwhile choice.
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