Your smile deserves the best protection. Whether you play contact sports in the Main Line area or wake up with a sore jaw from teeth grinding, a custom mouthguard can help. Our custom mouthguards are made to fit your teeth and bite perfectly, providing superior comfort, protection, and peace of mind.
Dr. John Richardson, Dr. Lynnette Mesina, Dr. Noelle Ling, and Dr. Pegah Ardestani are experienced in creating custom-fitted mouthguards for athletes and patients with bruxism. Dr. Richardson is a member of the Academy of Sports Dentistry, so he has specialized knowledge in protecting athletes during play. Bryn Mawr Dental Health Group proudly serves patients from Bryn Mawr, Villanova, Haverford, Wayne, Radnor, Newtown Square, Berwyn, Devon, Ardmore, Penn Valley, Bala Cynwyd, and the greater Philadelphia area.
Types of Custom Mouthguards We Offer
We offer two common types of custom mouthguards, each designed for a specific purpose:
- Sports Mouthguards: Used during games and practices to absorb shock from hits and falls. They help protect teeth, lips, cheeks, and the jaw. Our sports guards are made from strong yet flexible materials and can be customized in various colors and designs. We can even create guards that fit over braces.
- Night Guards for Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Worn while you sleep, these act as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth. They reduce damage from grinding and clenching, ease jaw pain, and prevent tooth fractures. Night guards are especially important for patients with signs of TMJ disorders.
For patients with more severe grinding or TMJ issues, we can also provide advanced bruxism guards or splints.
Why Choose Custom Over Store-Bought?
Stock and boil-and-bite guards are convenient, but they are not designed for your unique mouth. They often slip, feel bulky, and wear down fast. Here’s why a custom mouthguard is a smart investment:
- Superior Protection: A custom guard fits snugly and stays in place, distributing impact force more evenly to better protect your teeth, jaw, and soft tissues.
- Comfort and Performance: Because it fits you exactly, it’s more comfortable. You can breathe, speak, and focus on your game without distraction.
- Durability and Longevity: Custom-made guards are crafted from high-quality, resilient materials designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Prevents Costly Repairs: Protecting your teeth now can save you from expensive dental repairs later, like crowns, root canals, or implants.
The Process of Getting Your Custom Mouthguard
Getting a custom mouthguard is simple and usually takes two short visits.
- Consultation and Impressions: You will meet with your dentist to discuss your needs. We will then take a digital scan or a traditional impression of your teeth to capture the exact shape of your mouth.
- Custom Design and Fabrication: Using your scan, a dental lab will design and craft your guard, choosing the right thickness and materials for your specific needs.
- Fitting and Adjustments: When your guard is ready, you return for a quick fitting. The dentist will check the fit and make adjustments to ensure it is snug, stable, and comfortable.
Care and Maintenance
Good care helps your custom mouthguard last longer:
- Rinse before and after use, and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive soap. Avoid hot water.
- Store it in a ventilated case when not in use.
- Bring it to your dental checkups so we can deep clean it and check the fit.
When to Replace Your Mouthguard
With regular use, your custom guard should last 1-3 years or longer, depending on how you use and care for it. However, you should replace it if it becomes loose, cracked, or shows signs of wear. Young athletes with growing mouths may need a new one every sports season.
Special Considerations for Athletes in Braces or Invisalign
If you or your child wears braces or Invisalign, a mouthguard is especially important. Sports injuries can be exacerbated by braces when they come into contact with the cheeks or lips. A custom mouthguard acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of lacerations and other injuries. We can make a guard that fits comfortably over your braces.
Who Should Consider a Custom Mouthguard?
- Athletes of all ages in contact or high-speed sports
- People who grind or clench their teeth at night
- Patients with dental work to protect, like crowns, veneers, or braces
- Anyone wanting strong, comfortable teeth protection with a secure fit
Patient Review
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a custom mouthguard different from one I buy at the store?
A custom mouthguard from Bryn Mawr Dental Health Group is made from an exact digital scan or impression of your teeth, so it fits perfectly and stays in place. Store-bought guards are one-size-fits-all, often feel bulky, and can shift around during use. A custom guard offers superior protection, comfort, and durability because it’s designed specifically for your mouth.
Do I really need a custom mouthguard for sports?
Yes, especially if you play contact sports like football, basketball, soccer, hockey, or lacrosse. Even non-contact sports like gymnastics or skateboarding carry a risk of falls that can damage your teeth. A custom sports guard absorbs impact, protects your teeth, and can even help prevent concussions by cushioning your jaw.
Can a night guard help with my morning headaches?
Absolutely. Many people grind or clench their teeth at night without realizing it, which can cause jaw muscle strain and tension headaches. A custom night guard creates a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, helping to relax those muscles and reduce morning pain.
I have braces or Invisalign. Can I still get a custom mouthguard?
Yes. We can design a custom guard that fits comfortably over braces or aligners. This is especially important because braces can cause additional irritation to the inside of your cheeks and lips during an impact. A properly fitted guard protects both your teeth and your orthodontic work.
How long does the custom mouthguard process take?
The entire process typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks. The first visit involves a consultation and taking impressions or a digital scan of your teeth. The second visit is for fitting and adjusting your finished guard.
How should I clean and care for my custom mouthguard?
Rinse your guard before and after each use, and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Never use hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Store it in a ventilated case to keep it clean and allow it to dry.
How do I know when it’s time to replace my mouthguard?
Check your guard regularly for signs of wear. If it feels loose, has cracks, or shows thin spots, it’s time for a replacement. For young athletes, we often recommend a new guard each sports season to accommodate their growing mouths.
Will my dental insurance cover a custom mouthguard?
Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for a custom mouthguard, especially if it is prescribed to treat a condition like bruxism (grinding). Our team can verify your benefits and explain your coverage before you begin treatment.
Schedule a Dental Visit Today
Your smile is worth protecting. If you need teeth protection for the field, the court, or bedtime, a custom mouthguard can keep your teeth safe and your bite healthy. Schedule a visit to discuss your sport, symptoms, and goals.
Call us at (610) 897-0825 or request an appointment online today.