Mouthguards are simple yet powerful barriers that cushion teeth, lips, jaws, and brain from impact or grinding forces. Whether you’re a junior athlete, an adult clenching at night, or someone with mild sleep‑apnea, the right guard can slash dental injuries, cut concussion odds, and prevent thousands in restorative bills—provided it fits well, is worn consistently, and stays clean.

Athletes who forgo a guard are up to 60 times more likely to suffer dental trauma during play. The American Dental Association endorses a properly fitted guard for any contact or collision sport, from hockey to mountain biking, to reduce tooth fractures, soft‑tissue lacerations, and jaw dislocations. Emerging research even links regular wear to lower concussion risk in youth ice hockey and other sports.

Picking the Right Mouthguard

Stock models are cheapest and pre‑formed but often bulky and loose, compromising speech and protection. Boil‑and‑bite guards made from thermoplastic EVA soften in hot water, then mold around the bite; correct heating is vital for accuracy. Custom guards, vacuum‑formed from a dentist’s impression or 3‑D scan, deliver the thinnest profile and best shock absorption, outperforming over‑the‑counter options in lab tests.

Beyond Sports: Night Guards & Medical Uses

Bruxism grinds away enamel at up to 200 psi; a hard‑acrylic night guard redistributes that load and can ease jaw pain. Studies suggest custom occlusal splints also lessen tooth sensitivity and gum recession in up to 70 % of chronic grinders. Specialized mandibular advancement guards treat mild sleep‑apnea by keeping the airway open, improving oxygen saturation and snoring scores.

A chairside scan or mold takes about five minutes; your guard returns from the lab in one to two weeks, trimmed to leave room for gums and allow speech. The dentist checks retention, breathing space, and bite, then adjusts edges with a bur until there are no pressure spots. Proper fit is critical: loose guards invite removal during sleep, while tight edges cause ulcers.

Maintenance & Lifespan: Keeping Your Guard Game‑Ready

Rinse in cool water after every use, brush with mild soap, and air‑dry in a vented case to deter bacterial growth. Deep‑clean weekly using denture tablets or a 30‑minute vinegar‑then‑peroxide soak to eliminate biofilm. Keep away from pets and high heat, which warps thermoplastics. Athletic guards typically last one season; night guards survive one to five years depending on bite force and material.

Some kids may resist wearing a mouthguard at first, but choosing a comfortable, well-fitting option can make a big difference. Custom mouthguards are thinner and allow for easier breathing and speaking, making them more likely to be worn consistently.

Dr. Josh Shayefar and the team at Connect Periodontics are here to help protect your child’s smile. If your child plays sports or grinds their teeth at night, a professionally fitted mouthguard can provide essential protection. Contact us today to learn more!