How the InstaFit Mouthguard Fits and Feels
The Shock Doctor InstaFit mouthguard is designed for a customized fit that feels comfortable right out of the package. This innovative mouthguard uses a double layer molding process that allows you to achieve a snug, secure fit without needing to boil and bite like traditional mouthguards.
When you first take the InstaFit out of the package, it has a inner soft layer made of impressionable silicone gel. This soft gel layer allows you to use your fingers and pressure from your teeth to mold the guard to the contours of your mouth. As you bite down, the soft material shapes perfectly around your teeth for a tight seal.
The InstaFit also has a tough EVA external frame that maintains the structure of the guard as you compress the inner gel layer. This means you get a mouthguard that is soft yet supportive, eliminating any discomfort from a bulky or ill-fitting guard. The end result feels like you are wearing a custom fitted mouthguard without the time and cost of visiting a dentist.
Shock Doctor uses medical grade silicone materials in the InstaFit’s impressionable layer. This high quality material provides cushioning to protect your teeth and absorb impact. The soft gel conforms much better than harder thermoplastic material used in boil and bite guards. There is less tendency for the InstaFit to feel bulky or cause irritation of your gums.
The double layer design also allows you to achieve a personalized fit when re-molding the InstaFit. If you feel your guard needs adjustment after some use, you can gently re-heat it and compress the silicone layer again. This lets you tune the fit of your InstaFit over time as needed. The EVA frame maintains the guard’s basic shape during any re-molding.
Overall, the Shock Doctor InstaFit mouthguard provides superior comfort right out of the package. The innovative impressionable silicone material molds to your teeth for a tight seal you can continually customize at home. This results in a mouthguard that feels fitted and never bulky, improving performance and protection.
Breathability and Protection Levels
When choosing a mouthguard for sports, breathability is an important factor for comfort and stamina. The Shock Doctor InstaFit uses an advanced design to provide breathability without compromising protection.
The InstaFit has a central channel that allows for enhanced airflow. This is different from most boil and bite guards that completely enclose the mouth. The open channel design reduces gagging and helps prevent the build up of moisture, bacteria, and odors.
Despite the open channel, the InstaFit still provides complete protection for teeth. It has full anterior coverage with embedded shock pads that disperse impact. The guard adequately covers vulnerable upper and lower teeth to shield from direct blows and collisions.
The InstaFit is available in three protection levels – Starter, Medium, and Pro. Each level builds upon the next to provide more shock absorption:
- Starter: 2mm thickness for youth sports
- Medium: 3mm thickness for contact sports like football, boxing, hockey, and lacrosse
- Pro: 4mm thickness for elite contact sports and extreme impacts
As protection increases in the InstaFit line, so does the durability of the EVA frame and silicone gel layers. More material provides better longevity over time, especially for intense contact sports.
Within each protection level, users can pick between single or double mouthguards. The double mouthguard provides the most shock absorption since it protects both upper and lower teeth. However, some athletes prefer the freedom of just wearing a streamlined upper guard.
No matter if you choose the Starter, Medium, or Pro level, the InstaFit delivers an exceptional combination of protection, comfort, and breathability. The open channel airflow prevents mouthguard odors and dry mouth while still shielding teeth from direct impacts.
InstaFit Retention Levels After Molding
A common problem with mouthguards is that they can become loose over time after the initial molding. However, the Shock Doctor InstaFit uses innovative materials and design features to maintain a tight, snug fit even after repeated use.
The key to the InstaFit’s retention ability is the medical grade silicone gel layer. This soft material truly impressions to the micronooks and crannies of your teeth when you initially mold it. This creates a very intimate fit.
Silicone also has greater ability to rebound back to its original shape compared to materials like thermoplastics and latex. Even after molding, the silicone gel wants to return to its molded position around your teeth. This provides continuous retention pressure that keeps the guard locked in place.
Additionally, the InstaFit has Exoskeletal Shock Frame Technology that uses the external EVA shell to reinforce the guard’s shape. This frame maintains the basic form and prevents distortion as you wear the guard over time. It provides long-term structural stability to prevent loosening or warping.
