How do custom-fit and boil-and-bite mouthguards compare. What features should you look for in a mouthguard for contact sports. Why are Shock Doctor mouthguards highly recommended for athletes. How can you properly care for and maintain your mouthguard.

Custom-Fit vs Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Which is Right for You?

When it comes to selecting an adult mouthguard, one of the primary decisions you’ll face is choosing between custom-fit and boil-and-bite options. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that are worth considering.

Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Tailored Protection

Custom-fit mouthguards are crafted specifically for your mouth using dental impressions. This personalized approach results in several benefits:

• Superior fit and comfort
• Excellent shock absorption and impact distribution
• Stays firmly in place during activity
• Allows for easy breathing, talking, and drinking

The process of obtaining a custom-fit mouthguard involves visiting a dentist for impressions, which are then sent to a lab for fabrication. While this method provides the best protection, it comes at a higher cost, typically ranging from $50 to $200.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Convenience and Affordability

Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a more accessible and budget-friendly option. These guards can be purchased off the shelf and molded at home. Here’s what you need to know:

• More affordable, priced between $10 to $40
• Quick and easy fitting process
• No dental visits required
• Adequate protection for recreational sports

However, boil-and-bite guards may feel bulkier and can make breathing and speaking more challenging. They’re also more likely to loosen or fall out during intense activity.

Essential Features for MMA and Contact Sport Mouthguards

Participating in high-impact sports like MMA, boxing, wrestling, or hockey requires a mouthguard that can withstand intense forces. Here are the key features to look for when selecting a mouthguard for contact sports:

1. Custom fit for optimal protection and comfort
2. Double layer design with a stiff outer layer and soft inner layer
3. Thicker posterior region to protect against jaw impacts
4. No anterior gap to fully cover upper front teeth
5. High-quality materials like SLS or EVA plastics
6. Wide biting surface for natural mouth movement
7. Vented design to facilitate breathing and speaking
8. Retention strap for secure placement

Popular brands known for these protective features include Shock Doctor, Venum, SISU, and OPRO. These manufacturers prioritize safety and performance in their designs.

Shock Doctor Mouthguards: A Closer Look at Innovation

Shock Doctor has established itself as a leader in mouthguard technology, trusted by professional athletes across various contact sports. Their innovative designs incorporate several advanced features:

• Multi-layer technology with Conjoined Flex Layering
• Gel-fit liner for precise molding and force absorption
• Power wedges to absorb jaw-clenching forces
• Wide biting surface for natural mouth movement
• Excellent retention through suction-fit and anatomical teeth imprints

These features combine to create mouthguards that offer superior protection, comfort, and performance for athletes engaged in high-impact sports.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Your Mouthguard

To ensure your mouthguard remains effective and hygienic, proper care and maintenance are essential. Follow these guidelines to keep your mouthguard in top condition:

1. Rinse your mouthguard with cool water before and after each use
2. Clean it regularly with mild soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush
3. Store the mouthguard in a ventilated case when not in use
4. Avoid exposure to high temperatures, which can warp the material
5. Inspect your mouthguard regularly for signs of wear or damage
6. Replace your mouthguard if it becomes loose, torn, or deformed

By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your mouthguard and ensure it continues to provide optimal protection.

Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Your Sport

Different sports require varying levels of protection. Here’s a guide to help you select the appropriate mouthguard for your activity:

High-Impact Contact Sports

For sports like boxing, MMA, rugby, and ice hockey, opt for a custom-fit or professional-grade boil-and-bite mouthguard with multiple layers and maximum protection.

Moderate-Impact Sports

Sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball benefit from a well-fitted boil-and-bite mouthguard or a less expensive custom-fit option.

Low-Impact Sports

For activities like cycling or skateboarding, a standard boil-and-bite mouthguard can provide adequate protection.

Remember, the level of protection should always match the risk of impact in your chosen sport.

The Importance of Proper Fit in Mouthguard Effectiveness

A properly fitted mouthguard is crucial for optimal protection and comfort. Here’s why fit matters:

• Ensures the mouthguard stays in place during activity
• Provides maximum shock absorption and impact distribution
• Allows for clear speech and easy breathing
• Reduces the risk of the guard being dislodged or swallowed
• Improves overall comfort, encouraging consistent use

If your mouthguard feels uncomfortable or impedes your ability to breathe or speak, it’s likely not fitted correctly and may not provide adequate protection.

