Table of contents
- The Basics: What Are Mouth Guards Made Out Of?
- EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Acrylic Resins
- Medical-Grade Silicone
- BPA-Free Polymers
- Why the Material Matters
- Are Mouth Guards Safe to Keep in Your Mouth?
- Different Types of Mouth Guards and Their Materials
- Why ALIGNERCO’s Custom Sports Mouth Guards Are a Game-Changer
- How to Choose the Right Mouth Guard for Your Needs
- Common Concerns About Mouth Guards
- Do Mouth Guards Cause Allergies?
- Can Mouth Guards Cause Bad Breath?
- Are They Safe for Children?
- How Long Do Mouth Guards Last?
- Environmental Impact of Mouth Guards
- Final Verdict: Are Mouth Guards Safe to Keep in Your Mouth?
- Why ALIGNERCO Stands Out
- FAQs
Mouth guards are an absolute necessity to protect your teeth , gums, and jaw from damage caused by high-impact sports, clenching, or other physical activities. But have you ever wondered, what are mouth guards made of? Are these materials safe, especially when you wear the device for extended periods?
This blog discusses various materials that are incorporated into mouth guards, their safety, and the importance of making the right selection. We’ll also explore ALIGNERCO’s custom sports mouth guards, offering a perfect combination of safety, quality, and affordability.
The Basics: What Are Mouth Guards Made Out Of?
Mouth guards are made from a range of materials to meet different requirements. These materials are chosen according to their strength, ductility, and safety. Here’s a closer look at the most common ones:
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
EVA is lightweight, durable, and shock-absorbing, making it the gold standard for most high-quality sports and custom mouth guards. Its flexibility allows it to mold to the unique shape of your teeth.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC is often used in low-cost, stock mouth guards. While inexpensive, it lacks the durability and comfort of EVA, making it less suitable for high-intensity sports or prolonged use.
Acrylic Resins
Acrylic resins are rigid materials used primarily in night guards designed to protect against teeth grinding or clenching. They are highly durable, but their flexibility is insufficient to cover the demands of sport.
Medical-Grade Silicone
Medical-grade silicone is used in softer mouth guards. Though comfortable, it doesn’t provide the same level of protection as EVA or acrylic in high-impact sports.
BPA-Free Polymers
Modern mouth guards, such as those from ALIGNERCO, prioritize safety by using BPA-free materials. These polymers are non-toxic and safe for extended wear.
Why the Material Matters
The material of a mouth guard plays an important role in performance and safety. Different materials offer unique benefits:
- EVA offers superior shock absorption for high-impact sports.
- Silicone is ideal for individuals with sensitive teeth.
- BPA-free materials provide peace of mind for those concerned about potential toxins.
Are Mouth Guards Safe to Keep in Your Mouth?
The simple answer is yes but it depends upon the following factors:
Material Safety
Reputable manufacturers guarantee that their mouth guards are not contaminated with toxic substances such as BPA and latex. High-performance thermoplastics and medical-grade silicones are subjected to rigorous safety testing. For example, ALIGNERCO's custom sports mouth guards are made of non-toxic, BPA-free materials to better protect the user's health.
Proper Fit
An inappropriate-fitting mouth guard may lead to discomfort, irritation, or cause breathing problems. Tailored mouth guards designed for the individual’s dental contours offer close fit and reduce these risks.
Maintenance and Hygiene
A well-maintained mouth guard is crucial for safety. Poor hygiene can result in bacterial accumulation which can lead to infection. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your mouth guards in optimal condition:
- Daily Cleaning: Rinse your mouth guard with tap water after each use.
- Weekly Cleaning: Use a mild cleanser or specialized mouth guard cleaning solution.
- Proper Storage: Store it in a ventilated box to avoid bacterial and mold growth.
Different Types of Mouth Guards and Their Materials
Recognition of different types of mouth guards helps select the right one for your requirements.
Stock Mouth Guards
- Material: Basic plastics like PVC.
- Pros: Cheap and easy to find.
- Cons: Low fit inadequate protection which precludes strenuous tasks.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
- Material: Thermoplastics like EVA.
- Pros: Affordable and semi-customizable.
- Cons: Less durable and comfortable than professionally crafted options.
Custom Mouth Guards
- Material: Premium EVA or BPA-free polymers.
- Pros: Tailored fit, maximum comfort, and superior protection.
- Cons: Higher cost, but worth it for safety and durability.
Why ALIGNERCO’s Custom Sports Mouth Guards Are a Game-Changer
ALIGNERCO, known for its affordable clear aligners, also offers custom sports mouth guards. These mouth guards offer high-tech components, and modern design, as well as being cost-effective, all of which can address the demands of sportsmen and also general users.