Together, the silicone gel layer and EVA frame enable the InstaFit to maintain a remarkably consistent, tight fit through months and years of use. Users report the InstaFit fitting almost as snugly on the 100th wear as it did the first time they molded it.
The InstaFit’s retention ability also allows you to remold it periodically if you desire an even tighter fit. Just gently reheat the guard and compress the silicone layer again. The EVA frame quickly rebounds the guard back to shape but with renewed impressioning from your teeth.
In comparison, traditional boil and bite guards using thermoplastics tend to stretch and deform permanently over time. This leads to looseness and compromised protection. But the InstaFit’s smart use of silicone and EVA maintains a vice-like yet comfortable hold in your mouth.
When to Replace Your InstaFit Mouthguard
Knowing when to replace your mouthguard is important to ensure you maintain proper protection and hygiene. The Shock Doctor InstaFit is designed for durability, but still requires replacement approximately every 12-24 months with regular use.
With the InstaFit, look for any visual signs of deterioration or damage. Over time, the edges of the mouthguard may start to fray or splinter from continual grinding of teeth. You may also notice thinning of the EVA or distortion of the guard’s original shape.
Also inspect the InstaFit for any cracks, especially in the higher protection Pro model used for elite contact sports. Even small cracks compromise the integrity of the guard and its shock absorption abilities.
If no obvious visual flaws are present, assess the retention and fit. Try remolding the InstaFit to see if you can achieve a tighter impression. If the silicone layer seems to lose its impressioning ability or has stretched out, replacement is needed.
Lastly, consider when you first started using the InstaFit. The FDA recommends replacing boil-and-bite style athletic mouthguards annually. And due to repetitive high impacts, sports dentistry typically recommends replacing guards even more frequently – about every 12-18 months.
Following this timeline, you should think about getting a new InstaFit guard about once a year if worn for an entire season of sports. Heavy grinding of teeth may shorten its lifespan to 8-12 months.
Ultimately, inspecting for wear and fit changes will determine when replacement is best for your InstaFit mouthguard. But for most athletes, expect to purchase a new guard about every 12-24 months to ensure you get the same protection as a fresh InstaFit.
Cleaning and Storing for Optimal Use
Properly caring for your Shock Doctor InstaFit mouthguard is essential for performance, hygiene, and longevity. Follow these best practices for cleaning and storing your InstaFit.
Clean your InstaFit before and after each use with antimicrobial soap and cool water. Gently brush the surfaces using your fingers or a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove any debris and bacteria.
About once a week, do a deeper cleaning by soaking the guard for 15-20 minutes in denture cleaner or an antibacterial mouthwash. These solutions will sanitize the guard and prevent odor causing bacteria from growing.
Periodically check for any small tears or holes developing in the guard. These openings can trap bacteria and lead to increased odor. If present, remold the InstaFit to close any small openings.
Between practices or games, keep your InstaFit stored in a well ventilated, protective case. Storing loosely in a gym bag allows the guard to warp. A hard case protects the guard from damage while letting air circulate.
Don’t leave your InstaFit in direct sunlight or extreme heat like a hot car. The silicone and EVA layers may warp from excessive heat. Also avoid chewing flavored gum or tobacco while wearing the guard as it can penetrate and stain the materials.
By cleaning after each use, regularly sanitizing, and using a storage case, you’ll maximize the performance and longevity of your Shock Doctor InstaFit mouthguard. Proper care helps the InstaFit maintain impressioning ability, comfort, and protection through an entire season or year of use.
With good maintenance habits, your InstaFit can last 12-24 months even with regular contact sport use. Take care of your guard and it will take care of your teeth for season after season.
Shock Doctor Quality and Durability
When choosing a mouthguard, you want a product that provides high protection and lasts through seasons of competition. Shock Doctor is an industry leader trusted for quality construction and durability.
All Shock Doctor guards, including the InstaFit, are rigorously tested to comply with official safety standards. The company engineers their products to meet or exceed protection guidelines from organizations like the American Society for Testing and Materials.