Mouthguards for Specific Dental Conditions

Athletes with braces or other dental appliances require special consideration when choosing a mouthguard. Here are some options:

Braces Mouthguards

These guards are designed with extra space to accommodate braces and protect both the orthodontic work and the soft tissues of the mouth.

Guards for Dental Implants

Custom-fit mouthguards are often recommended for those with dental implants to ensure proper protection and fit around the implant sites.

Night Guards for Teeth Grinding

While not typically used for sports, night guards are a type of mouthguard designed to protect teeth from the effects of grinding during sleep.

Always consult with your dentist or orthodontist when choosing a mouthguard for specific dental conditions.

The Role of Mouthguards in Concussion Prevention

While primarily designed to protect teeth and soft tissues, mouthguards may also play a role in reducing the risk of concussions. Here’s what current research suggests:

• Mouthguards can help absorb and distribute impact forces
• They may reduce the risk of concussion by stabilizing the head and neck
• Custom-fit mouthguards are believed to offer better protection than stock or boil-and-bite options

However, it’s important to note that no mouthguard can completely prevent concussions. They should be used in conjunction with other protective gear and proper technique to minimize injury risk.

Innovations in Mouthguard Technology

The field of mouthguard design is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to enhance protection and performance. Some recent innovations include:

Smart Mouthguards

These high-tech guards are equipped with sensors that can measure the force of impacts and track data to help assess injury risk.

3D-Printed Custom Mouthguards

Using digital scans of an athlete’s mouth, these guards can be precisely 3D-printed for a perfect fit.

Antimicrobial Materials

Some mouthguards now incorporate antimicrobial agents to reduce bacterial growth and improve hygiene.

As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative features in future mouthguard designs.

Choosing the right mouthguard is a crucial decision for any athlete participating in contact sports. By considering factors such as fit, protection level, and specific sport requirements, you can ensure that you’re giving your teeth and mouth the best possible protection. Remember, a well-fitted, high-quality mouthguard is an investment in your oral health and overall safety during athletic activities.

Custom-Fit vs Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

When selecting an adult mouthguard, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with a custom-fit or a boil-and-bite option. Both have their own unique pros and cons to consider.

Custom-fit mouthguards are customized specifically for your mouth using dental impressions. This tailored fit results in maximum protection and comfort. The process involves visiting your dentist to have the impressions made, then sending those off to a lab that will create your mouthguard.

Custom-fit guards stay firmly in place even when you open and close your mouth, allowing you to talk, breathe, and drink easily. The snug fit also means the mouthguard won’t get dislodged during intense training or competition. They provide the best shock absorption and impact distribution too.

The downside is that this customization comes at a higher cost. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a custom mouthguard. There are also several visits to the dentist required during the fitting process.

In contrast, boil-and-bite mouthguards can be purchased right off the shelf at a sporting goods store. You simply submerge them in hot water to soften, then bite down to mold the plastic to the shape of your teeth.

These are certainly more affordable at around $10 to $40. The fitting process is also quicker and easier without any dental visits required. However, the fit will never be as precise as a custom option. Boil-and-bite guards are more likely to feel bulky and can make breathing, talking, and drinking harder.

They may also loosen or fall out more readily. This impacts their shock absorption capacity. Typically boil-and-bite mouthguards provide adequate protection for recreational sports, but serious athletes benefit more from custom fits.

Best Mouthguards for MMA and Contact Sports

When participating in high-impact MMA or contact sports like boxing, wrestling, martial arts, rugby, or hockey, having a quality mouthguard is essential. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one?