Benefits of ALIGNERCO’s Custom Sports Mouth Guards
Custom Fit
ALIGNERCO makes custom mouth guards using advanced dental impressions based on your bite. This ensures maximum comfort and protection.
BPA-Free Materials
Safety is a top priority. ALIGNERCO's mouth guards are polymerized from high-grade, BPA-free polymers and thus are safe to use for extended periods.
Durable and Shock-Absorbing
These mouth guards are built tough enough to field high-impact sports such as boxing, soccer, and football and provide adequate shock absorption to safeguard your teeth and jaw.
Affordable Pricing
ALIGNERCO provides high-quality dental protection at a reasonable price by making it attainable, delivering top-quality mouth guards at an affordable cost.
User -Friendly Process
From ordering to fitting, ALIGNERCO ensures a hassle-free experience. Their at-home impression kits allow for easy custom mouth guard creation without a trip to the dental office.
How to Choose the Right Mouth Guard for Your Needs
When choosing a mouth guard, consider these factors:
Type of Activity
For high-impact sports, choose an EVA-based custom mouth guard for optimal protection.
Fit and Comfort
Stock and boil-and-bite options may not provide the same comfort and protection as a custom mouth guard.
Material Safety
Always opt for BPA-free, hypoallergenic materials to ensure safety.
Budget
Although custom mouth guards have a higher initial cost, their durability and superior protection make them a more cost-effective choice in the long run. Learn about the best mouth guards for your budget in 2025.
Common Concerns About Mouth Guards
Do Mouth Guards Cause Allergies?
Low-quality mouth guards may contain latex or other allergens. Always opt for hypoallergenic options, such as those by ALIGNERCO, to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Can Mouth Guards Cause Bad Breath?
A dirty mouth guard can lead to bad breath. Keeping it clean and stored well can help ensure hygiene.
Are They Safe for Children?
Yes, but only if the mouth guard is of non-toxic material and a good fit. ALIGNERCO offers custom mouth guards for kids participating in sports.
How Long Do Mouth Guards Last?
The lifespan depends on the material and usage. Custom mouth guards of excellent quality can withstand multiple years with appropriate care.
Environmental Impact of Mouth Guards
Most disposable mouth guards are made from plastics that contribute to environmental waste. Custom mouth guards, like those from ALIGNERCO, are designed to last longer, reducing waste and supporting sustainability efforts.
Note: When sustainability is important to you, connect with manufacturers to find out how they do it.Final Verdict: Are Mouth Guards Safe to Keep in Your Mouth?
Correct, mouth guards are safe, as long as they're high-quality, non-toxic, and well-maintained. They are indispensable for protecting your teeth and gums during sports, sleeping, or orthodontic treatments.
Custom-made options, like those by ALIGNERCO, deliver the ultimate comfort and safety making it a smart course of action for those who care for maximum dental protection.
Why ALIGNERCO Stands Out
Choose ALIGNERCO for your mouth guard needs and benefit from our affordable, high-quality custom sports mouth guards that offer excellent protection, comfort, and durability.
FAQs
1. Can I wear a mouth guard over braces?
Yes, you can wear a mouth guard over braces, and it is very much recommended if you play sports or if you grind your teeth. Specially designed orthodontic mouth guards are made to accommodate the brackets and wires of braces without causing discomfort.
2. How do I know if my mouth guard fits properly?
An adequately fitted mouth guard should feel snug and fixed but not painful or uncomfortable. It should remain fixed at mouth opening or speech time and cover all the teeth without protruding over the gum line. If the mouth guard is too loose, too bulky or it's irritating, the mouth guard might not be the right choice.
3. Should I wear the same mouth guard for sports and teeth grinding?
It is not advisable to use the same mouth guard for both purposes. Sports bite guards are intended for impact protection in sports, and night guards are intended for protection against teeth grinding (bruxism). Everyone has a different function and has been made with a different material to be effective. For example, the sports mouth guard may lack the strength to resist grinding forces. ALIGNERCO provides customized designs for every application, providing the best possible protection that is individual to your requirements.
4. What should I do if my mouth guard gets damaged?
If your mouth guard is cracked, deformed, or otherwise compromised, it is important to substitute it right away. A defective mouth guard may offer insufficient protection and even have a negative impact. Have a routine Mouth guard check for signs of wear and tear, particularly if you wear it daily.
5. Is it safe to share a mouth guard with someone else?
No, sharing a mouth guard is unsafe and is therefore strongly discouraged. Mouth guards are personal dental devices designed to fit the specific shape of an individual’s teeth and mouth. Sharing has the potential to facilitate improper fit, less protection, and a higher risk of transmission of bacteria, viruses, and infections.
