Custom mouthguards are important protective gear for athletes and people who play contact sports. They protect your teeth from getting knocked out or broken. But they do much more than that. A good mouthguard also protects your jaw, your lips, and your tongue from injury. Mouthguards in Woodridge and other areas help prevent concussions and brain injuries. They cushion the impact when you get hit in the face. If you play sports or participate in physical activities, finding sports mouthguards should be a priority. An orthodontist near me can create a custom mouthguard that fits perfectly and protects you completely.
What Is a Custom Mouthguard?
A custom mouthguard is made specifically for your mouth by a dental professional. Unlike store-bought mouthguards that fit everyone the same way, a custom mouthguard fits only you. Your orthodontist takes an impression of your teeth and mouth. Then they create a mouthguard that matches your exact bite and tooth shape. This perfect fit means better protection and better comfort. You are more likely to wear a custom mouthguard recommended by an orthodontist in Woodridge because it feels good in your mouth.
The Full Protection That Custom Mouthguards Provide
Protecting Your Teeth
Teeth are expensive to fix when they break or get knocked out. A custom mouthguard absorbs the impact of a hit and keeps your teeth safe. This is the most obvious protection, but it is also the most important for athletes.
Protecting Your Jaw
Your jawbone is fragile and can break easily from impact. A mouthguard cushions blows to your face and prevents jaw fractures. A broken jaw means months of eating soft food and difficulty speaking.
Protecting Your Lips and Tongue
Your teeth can cause severe lacerations to your tongue and lips upon impact. A mouthguard creates a space between the teeth and soft tissues. This keeps you from receiving deep cuts needing stitches.
Reducing Concussion Risk
Recent studies indicate that customized mouthguards might reduce the risk of concussions. A sound mouthguard absorbs impacts that reach your head. It takes in a part of the shock that reaches the brain. Mouthguards don’t prevent all concussions, but they do reduce them.
Protecting the Jaw Joint
Your jaw joint is called the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. Direct hits to the jaw can damage this joint. A custom mouthguard protects this delicate area.
How Custom Mouthguards Differ From Store-Bought Ones
| Feature | Custom Mouthguard | Store-Bought Mouthguard |
| Fit | Perfect fit for your mouth | Generic fit for everyone |
| Comfort | Comfortable for long wear | Uncomfortable and bulky |
| Protection Level | Maximum protection | Basic protection only |
| Durability | Lasts 3-5 years | Lasts 6-12 months |
| Speech Clarity | Clear speech when wearing | Difficult to talk or understand |
| Thickness | Ideal thickness for your needs | Same thickness for all |
| Retention | Stays in place perfectly | May slip or fall out |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower initial cost |
Who Needs a Custom Mouthguard?
Contact Sports Athletes
Football, hockey, basketball, boxing, and martial arts all require mouthguards. These sports have high collision risks.
Recreational Athletes
Even recreational players should wear mouthguards. Accidents happen in any sport where contact is possible.
People With Braces
If you wear braces or have an orthodontist near you helping with your treatment, a mouthguard is essential. Braces can cut your mouth during impact.
People Playing Extreme Sports
There are collision risks with skateboarding and BMX biking. A mouthguard ensures good protection.
People With Valuable Dental Work
Having a mouthguard will preserve your investment made into crowns, implants and other work.
Getting Your Custom Mouthguard Made
The process is simple and quick. Your orthodontist takes an impression of your teeth using special material. You bite down on this material, and it captures the exact shape of your mouth. Then your orthodontist sends this impression to a lab. The lab creates your custom mouthguard using special materials that are both protective and comfortable. Within one to two weeks, your custom mouthguard is ready to wear.
Maintaining Your Custom Mouthguard
A personalized mouthguard will last a lot longer if you take proper care of it. Rinse it with cool water after each use. Clean it with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. Store it in a protective case. When strong sunlight or high temperature directly hits the mouthguard, it can cause the mouthguard to warp. Replace it if you notice cracks or damage.
Your Teeth and Brain Deserve Real Protection
Wearing a custom mouthguard is one of the smartest decisions an athlete can make. It protects not just your teeth but your jaw, your brain, and your entire face. The investment in a custom mouthguard is small compared to the cost of dental emergencies or head injuries. Do not take chances with your safety. Get a properly fitted mouthguard and wear it every time you play.
Protect Your Smile and Your Future with Girgis & Ito Orthodontics
Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and your brain is even more valuable. A custom mouthguard from Girgis & Ito Orthodontics helps protect both. Athletes who wear custom-fit mouthguards experience fewer dental injuries and a lower risk of concussions. It’s more than protection—it’s peace of mind, so you can stay focused on your game.
You can play with the confidence that you’re fully protected when you book your custom mouthguard appointment at Girgis & Ito Orthodontics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a custom mouthguard cost?
Custom mouthguards typically cost between $150 and $300, depending on the materials used and the complexity of your teeth.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard with braces?
Yes, custom mouthguards are often recommended for people with braces because they protect your mouth from cuts and injuries.
How long will my custom mouthguard last?
A well-maintained custom mouthguard lasts 3 to 5 years before it needs to be replaced due to wear and tear.
Can I clean my mouthguard with hot water?
No, hot water can warp and damage your mouthguard—always use cool water and gentle brushing to clean it.