Here are the key features to look for when selecting the best mouthguard for MMA and collision activities:

• Custom fit – As mentioned already, a custom-made mouthguard is always preferable for contact sports. The tight fit won’t budge or shift around, no matter how much punching, grappling, tackling or checks you endure.
• Double layer design – Look for a dual-layer mouthguard, which has a stiff outer later to spread impact forces, along with a softer inner layer for comfort. This multi-layer approach provides superior shock absorption.
• Thicker posterior region – Extra thickness in the back protects against blows to the jaw and also reduces the chances of a concussion by preventing the lower jaw from slamming into the upper jaw.
• No anterior gap – Choose a mouthguard that fully covers the upper front teeth with no space or gap. This complete coverage protects the teeth from direct hits.
• High quality materials – SLS or EVA plastics mold well and absorb shock better than cheaper thermoplastics like PVC.
• Wide biting surface – Broader bite plates let you open and close your mouth naturally.
• Vented design – Ventilation ports allow you to breath and speak clearly during competition.
• Retention strap – A strap ensures the mouthguard stays securely in place when not being worn.

Some popular mouthguard brands known for these protective features include Shock Doctor, Venum, SISU, and OPRO.

Shock Doctor in particular is trusted by pros across MMA, boxing, football, hockey, and other collision sports. Their innovative gel-fit liners and multi-layer conjoined flex technology allow their mouthguards to absorb shock and disperse impact better than most.

Meanwhile, SISU offers ultra-thin but strong guards that stay in place while enabling easy breathing, drinking, and communication during intense bouts. So assess your needs, but products like these represent the gold standard for contact activities.

Shock Doctor Mouthguards

As mentioned, Shock Doctor is one of the most trusted names in mouthguards for contact sports like MMA, boxing, wrestling, hockey, and football. Their innovative designs and premium materials make them a top choice for both youth and adult athletes.

Here are some of the standout features that make Shock Doctor mouthguards so protective:

• Multi-layer technology – Their patented Conjoined Flex Layering combines a firm outer shield with a soft inner liner. This provides both durability and supreme shock absorption.
• Gel-fit liner – The gel-based inner layer molds precisely to your teeth and absorbs force.
• Power wedges – Strategically placed wedges absorb jaw-clenching forces and impact from hits.
• Wide biting surface – A broad bite plate lets you open and close your mouth naturally.
• Excellent retention – The anatomical teeth imprints and suction-fit keep the guard securely in place.
• High grade materials – Medical-grade silicone rubber offers maximum strength.
• Convertible strap – A removable strap lets you attach the mouthguard to your facemask for convenience.
• Variety of designs – Available in different styles from max protection to low profile.

Shock Doctor is the official mouthguard of the UFC, USA boxing, the NHL, and countless pro teams. Their products are rigorously tested for structural integrity and impact dispersion.

Popular models like the Gel Max Convertible and Double Braced Mouthguards offer elite protection and comfort in a variety of sports. The Double Brace with a fortified wraparound frame is ideal for wrestlers and MMA fighters to prevent tooth and gum cuts.

Meanwhile, their Max Airflow guards enable easy breathing and hydration during competition through vented channels. And for a customized fit, you can boil-and-bite their Powerline or Gel-Fit guards in hot water before molding them to your teeth.

With patented technology and premium materials that meet competition standards, Shock Doctor mouthguards are trusted by pros across contact sports for good reason. They absorb and deflect blows to help prevent dental and head injuries during intense training and fights.

SISU Mouthguards

SISU mouthguards offer a slim, low profile design that stays securely in place while still allowing you to talk, breathe, and drink easily during competition. This makes them a top choice for MMA, boxing, and other collision sports.

Here are some key benefits of SISU guards:

• Ultra-thin profile – At just 2 to 3mm thick, SISU mouthguards are up to 66% thinner than typical boil-and-bite guards. This provides a comfortable, tight fit.
• Durable copolymer material – The proprietary thermoplastic material is durable yet flexible enough to mold perfectly to your teeth.
• Easy to mold – You simply submerge the guard in hot water, then bite down firmly to shape it to your teeth. Refitting is easy too.
• Excellent shock absorption – Despite the thin design, SISU guards still absorb impacts and distribute force thanks to the copolymer material.
• Optimum airflow – The thinness allows for easy breathing, hydration, and speech during fights or games.
• Custom options – Fully custom SISU guards are also available for that flawless tailored fit.
• Variety of styles – SISU offers adult mouthguards with different thicknesses and coverage areas to suit your needs.

SISU guards come in both boil-and-bite and custom-fit options. Their 1.6mm and 2.4mm adult mouthguards provide substantial protection while remaining slim and allowing you to communicate clearly during fights.

