Custom-Made Mouthguards: Essential Protection for Your Smile

A mouthguard is a custom-made protective device designed to fit precisely over your teeth and gums. It cushions and safeguards your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury during physical activities or while you sleep, providing a comfortable and secure fit tailored just for you.

Why Do I Need a Sports Mouthguard?

If you participate in contact sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey, football, or any other activity where facial impacts are possible, wearing a professionally made mouthguard is highly advisable. Sudden blows to the face — whether from a ball, an opponent, or accidental falls — can transmit shock waves through your jaw, potentially causing serious damage including:

• Fractured or chipped teeth

• Dislocated or broken jawbones

• Soft tissue injuries to gums, lips, and tongue

Dental injuries are unfortunately common in many sports, but a high-quality mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, significantly reducing the risk of severe damage. While it cannot entirely prevent teeth chipping from a direct hit, it helps protect your jaw from painful fractures and lessens the force of impact, making injuries less severe.

Why Might I Need a Night Guard?

Many people suffer from bruxism—the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. This can lead to:

• Excessive wear and tear on your teeth

• Jaw pain and headaches

• Disrupted sleep due to grinding noises

A night guard (or splint) helps protect your teeth by providing a soft, durable barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It redistributes the pressure across your jaw evenly and prevents the direct contact that causes tooth wear and grinding sounds. While a night guard does not cure bruxism itself, it can alleviate symptoms and protect your teeth as you explore underlying causes with your dental professional.

What Makes Custom Mouthguards Better?

Unlike over-the-counter or boil-and-bite mouthguards, custom-made mouthguards are crafted precisely to the unique shape of your teeth and gums, ensuring:

• A comfortable, secure fit that stays in place during activity

• Maximum protection from impacts and grinding

• Durability, lasting longer without cracking or deforming

• Better breathing and speaking ability compared to generic guards

This tailored fit not only enhances protection but also improves comfort, encouraging consistent use—essential for keeping your smile safe.

Customisation Options: Make It Your Own

Your sports mouthguard can be personalised to reflect your style or team spirit. Choose from a variety of:

• Colours — from bright, bold tones to match your team’s colours

• Patterns and designs — unique options to showcase your personality

• Transparent materials — for a discreet, near-invisible look

Our team will guide you through the available options to create a mouthguard you’ll be proud to wear.

Why Avoid Over-the-Counter Mouthguards?

While pre-formed mouthguards can be found at many sports shops, they have significant limitations:

• They require boiling and molding at home, which can be tricky to get right

• They rarely fit as accurately or comfortably as a custom device

• They may feel bulky or cause discomfort, discouraging regular use

• Heating and cooling can make the material brittle and more prone to cracking

For the best protection, comfort, and longevity, we strongly recommend consulting your dentist to have a professionally made mouthguard fitted specifically for you.

Protect Your Smile — Talk to Us About Mouthguards Today

Whether you’re an active athlete or someone experiencing teeth grinding at night, a custom mouthguard is a simple, effective way to protect your oral health and avoid costly dental injuries. Contact our team at Goyt Valley Dental Practice to discuss your needs and arrange a consultation for a custom-made mouthguard tailored just for you.