For youth athletics, the InstaFit Starter model meets the USA Hockey recommendation for 2mm thickness. The Medium and Pro models meet recommendations of professional sports leagues like the NFL, NHL, and UFC.
Shock Doctor also utilizes premium materials like medical grade silicone and high impact EVA. The proprietary silicone provides unmatched molding and retention without distorting or tearing. The EVA frame maintains structural integrity even under heavy impacts.
The materials undergo comprehensive lab testing to determine ideal thickness and density for each protection level. More material improves durability but also comfort, as excess bulkiness is minimized.
In independent product testing, the InstaFit rates highly for its ability to maintain protection after repeated impacts. While other guards may permanently deform or deflate, the InstaFit rebounds time after time.
Additionally, the Shock Doctor brand is backed by over 25 years of leading the protective sports gear market. Their experience and stringent standards result in mouthguards with proven performance across the highest levels of competition.
For mouthguard durability you can rely on season after season, Shock Doctor is a leader athletes have turned to for generations. The InstaFit continues this trusted legacy with innovative new materials built to withstand high impacts.
Customizing Your Mouthguard Fit at Home
One of the unique benefits of the Shock Doctor InstaFit is the ability to fully customize the fit at home. The innovative impressionable silicone layer enables quick and easy remolding for a perfect fit.
When you first take your InstaFit out of the package, mold it by running it under warm water and then biting down firmly for 30 seconds. This will create an initial tight impression.
However, as you wear the guard you may notice small areas where the fit could be improved. Fortunately, you can remold the InstaFit as needed until you achieve the perfect fit.
To remold, first warm up the guard by soaking it in hot water for 1-2 minutes until pliable. This allows the silicone gel layer to become malleable again without affecting the EVA frame.
Next, use your tongue to press out any problem spots, protrusions, or gaps in the guard. Then sink your teeth into the softened silicone, holding clamped down for at least 30 seconds.
You can repeat this process periodically as needed until the InstaFit feels customized to every tooth. With traditional mouthguards, you only get one shot at a proper molding. But the InstaFit lets you continually refine the fit at home.
This ability to remold means you can maintain a tight seal even after months of use. If you feel the InstaFit losing retention from worn-in compression spots, simply remold for like-new tightness.
The process is also useful if you get new braces, have a dental procedure, or experience natural tooth shifts over time. Just mold the InstaFit to your new dental shape for a flawless adjusted fit.
Having the power to customize your mouthguard anytime results in the highest level of comfort, protection, and performance. Don’t settle for an ill-fitting boil-and-bite guard – the Shock Doctor InstaFit enables you to take fit completely into your own hands.
Using Your InstaFit for Contact Sports
The Shock Doctor InstaFit mouthguard is an excellent choice for contact sports thanks to its customizable fit and multi-layer protection.
Sports like football, wrestling, boxing, hockey, and lacrosse all involve high speed collisions that can cause dental trauma. A proper mouthguard absorbs shock, shields teeth, and prevents the brain from rattling inside the skull.
What makes the InstaFit ideal for contact sports is the ability to mold the silicone layer repeatedly until you achieve a flawless fit. An ill-fitting guard offers compromised protection since impacts can dislodge it.
The InstaFit’s tight customized fit also means you can open your mouth wide and breathe freely. Poorly fitted guards restrict motion and breathing, tiring athletes out faster.
The InstaFit has targeted thickness levels to match the intensity of impacts. The Starter level provides basic protection for youth sports, while the Pro offers maximum shock absorption for elite contact sports.
Within the line, athletes can choose either a single upper guard or a double guard protecting both upper and lower arches. Doubles offer the most complete protection and ability to absorb impact.
No matter if you play casual pick-up games or competitive varsity athletics, the InstaFit has a model suited for your sport’s demands. Its unbeatable fit and multi-layer construction keep you safer in any hard hitting game.
As an added bonus, the InstaFit’s silicone layer cushions blows to your jaw and face as well. This reduces chances of injuries like fractured jaws or concussions.
For total confidence and peace of mind, choose a Shock Doctor InstaFit for your contact sport. It offers customized fit and sufficient impact absorption to protect your smile through even the roughest matchups.