The SISU Max and Aero guards offer more complete tooth coverage and shock absorption for hardcore contact sports. While the Nexus and Vortex cover less surface area for those wanting minimal bulk.

Users praise how well SISU mouthguards stay in place even when opened wide or taking hits. The thin profile is also great for fighters and boxers who don’t want to sacrifice breathing ability or vocal commands during bouts.

With patented molding technology and materials that withstand years of regular use, SISU makes quality mouthguards perfect for MMA, boxing, rugby, lacrosse, and more rough sports.

Important Factors When Selecting a Mouthguard

Choosing the right mouthguard involves considering several key factors to ensure you get adequate protection tailored to your sport and needs.

Here are some of the most important things to think about when picking a mouthguard:

• Type of sport – The level of impact and contact will determine if you need heavy-duty protection or a more low-profile option. Collison activities require maximum shock absorption.
• Position – If you play a contact sport like football or hockey, consider your position. More vulnerable positions like quarterback or goalie warrant stronger protection.
• Fit – A mouthguard must fit tightly without interfering with breathing, talking, or drinking. Custom-fitted is best, but well-molded boil-and-bite can also work.
• Comfort – It should feel comfortable and not too bulky or distracting when worn. Softer materials like silicone feel more comfortable.
• Breathability – Look for ventilation cuts or thinner models like SISU if air flow is a priority.
• Retention – Pick a mouthguard that securely stays in place when both worn and not worn. Straps and cases help.
• Durability – Opt for high-grade, tear-resistant materials if you’ll be using it regularly for high-impact activities.
• Care requirements – Some mouthguard materials and designs are easier to clean and care for than others.
• Price – Boil-and-bite are cheaper than custom-fit, but dental mouthguards provide the best protection.
• Warranty – Check if the company offers any guarantee in case of defects or damage.

Prioritize protection first, then narrow down your options based on sport-specific needs and budget. Consulting your dentist can help determine the right balance of fit, comfort, bulk, and shock absorption.

Proper mouthguard care is also essential. Always store it in the protective case when not in use and avoid high heat or chemicals when cleaning. With regular care, a quality mouthguard should last 1-2 seasons depending on usage.

Taking the time to find the right mouthguard for your sport and position will give you confidence taking the field, ice, ring, or mat knowing your smile and teeth are protected.

Getting the Perfect Mouthguard Fit

Achieving the ideal mouthguard fit is crucial for protection and performance. A guard that’s too loose can shift around, fall out, obstruct breathing, and leave you vulnerable to blows. Here are some tips for getting the perfect custom-like fit with both boil-and-bite and custom mouthguards:

• Boil-and-bite – Follow package instructions closely when softening the plastic in hot water. Test frequently for an impressionable but not too soft consistency.
• Bite forcefully – Bite down with at least 60 lbs of steady pressure on the softened mouthguard to imprint your teeth pattern.
• Suck out air – Draw out excess air by sucking hard while biting down to get a vacuum seal on your teeth.
• Don’t chew – Avoid chewing motions when fitting as this can alter the molding.
• Remold if needed – You can repeat the boil-and-bite process if the initial fit isn’t snug enough.
• Trim excess – Carefully trim off any unnecessary material or bulk with sharp scissors or a file.
• See a dentist – They can help adjust the fit and thickness for problem areas if you are still having issues.
• Get custom-fitted – This will provide a flawless fit. Dentists take dental impressions to create a personalized mouthguard.

When testing the fit, the mouthguard should feel snug but not uncomfortable on your teeth. Your lips should seal around the edges with no gaps. Talking and drinking shouldn’t feel obstructed.

Avoid common mistakes like under-boiling, improper bite technique, and neglecting to trim excess material. Taking the time to get a precision fit means you can wear your mouthguard confidently knowing it will stay firmly in place protecting your smile.

Be sure to bring your mouthguard to dental check-ups too for an expert evaluation of the fit. Your dentist can spot any issues with thickness or coverage and help you achieve the intended protective seal.

