Custom Mouth Guards: Are They Worth the Investment?

If you are an athlete, you already know how important it is to keep your smile safe during games. However, given the variety of available over-the-counter products, the question arises: “Is it worth it getting a custom mouth guard?”

In this post, we will explain custom mouth guards, when they should be worn, and their advantages compared to standard or stock mouth guards.

What is a Custom Mouth Guard?

A custom mouth guard is designed by a dentist or an orthodontist as per the individual’s dental dimensions, including the teeth and gum line.

Unlike the standard boil-and-bite mouth guards found in stores, custom-fit mouth guards are crafted based on the exact dimensions of your mouth, making them more comfortable and effective in providing protection.

How Are Custom Mouth Guards Made?

Creating a custom mouth guard is an intricate procedure that involves taking an impression of the teeth, which is then used to create a precise mold. This process helps to ensure that the mouth guard perfectly fits your mouth, as it covers all parts of the mouth that require protection and is not in any way uncomfortable to wear.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps:

• Dental Impression: An impression of your teeth is either taken by a dentist or orthodontist by using a specialized mold.
• Mouth Guard Design: The impression is then taken to the lab for technicians, who take their time to customize the mouth guard to the exact dimensions of the patient.
• Final Fitting: Once it is ready, your dentist will make alterations to the fit if necessary to make it comfortable.

Key Benefits of Custom Mouth Guards

The following are the benefits of a custom mouth guard:

Why Custom Mouth Guards are Better Than Over-the-Counter Ones?

When it comes to choosing between a custom mouth guard and a store-bought one, consider the following factors:

Why Should I Consider a Mouth Guard?

A custom mouth guard may be worth the investment if:

• You play high-impact sports: Mouth guards are important dental gear for a wide range of sports as they guard against any possible injuries.
• You have braces: Custom mouth guards are special protective devices that add an extra layer of protection for orthodontic appliances.

How to Choose the Right Custom Mouth Guard for Your Needs?

Purpose: Is it for sports or grinding or both?

Thickness: Sports mouth guards must be thicker for added impact capacity, while the ones for nighttime grinding might be thinner.

Material: Most sports mouth guards are made from strong materials, which include acrylic or laminated layers, so they are long-lasting and not tender on the gums.

Dental Conditions: Choose an appropriate mouth guard that fits your braces or any unique dental needs.

Should I Invest in a Custom Mouth Guard?

A custom mouth guard is expensive; however, the money that is spent in this case is considered as well spent in case you want to have healthy teeth. Here’s why you should consider investing:

• Cost-Effectiveness: A custom mouth guard may cost more than the other types, but it can save you money in the long run due to its ability to prevent you from spending money on additional costly dental procedures.
• Health Benefits: Mouth guards are effective in minimizing the chances of sustaining jaw fractures, chips on a tooth, or any soft tissue damage.
• Peace of Mind: Having confidence that the mouth guard is durable and well-made attributes to enhanced comfort and confidence.

How to Care for Your Custom Mouth Guard?

Taking care of your mouth guards will ensure that they last longer and remain as effective as they were first bought. Here’s how:

• Clean Regularly: To clean the device, rinse it with cold water after use and then brush it gently using a soft toothbrush.
• Avoid Hot Water: Never clean the mouth guard with warm water, as heat might soften it and cause it to lose its shape.
• Store Properly: Store in an airtight jar to avoid growing bacteria accumulating on it.
• Deep Clean: In case you need a more extensive cleaning, a professional cleaning agent can be used. Another method is through the use of ALIGNERCO Ultrasonic Cleaner with UV Lights, or aligner cleaner + whitener, which effectively kills germs but does not harm the material.

Check out this video from Dr Ather detailing how to maintain your mouth guard.

How To Make Your Custom Mouth Guards Last Longer?

To get the most out of your custom mouth guard, follow these tips:

• Daily Cleaning: After each use, you should clean your mouth guard by rinsing and brushing it.
• Proper Storage: When not in use, it is best to keep it in a case and try not to expose it to the sunlight.
• Regular Inspections: It is recommended to examine the surface of the tool for signs of wear frequently. If you find that it is not fitting well or there are cracks in it, it is best to consult your dentist.
• Professional Maintenance: It is also worth knowing that some mouth guards can be cleaned professionally during dental checkups.

Are Custom Mouth Guards Worth the Cost?

Hence, when considering the cost of dental injuries and repair, using a custom fit mouth guard is worth the expenditure. Let’s break down the main reasons why they’re worth the cost:

• Long-Term Savings: Any dental mishaps and fixes can be expensive. A custom mouth guard may cost you now, but it will save you more money in the long run.
• Increased Comfort: An ideally fitting mouth guard will promote daily use, especially for those who experience bruxism at night.
• Better Oral Health: Mouth guards help avoid impact on the teeth, gums, and jaw to eliminate future dental problems.

Introducing ALIGNERCO Mouth Guard

Get customized mouth protection while playing your favorite sports using ALIGNERCO Sports Mouth Guards. Made to perfectly fit your mouth, our mouth guards ensure easy breathing and other activities. Here is what an ALIGNERCO Mouth Guard offers.

• 4mm thickness
• Customized devices
• Impact resistant
• Available in multiple colors

How To Obtain Your Mouth Guards?

Why You Choose ALIGNERCO?

• Affordable Pricing: Obtain the best custom mouth guards and dental care services at affordable prices.
• Custom Fit: The custom mouth guards provided by ALIGNERCO are custom-tailored for every user to guarantee comfort and security.
• High-Quality Materials: These mouth guards are constructed with medical grade and BPA-free materials for enhanced effectiveness and durability.
• Easy Process: When it comes to at-home impressions and aligner fittings, ALIGNERCO makes the treatment process as easy as possible for clients.
• 24/7 Support: Feel free to get help from the dedicated customer support whenever it is required.
• Tracker App: To track your progress, get reminders, and stay motivated, download the ALIGNERCO Tracker App before starting your treatment.
• Effective Results: Our aligners and dental products guarantee the safety, proper alignment, and aesthetics of your smile.

Conclusion

While custom mouth guards do cost more than the generic ones on the market, these are well worth the cost. For enhanced sporting performance, the ALIGNERCO custom mouth guard comes with the benefits of flexibility, durability, and ease of use.

It’s like having a tailored-made investment for your dental health, which can reap huge rewards in the long run.