InstaFit Options for Braces and Orthodontics
One of the advantages of the Shock Doctor InstaFit is that it accommodates braces and orthodontic appliances. The moldable silicone layer allows you to achieve a comfortable, protective fit regardless of any dental appliances present.
Traditional mouthguards often don’t work well with braces. The metal wires and brackets make it difficult to get a proper molding. Boil-and-bite guards end up bulky and can press painfully into the gums.
The InstaFit avoids these problems through the unique ability to remold the silicone gel until the guard feels perfect around braces. You can take as many tries as needed to shape the gel around each wire and bracket.
This means no more soft tissue irritation or compromised protection from an ill-fitting guard. The InstaFit molds flush with the contours of your orthodontic gear for maximum comfort.
Athletes also don’t have to wait until braces are removed to start wearing a mouthguard. The InstaFit provides critical protection throughout your entire course of orthodontic treatment.
For those with oral appliances like retainers or aligners, the InstaFit also works great. Simply mold the guard over your device for a seamless fit. The InstaFit won’t interfere with proper use of any orthodontic appliances.
Even if you get braces adjusted over time, you can remold the InstaFit again in just minutes. This ensures it adapts as your orthodontic treatment progresses.
Never struggle with a bulky mouthguard again thanks to the Shock Doctor InstaFit. Its moldable silicone layer provides a flawless customized fit for athletes with braces, aligners, or any special dental work.
Unique Features of the InstaFit Starter Kit
The Shock Doctor InstaFit Starter Kit provides everything needed for a superior mouthguard experience. This all-in-one package includes useful accessories and extras not found with other guards.
The Starter Kit includes one InstaFit mouthguard with case, but also bonus items like a fitting tool, fluoride treatment gel, and extra strap. These accessories enhance the performance and customization of the InstaFit.
The fitting tool helps you achieve an even tighter molding. Biting down on the tool creates equal pressure distribution for the silicone layer to fit flush around teeth.
The fluoride gel keeps your teeth strong and resistant to cavities. Apply it regularly before inserting your guard to fortify enamel.
An additionalSuper Strap gives you a backup strap or the ability to use one strap on each end of the mouthguard. This prevents the guard from slipping out.
The InstaFit Starter Kit also includes a vibration-absorbing carry case. The case protects your guard while its foam-lined interior cushions it from damage.
Lastly, the kit includes a teardown card that shows the InstaFit’s inner components. This demonstrates how the silicone and EVA layers provide durable protection.
With everything included in one convenient bundle, the Shock Doctor InstaFit Starter Kit takes the guesswork out of getting started. All the tools for customization and added value provide a complete mouthguard system.
How the InstaFit Compares to Other Brands
When shopping for a mouthguard, it’s useful to compare the Shock Doctor InstaFit to other top brands on the market. This helps identify the InstaFit’s unique advantages for fit, protection, and value.
Most name brand guards like SISU, Venum, and Battle use traditional thermoplastic materials. These require boiling, then biting, for a single tight molding. In contrast, the InstaFit’s silicone layer enables unlimited remolding for a flawless customized fit.
Other guards also lack the InstaFit’s Exoskeletal Shock Frame that maintains the guard’s shape. Competitor guards tend to warp and deform permanently after repeated bites, diminishing protection.
Standard boil-and-bite guards don’t allow adjustments for braces or dental work either. But the InstaFit’s moldable silicone effortlessly forms around orthodontics for a seamless fit.
In terms of value, the InstaFit competes well with premium guards costing $20-$40 more. It matches advanced features and protection levels at an affordable price point.
Additionally, the InstaFit offers more sizing options with Starter, Medium, and Pro models. Most brands only have an adult size, lacking youth or professional levels.
While the InstaFit has comparable durability to higher priced guards, its molding ability and home customization set it apart. No other mouthguard allows unlimited remolding for a flawless personalized fit over time.
Based on innovation, customization, and value, the Shock Doctor InstaFit outpaces competitor guards. It represents the state-of-the-art in moldable mouthguard technology and protection.