With the right mouthguard fit, you can breathe easy and focus on sports performance rather than being distracted by a bulky, ill-fitting guard.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Mouthguard

Proper mouthguard maintenance and cleaning is essential to ensure its protective qualities and extend its lifespan. Here are some tips for keeping your mouthguard in top shape:

• Rinse after use – Always rinse with cold water after each use to wash away bacteria, debris, and saliva.
• Brush regularly – Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and mild antibacterial soap to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
• Soak weekly – Soak your guard weekly in denture cleaner or a bleach-free mouthguard cleaning solution to disinfect.
• Avoid bleaches – Don’t use bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh cleaners that could degrade the material.
• Avoid hot water – Hot water can cause mouthguards to warp or change shape.
• Don’t chew – Resist chewing on your mouthguard to minimize wear and tear.
• Store properly – Keep it in the protective case when not in use to prevent damage.
• Inspect regularly – Check for cracks or tears and replace if compromised.
• Replace regularly – Plan on getting a new mouthguard every 1-2 seasons depending on use.

Taking just a few minutes to clean your mouthguard after each practice or game will keep it functioning like new. Letting sweat, saliva, and grime build up leaves you vulnerable to bacteria, foul odors, and deterioration.

Bring your mouthguard to dental visits too so your dentist can inspect for damage and ensure you are caring for it properly. With good maintenance habits, you’ll extend the life of your mouthguard and protect it from premature wear, tearing, and other damage.

Proper storage in the supplied case is also key when not using your guard. Tossing it loosely in your gym bag allows it to warp and risks unnecessary damage that shortens its lifespan.

By regularly cleaning, inspecting, and storing your mouthguard, you’ll keep it in optimal shape for seasons of gum and tooth protection on the field.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Using a Mouthguard

It’s easy to unintentionally shorten the lifespan and compromise the protective abilities of your mouthguard by making some common mistakes.

Here are some pitfalls to avoid when using your mouthguard:

• Chewing on it – This can cause cracks and distortion in the material.<.li>
• Storing incorrectly – Don’t stash it loosely in your bag; use the case.
• Over-boiling – Boiling too long when molding can make the plastic too soft.
• Under-boiling – Not heating enough can make it impossible to imprint your teeth.
• Poor molding technique – Use steady 60 lb biting pressure when imprinting.
• Not trimming – Failure to trim excess material affects performance.
• Dirtying – Allowing buildup of saliva, bacteria, and debris diminishes protection.
• Using harsh cleaners – Bleaches and peroxide can weaken and degrade the guard.
• Sharing – Don’t share your mouthguard to avoid spreading illness.
• Reusing old guards – Performance and fit worsen over time after repeated high impacts.

It’s also essential to avoid letting your mouthguard obstruct breathing or make talking, drinking, or tongue motions difficult. This usually indicates the fit needs adjusting.

Bring your guard to dental check-ups so your dentist can spot issues early and guide you on proper use. They may trim areas impeding your bite or speech.

Taking care to avoid these common missteps will maximize the protective capacity and durability of your mouthguard. No one wants their expensive guard to become useless after just weeks or months due to easily preventable errors.

With knowledge of proper use and care, your mouthguard will keep your smile safely protected practice after practice, season after season.

How Mouthguards Prevent Injuries

Mouthguards play a crucial protective role by absorbing and deflecting blows that could otherwise cause serious harm to your teeth, gums, and even brain. But how exactly do they provide this important protection?

Here is an overview of the injury prevention mechanics of mouthguards:

• Shock absorption – The materials compress and displace forces from impacts that would otherwise transfer directly to the teeth and bones.
• Reduces chance of fractures – By absorbing energy, mouthguards help prevent cracked or knocked-out teeth.
• Prevents trauma to gums – Guards protect the gums from painful cuts and lacerations caused by hits.
• Distributes force – They disperse impact forces over a wider area to reduce concentrated effects.
• Reduces jaw impact – Guards provide a protective barrier between the upper and lower jaw upon collision.
• Provides separation – They keep the jaws apart optimally to allow flexing and movement upon impact.
• Protects against concussion – By minimizing head and jaw trauma, mouthguards reduce concussion risk.

The exact mouthguard benefits will vary based on design, materials, and fit. But in general, they function as a shock absorber to prevent and minimize sports-related dental injuries and trauma.

Custom fitted guards offer the most advanced force dispersion due to their precision fit. They allow minimal movement of the guard itself upon impact for better energy absorption. Just make sure any guard fits snugly and does not obstruct critical motions like breathing or talking.

