Understanding the Purpose of Different Types of Mouthguards

May 08, 2020

When it comes to protecting your teeth, mouthguards are an essential piece of gear. They come in various types, each serving a unique purpose, from athletic protection to nighttime grinding prevention. In this post, we'll delve into the world of over-the-counter guards, sports guards, and custom night guards, with special emphasis on ClearClub's superior custom and sports guards.

Different Types of Mouthguards

When it comes to oral health and protection, mouthguards play a crucial role. These dental devices come in various types, each designed to serve a specific purpose. This comprehensive guide will delve deeper into over-the-counter guards, sports guards, and custom night guards, shedding light on their features, benefits, and limitations.

Over-the-Counter Guards

Over-the-counter mouthguards, also known as boil-and-bite mouthguards, are the most accessible type of oral protection available. As the name suggests, these devices can be purchased at your local drugstore without a prescription. They are made from thermoplastic material, which softens when heated. Once softened, you bite into them, allowing the material to conform to the shape of your teeth.

The primary advantage of these mouthguards is their affordability and convenience. However, they have substantial drawbacks. Since they're designed to fit a wide array of mouth shapes and sizes, they often fail to provide a perfect fit.

This lack of customization can lead to discomfort, difficulty in speaking clearly, and even breathing issues in some cases. Furthermore, they may not provide adequate protection, increasing the risk of dental injuries.

Sports Guards

Sports guards, or athletic mouthguards, are specifically designed for individuals engaged in sports or other physical activities. Their primary function is to protect the teeth, lips, cheeks, and jaw from potential injuries during high-impact activities. They're engineered to absorb and distribute the force of a blow, preventing chipped or broken teeth, lacerations to the lips and cheeks, and even mitigating the risk of concussions.

While sports guards offer more protection than over-the-counter options, they still fall short in terms of customization. Many sports guards are 'one size fits all', leading to similar problems of discomfort and inadequate protection. Moreover, a poorly fitting sports guard can be a distraction, affecting an athlete's focus and performance.

Custom Night Guards

For individuals who suffer from bruxism - the medical term for nighttime teeth grinding - custom night guards are a lifesaver. These mouthguards are specifically designed based on an impression of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit. This personalized fit not only offers optimal comfort but also provides superior protection against tooth damage caused by grinding.

Custom night guards can significantly reduce tooth wear, alleviate jaw pain, minimize headaches, and promote better sleep quality. However, they require a visit to the dentist for a proper fitting and are generally more expensive than over-the-counter options.

The ClearClub Difference

At ClearClub, we understand the importance of excellent oral protection. It's not just about safeguarding your teeth, but also about ensuring comfort and usability. Our specialization lies in creating top-notch custom mouthguards and sports guards, designed with a keen attention to detail and an understanding of our customers' unique needs. Here are some key aspects that set us apart:

Custom Night Guards: Our night guards aren't your average over-the-counter options. Each one is custom-made using an impression of your teeth, providing a perfect, comfortable fit every time. Here's what makes them special:

Perfect Fit: By using your teeth's impressions, we ensure each guard fits like a glove, eliminating discomfort or the need for frequent adjustments.
Thin yet Durable: Despite being thin, our guards are incredibly durable, striking the right balance between comfort and long-lasting protection.
Discreet Design: We understand the need for subtlety, which is why our guards are clear and discreet, making them suitable for everyday wear.

Sports Guards: Designed with athletes in mind, our sports guards offer superior protection during rigorous activities. Here's what sets them apart:

Custom Fit: Like our night guards, our sports guards are made using an impression of your teeth, ensuring they stay in place even during high-intensity activities.
Impact-Absorbing Material: Our sports guards are made from a material specifically designed to absorb and distribute impact, significantly reducing the risk of sports-related oral injuries.

At ClearClub, we believe everyone deserves the best when it comes to oral protection. Our focus on customization, comfort, and quality sets us apart, making us a trusted choice for superior custom mouthguards and sports guards.

Bottom Line

While over-the-counter mouthguards may seem like a convenient option, they often fall short in terms of comfort and protection. Sports guards provide an added layer of safety for athletes, but their effectiveness greatly depends on their fit and quality.

Custom night guards, especially those from ClearClub, offer the best of both worlds. They're specifically designed to fit your teeth perfectly, providing maximum comfort and protection against nighttime grinding. Similarly, ClearClub's custom sports guards offer superior fit and protection for athletes, helping them focus on their performance without worrying about their smiles.

Understanding the differences between these types of mouthguards can help you make an informed decision about your oral health. Remember, when it comes to protecting your smile, quality and fit matter. Choose ClearClub for the perfect balance of comfort, protection, and peace of mind.

Have questions? Our customer support team can help, or you can check out our FAQ for more information.