Some athletes playing in contact sports complain that retail-level mouth guards can be bulky, uncomfortable or they can make it hard to breathe. These kinds of complaints are even more common for athletes with braces. Because of this, athletes might even choose not to wear their mouth guard at all and simply hope for the best.
Luckily, your dentist can fit you for a custom mouth guard. These pieces are specifically designed to match your teeth for comfort. They are also made from very durable materials, and with the proper care, they can last for several years.
There are two types of custom mouth guard materials for athletes to choose from. Your dentist can help you decide which one is right for you.
Vacuum-fitted mouth guards use a moldable, thermoplastic material to conform to your teeth. The mouth guard is then trimmed and polished for comfort. These mouth guards tend to last around a year.
Pressure-laminated mouth guards are a relatively newer product. These pieces are molded using multiple layers. Many athletes prefer them over vacuum-molded mouth guards for fit and comfort. Pressure-laminated pieces have an average lifespan of around two years.
If you have any questions about custom mouth guards or if you would like to be fitted for one, please feel free to call us at 440-358-0495 to schedule an appointment.