Discuss your sport and position with your dentist to ensure you select a guard with ample protective properties. An ill-fitting or low-quality guard severely diminishes injury prevention capabilities.

With the right mouthguard, you can step onto the field with confidence knowing your teeth are guarded against trauma and your concussion risk is reduced.

Mouthguard Materials

Mouthguards come in a variety of materials, each with their own advantages. Knowing the properties of each helps determine which is right for your needs.

Here is an overview of the common materials used in mouthguard construction:

• Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) – One of the least expensive options but also less durable. Typically used for short-term or temporary guards.
• Polyurethane – More tear-resistant than PVA. Provides moderate protection at an affordable price point.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – Budget-friendly material but not as shock-absorbent. Can have an unpleasant plastic taste.
• Acrylic – A more rigid material typically used for custom dental mouthguards. Is moldable but not as flexible.
• Rubber/Silicone – Softer material provides excellent shock absorption and a comfortable fit. But more expensive.
• EVA copolymer – Excellent shock absorption, tear resistance, and ability to mold to teeth. A common and durable option.
• SLS nylon – Used for the outer shield layer of some guards due to its strength and durability.

High-end mouthguards from leading brands like Shock Doctor use proprietary EVA or rubber materials proven to excel at force dispersion. Budget boil-and-bite options tend to use cheaper PVC.

The best guards have a firm outer shield layer of EVA or SLS with a shock-absorbing rubber or EVA inner liner. This dual-layer approach combines strength, durability, and superior impact protection.

Carefully inspect the materials used before purchasing a mouthguard. Verify it has adequate thickness in vital areas like the back molars. Avoid guards that seem flimsy, thin, or made entirely of low-cost PVC.

Discuss options with your dentist to select a material with the right balance of moldability, comfort, strength, tear resistance, longevity, and shock absorption. Quality materials mean you can wear your guard with confidence season after season.

Customizing Your Mouthguard

Beyond protection, many athletes also want to add style and personalization to their mouthguards. Here are some ways to customize the look and design:

• Colors – Many companies offer mouthguards in a variety of color options to match team colors or personal preference.
• Patterns – Some vendors let you pick cool patterns like camo, paw prints, stars, lightning bolts, etc.
• Logos – You can often add a team logo, mascot, or other graphic to the front of the guard.
• Name – Some guards can be customized with your name etched on the front.
• Themes – Design your guard around favorite colors, patterns, sports, hobbies, or inspirational phrases.
• Glitter – A glittered frame or pattern gives your mouthguard some sparkle.
• Metallic – Metallic color accents like gold, silver, copper can add style.
• UV prints – Companies can print dazzling designs onto guards using ultraviolet light applications.

Just take care when customizing not to compromise fit or shock absorption in the process. Focus decorative elements on the front surface only. Prioritize function over form by choosing quality materials and appropriate sizing first.

Work with your dentist to add any personalized flair to custom mouthguards they mold for you. They can advise on logos or designs that won’t impede the protective qualities.

There are also fun decorative options for boil-and-bite guards too. Express your unique style while also protecting your smile. A customized mouthguard makes a statement that you take both safety and fun seriously when you play.

With the right mouthguard, you don’t have to sacrifice form for function. Showcase your personality while also gaining crucial protective benefits.

Adult vs. Youth Mouthguards

While adults and youth both benefit from wearing mouthguards for contact sports, there are some key differences between mouthguard types designed for each age group.

Here are the main variations between adult and youth mouthguards:

• Size – Adult guards are larger to fit mature teeth and jaws.
• Material thickness – Adult guards are thicker for enhanced shock absorption.
• Impact protection – More advanced materials in adult guards shield against harder collisions.
• Fit – A tighter fit helps keep adult guards firmly in place during competition.
• Coverage – Adult guards protect more teeth; youth guards usually just front.
• Ventilation – Some adult guards have slots for airflow absent in youth versions.
• Frame – Youth may have an exterior frame for retention; adults don’t need this.
• Price – Specialized adult guards cost more than basic youth models.

Adult mouthguards are subject to higher intensity impacts, so they are constructed with more durable, shock-absorbing materials. The difference in fit also means adult guards stay put securely despite hits and movement.

