Overview
Mouthguards — also called mouth protectors — help prevent oral injury. Dentists recommend them for patients with sleep apnea, TMJ disorder, damaged teeth, or bruxism. Kids and adults also wear them during recreational and athletic activities.
You have three main options: pre-formed (stock) mouthguards, boil-and-bite devices, and custom-made guards from your dentist. At TruCare Dentistry, we recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for the best protection and comfort.
Types of Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are ready to wear and sold at pharmacies. Boil-and-bite models soften in hot water and mold to your teeth at home. Custom mouthguards are made from digital impressions of your mouth and fabricated in a dental lab for a precise fit.
Seven Benefits of Custom Mouthguards
1. Proper Fit
Pre-formed mouth protectors use a one-size-fits-all approach, but every mouth, jaw, and set of teeth is different. Stock guards often fit poorly — users may need to clench to keep them in place, which makes talking and breathing harder. Even boil-and-bite options rarely match a lab-made fit.
Custom-fitted devices are designed around your dental history, oral health, braces, and other appliances. Personalization ensures your guard stays secure without constant adjustment.
2. Appropriate Thickness
Stock mouthguards can irritate gums when they do not seat properly. They may feel hard or uncomfortable and increase the risk of gum irritation. Boil-and-bite alternatives are somewhat better but are often bulkier than dentist-supplied custom guards.
Custom-fit mouthguards cost more upfront, but your dentist can control thickness and contour for comfort. For impact sports, about 4 mm of material is ideal for effective protection.
3. Avoiding Problems With Ill-Fitting Guards
A mouthguard protects tooth enamel, but only when it fits and stays clean. Dirty or damaged devices can harbor bacteria and irritate gum tissue. Patients who rely on loose stock guards may be more prone to gum problems — follow your dental office’s guidance on fit and care.
4. Increased Retention and Daily Use
A guard only helps if you wear it. Patients are far more likely to use a mouthguard that fits well. Your dentist can trim flanges so your tongue and cheeks move naturally, which encourages consistent wear during sports or at night.
5. Fewer Dental Emergencies
Mouthguards are estimated to prevent hundreds of thousands of sports-related oral injuries each year. Athletes without a guard are significantly more likely to suffer dental trauma. A properly fitted protector absorbs shock and spreads impact forces — essential for contact sports.
6. Protecting Kids in Contact Sports
Children can suffer serious lip and gum injuries when a ball or elbow hits braces during school sports. Jaw trauma from impact may require surgery, extended recovery, and restorative work such as crowns, bridges, or implants. A custom mouthguard lets active kids keep playing with far less risk to their teeth and investment in orthodontic care.
7. Prevention Saves Money Long Term
Custom guards may seem expensive compared with store-bought options, but they can prevent costly reconstructive treatment after accidents. Stitches, knocked-out teeth, and jaw injuries are far more expensive than prevention — especially if you have implants, veneers, or other restorative work to protect.
Additional Protective Benefits
Custom and well-fitted mouthguards also:
- Protect against bruising and soft-tissue cuts
- Cushion teeth during impact
- Reduce contact between opposing teeth
- Help cushion the lower jaw and lower fracture risk
- Limit jaw jarring that can contribute to head and neck injury
What to Look for in a Mouthguard
An ideal mouth protector should be easy to clean, durable, and free of unpleasant taste or odor. You should be able to breathe, swallow, and speak comfortably while it stays securely in place.
Custom Mouthguards at TruCare Dentistry
Not sure which mouthguard is right for you or your child? Schedule an appointment at TruCare Dentistry in Roswell, GA. Our team will evaluate your needs and provide a custom-designed mouthguard for sports, night grinding, or TMJ-related protection.
“When patients understand their treatment options, they make better decisions about protecting long-term oral health.”
“Good oral hygiene and professional care reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss over a lifetime.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Does TruCare Dentistry offer general dentistry? +
Yes. TruCare Dentistry provides general dentistry for patients in Roswell, Marietta, and East Cobb.
How do I schedule an appointment? +
Call (678) 321-7575 or use our online contact form. We are located at 9205 Coleman Rd, Suite 200, Roswell, GA 30075.
Do you take dental insurance? +
We accept most major dental insurance plans. Call (678) 321-7575 and our team will confirm your coverage before your visit.
Do you see patients from Roswell and Marietta? +
Yes. Most of our patients come from Roswell, Marietta, and nearby zip codes such as 30075, 30076, 30350, 30062, and 30068. We also welcome new patients from across the greater Atlanta metro — many of our long-term patients travel from well outside the immediate area.
Do you offer same-day emergency appointments? +
Yes, during business hours we offer same-day emergency dental care when urgent pain, swelling, or trauma requires immediate attention.
Who provides care at TruCare Dentistry? +
Dr. Toral Ardeshna, DDS, and our experienced team provide personalized family, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry under one roof.
Schedule Your Visit in Roswell, GA
Same-day emergency appointments available. Serving Roswell, Marietta, and East Cobb.