Fitting a Mouthguard
Short answer. A sports mouthguard fitting is about getting a guard that stays in place, lets you breathe and talk, and covers the teeth properly. Stock, boil-and-bite and dentist-made guards differ in fit and cost, so ask your dental team which suits your sport and your mouth.
- A guard that fits snugly and stays put is more likely to be worn.
- Braces and growing mouths often need special advice.
- Ask the dentist before choosing, especially for contact sports.
- Clean and check the guard regularly, and replace it when worn.
Why a mouthguard is worth a conversation
Mouthguards cushion the teeth, lips and gums during contact or fast-moving sports, and dental organizations commonly encourage wearing them for activities where a knock to the face is possible. A guard only helps if it is actually worn, which usually comes down to comfort.
That is why fit matters. A loose or bulky guard gets left in the bag, while a snug one is easier to forget you have in.
The three common types
Stock guards come ready-made and are the least expensive, but they fit loosely and can make breathing or talking harder. Boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and shaped to your teeth at home, which usually gives a better fit.
Custom guards are made by a dental professional from an impression or scan of your teeth. They tend to cost more but are shaped to your mouth, and many people find them the most comfortable.
- Stock: ready-made, loose fit
- Boil-and-bite: shaped at home
- Custom: made by the dental team
What to tell the dentist at the fitting
Mention your sport, how often you play, and whether it involves contact, falls or flying equipment. Say if you have braces, retainers, loose baby teeth or recent dental work, since these all change what will fit and protect well.
Bring any guard you already use. The dentist can check whether it still fits and covers the teeth, and tell you if it is time for a replacement.
Braces, teens and growing mouths
Teens with braces often need a guard made to sit over the brackets, and a standard one may not work. Growing mouths change quickly, so a guard that fit last season can become loose or too small.
Ask the orthodontist or dentist for a recommendation rather than choosing from a shelf, and plan a check each season while teeth are still moving.
Cleaning, storing and replacing
Rinse the guard after use, clean it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, and let it air dry in a ventilated case. Keep it away from heat, such as a hot car, because it can warp.
Replace a guard that is cracked, thin, loose or chewed through. If your teeth, gums or jaw hurt after play, or a tooth feels loose, see a dentist promptly.
Questions readers ask
Do I need a mouthguard for non-contact sports?
It depends on the activity. Anything with a risk of falls, collisions or flying equipment may be worth it, and your dentist can help you judge.
Can I reshape a boil-and-bite guard if it feels wrong?
Follow the maker's directions, since many can only be reshaped a limited number of times. If it still feels off, ask your dentist.
How often should a guard be checked?
Look it over before each season and whenever it feels loose or looks worn. Growing teens may need more frequent checks.
Is a custom guard always necessary?
Not always. The best choice depends on the sport, your teeth and your budget, so ask your dental team to talk through the options.
Talk to a professional. Persistent bleeding, pain, swelling, loose teeth or sores that do not heal need a dentist's attention, not a supplement.