For youth, protection is still key but some features like airflow slots get excluded. Bright colors and decorative options appeal more to younger athletes too.

Make sure to use a mouthguard designed specifically for your age group. An adult using a youth guard risks decreased protection and retention. Youth with ill-fitting adult guards may experience obstructed breathing and discomfort.

Discuss your sport and positional needs with your dentist to ensure the best mouthguard choice for your age level and type of impacts expected. A guard tailored for adults or youth provides optimal safety and performance.

Buying Mouthguards Online

Thanks to the rise of online shopping, purchasing quality mouthguards for sports is easier and more affordable than ever. Here are some tips for buying mouthguards online:

• Shop reputable sites – Stick to major retailers like Amazon or official brand websites that sell authentic guards.
• Compare prices – Check multiple sites for the best deals on a particular mouthguard model.
• Read reviews – See what other athletes say about comfort, fit, and durability.
• Verify sizing – Double check sizing charts so you order the right size guard.
• Check warranty – See what kind of satisfaction guarantee or warranty is offered.
• Look for deals – Sign up for brand emails for discounts or free shipping promotions.
• Consider custom – Some dentists now do online custom mouthguard impressions.
• Ask a coach – They may have recommendations on ideal mouthguard brands and models.

Online purchasing allows you to easily compare mouthguard options for your particular sport and position. Avoid the hassle of brick-and-mortar shopping.

Leading brands like Shock Doctor, Venum, and SISU all sell directly through their websites. You can often find specialty guards for your sport that local stores may not carry.

Just be sure to consult your dentist before purchasing, especially for custom-fit guards. They can advise on the right balance of fit, material, thickness, and design.

Ordering online allows you to conveniently get a mouthguard that protects your teeth and fits your budget – no driving to stores required.

When to Replace Your Mouthguard

Mouthguards endure a lot of wear and tear. Knowing when it’s time to swap your old guard for a fresh one ensures you get full protective benefits.

Here are signs indicating your mouthguard needs replacing:

• Changed fit – If it feels loose, falls out easily, or irritates your gums, the fit is no longer snug.
• Obstructed breathing – Trouble breathing naturally while wearing it signals diminished fit.
• Cracks or holes – Any visible cracking, tearing, or perforations compromise the structure.
• Changed color/shape – Discoloration, warped shape, or flattening means materials are breaking down.
• Hardened – Rigid, inflexible guards don’t mold well or absorb shocks as effectively.
• Loose parts – Any detached or separated areas indicate age and damage.
• 1-2 seasons of use – Performance and fit decline over time with regular use after about a year or two.

Take note if your mouthguard becomes a distraction rather than asset on the field. Even small deficiencies in fit and function add up game after game.

Bring it to your dental visits so they can monitor wear and recommend when a replacement is needed. Trying to stretch an old guard too long leaves your mouth vulnerable.

Take the plunge for a new guard so you regain that custom-like fit and shock absorption. Your teeth will thank you after taking hit after hit!

Making a Homemade Mouthguard

While it’s always best to use a high quality, fitted mouthguard, some athletes in a pinch turn to homemade versions as a temporary solution. Here is a quick guide to crafting your own:

• Get supplies – You’ll need mouthguard or sports mouthpiece material like silicone putty or EVA sheets.
• Take impressions – For a mold, imprint your teeth into the pliable material and let set per package directions.
• Trim – Once formed, use scissors to trim excess material and achieve a better fit.
• Smooth edges – File down any rough edges for comfort.
• Test fit – Make sure you can talk, drink, and close your mouth without obstruction.
• Add thin layer – For impact absorption, add an extra 1-2mm layer of softer material like silicone.
• Clean thoroughly – Sanitize fully before first use.
• Limit contact time – Only use temporarily until you get a proper fitted guard.

YouTube has great step-by-step tutorials on DIY mouthguard techniques as well. Just know results will be inferior to custom or quality boil-and-bite guards.

A homemade mouthguard should only serve as an emergency fix for a game or two. Don’t prolong use and risk injury. Focus extra on avoiding blows to the mouth in the interim.

Consult your dentist ASAP to get properly fitted for a new mouthguard that meets protective standards. But in a pinch, a homemade version lets you cover your bases.