About mouthguards

A mouthguard is tailormade to you. It provides a protective cover which fits exactly over your teeth and gums to cushion and protect your teeth, gums and jaw from damage.

Why would I need a mouthguard?

For playing sports: such as rugby, cricket, hockey and/or football you might want to consider a mouth guard. A mouthguard will act as a shock absorber to help protect against a painful broken or dislocated jaw.

For teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism): a mouthguard can act as a barrier between your bottom and top teeth, providing relief from the pressure, reducing wear on your teeth and helping to lessen the grinding sound.

For temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems: mouthguards can sometimes be made specially to fit your mouth, in order to take the pressure away from any biting or grinding caused by TMJ. If this is causing the problem, relieving the tension may help reduce the pain.

How are mouthguards made?

At Portman Smile Clinic Bicester, we will make your mouthguard to fit the exact shape of your teeth, gums and jaw; ensuring that it stays in place comfortably, provides maximum protection and lasts for as long as possible.

The process:

  • Your dentist will take an impression or scan of your teeth which will be sent to a dental laboratory
  • This first impression is used to make a complete plaster cast model of your jaw, gums and teeth
  • Dental laboratory technicians shape material around this model to create your mouth guard, making sure that the bite is as comfortable as possible
  • Your custom-made mouth guard will be sent back to [practice name]

Your mouthguard will come with care instructions and a container to protect it when you are not wearing it.

How to care for your mouthguard

    • After each use, gently clean your mouthguard with your toothbrush and toothpaste
    • When you’re not wearing it, always store it in its protective case
    • Keep it away from hot water and direct sunlight, as heat can cause it to soften, lose its shape, or melt

    It’s important to replace your mouthguard regularly. This helps keep it clean and ensures it still fits properly, as your teeth can naturally shift over time.

    With good care, a strong and well-made mouthguard can last a long time. However, most mouthguards usually need replacing every six months to one year, depending on how often you use it and whether it takes any impact during sport. If your teeth are still growing or moving, you may need a new mouthguard more often to make sure it stays comfortable and protective.

Can I buy a mouthguard from a sports shop?

Yes, you can buy mouthguards from many sports stores. These are often called ‘boil and bite’ mouthguards. They are designed to be softened in hot water at home and then shaped around your teeth while still warm.

While these mouthguards can offer some protection, they are made to fit many different mouth shapes, so they are not as precise as a custom-made mouthguard made by a dentist or orthodontist. Because of this, they can feel uncomfortable, bulky, or not stay in place very well. The heating and cooling process can also make them more likely to crack or wear out over time.

For the best comfort, fit, and protection, it’s recommended that you talk to us about a custom-made mouthguard that is designed specifically for your teeth, gums and jaw.

To get a custom-made mouthguard, contact your Portman Smile Clinic Bicester dentist to make an appointment.