Custom Mouth Guards vs. Store-Bought: Which Is Better?
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Are you looking to protect your child from sports injuries or for a mouth guard for teeth grinding? You may be wondering whether to grab a boil-and-bite mouth guard or get a custom-fit solution.
While store-bought options are available, custom mouth guards provide superior protection, comfort, and fit. At Cuddly Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dr. Yvonne Felli helps families choose the ideal option to shield their child's teeth from jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and more. Call now to learn about our process and see how we can help your child stay safe and comfortable in Allen, TX.
Who should wear a mouth guard?
Mouth guards are essential for children who play contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, or soccer. They protect their mouths from impact and reduce the risk of chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth.
Mouth guards are also recommended for children who grind their teeth at night. Grinding can wear down the teeth, cause jaw pain, and lead to tooth sensitivity. A mouth guard for teeth grinding can prevent unwanted damage while your child sleeps.
Benefits of a custom mouth guard
A custom mouth guard is made with your child's teeth in mind. The process begins when Dr. Felli takes an impression of their mouth, which is then sent to a lab where the guard is fabricated to help it fit perfectly.
Custom guards offer some of the best protection because they fit snugly and stay in place during activity or sleep. They're more comfortable than store-bought options, which means kids are more likely to wear them. Plus, a custom solution allows for proper breathing and speaking, making them ideal for both sports and nighttime use.
Because they're made from high-quality materials, custom mouth guards are more durable and last longer than over-the-counter options. While they cost more upfront, they provide better value over time.
Understanding store-bought mouth guards
Store-bought mouth guards come in two main types: stock mouth guards and boil-and-bite mouth guards. Stock mouth guards are pre-formed and ready to wear, but they don't fit well and can be bulky and uncomfortable. They often make it hard to breathe or talk, and kids usually don't like wearing them.
Boil-and-bite mouth guards are heated in boiling water and then molded to the teeth by biting down. They offer a better fit than stock guards, but still don't compare to the precision of a custom guard. They wear out quickly and may not provide adequate protection for high-impact sports.
Your child's mouth guard appointment
During a consultation in Allen, TX, Dr. Felli will evaluate your child's teeth and discuss their specific needs. If a custom mouth guard is recommended, an impression of their teeth will be taken. The impression process should be comfortable and quick. Once the custom guard is ready, Dr. Felli will check the fit and make any needed adjustments.
If your child is grinding their teeth at night and experiencing jaw pain or tooth sensitivity, Dr. Felli can also evaluate the underlying cause and recommend additional treatments if needed.
Safeguard your child's smile
If your child needs a mouth guard for teeth grinding or sports, Cuddly Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to help. Do you have questions or want to know if your child needs a mouth guard? Dr. Yvonne Felli provides personalized care for new residents in the Allen, TX, area and beyond. Call today for a consultation and protect your child's oral health.