Custom Mouth Guards from Your Omaha Orthodontist

Discover Custom Mouthguard Solutions at McAllister Orthodontics in Omaha, Fremont, and Elkhorn.


Maintaining the integrity of your smile, especially when you have braces, is crucial during sports activities. Mouthguards play a vital role in safeguarding your teeth and gums from potential injuries that can occur in various sports.


For those engaged in sports like basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, or wrestling, wearing a mouthguard is strongly recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists. This protective gear is not just a recommendation but a necessity in contact sports to prevent dental injuries.


Selecting an appropriate mouthguard is a critical decision, particularly for individuals wearing braces or a retainer. A well-fitted mouthguard provides the necessary protection while ensuring comfort during play. At McAllister Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of wearing mouthguards during sports and can guide you in choosing and properly using the right type. Our orthodontic expertise ensures that your mouthguard not only fits well with braces or retainers but also offers optimal protection for your teeth and smile.


Whether you're a professional athlete or a recreational sports enthusiast, the right mouthguard is an indispensable part of your sporting gear. We are here to assist you in making an informed choice, ensuring that your orthodontic treatment complements your active lifestyle. Our commitment extends to educating our patients from Omaha, Fremont, and Elkhorn about the importance of protecting their orthodontic investments, encouraging a proactive approach to dental safety in sports.


Types of Mouthguards

Pre-Fitted Mouthguard

These mouthguards are ready-to-use and can be purchased from most sports stores. Pre-fitted mouthguards offer a quick solution for sports enthusiasts. However, they may be less comfortable as they tend to be bulkier and require continuous clenching to keep in place, which can hinder easy breathing and clear speech.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguard

Boil-and-bite mouthguards, available at sporting goods stores, offer a more personalized fit than pre-fitted ones. Made from thermoplastic material, they become moldable when heated in water. Once softened, you bite into them, allowing them to conform to the shape of your teeth and gums. While they provide a better fit than pre-fitted guards, they still may not offer the same level of comfort and protection as custom-made options.

Custom-Made Mouthguard

Custom-made mouthguards are crafted specifically for your dental profile by an orthodontist. These mouthguards deliver superior protection and comfort as they are precisely tailored to fit your teeth, jaws, and mouth structure. Unlike pre-fitted or boil-and-bite options, custom-made mouthguards are designed considering your unique dental needs, ensuring they fit perfectly without impeding speech or breathing. This personalized approach not only enhances comfort but also maximizes the protection of your teeth during sports activities.

Custom Mouth Guards from Your Omaha Orthodontist Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why choose a custom-made mouthguard?

    Custom-made mouthguards are tailored to your unique dental structure, providing the best fit and protection. They're comfortable, don't impede breathing or speaking, and are ideal for those with braces or specific dental needs.

  • How long does a custom mouthguard last?

    The durability of a custom mouthguard varies with usage and care. With proper maintenance, it can last for years, but replacement is advised if you notice dental changes or wear signs. This is vital for individuals with braces or undergoing dental treatments, as these changes can impact the mouthguard's fit and protective ability.

  • Is a mouthguard necessary for non-contact sports?

    Wearing a mouthguard in non-contact sports is recommended, as unexpected impacts or falls can occur, risking dental injury. It's a key protective measure, safeguarding your teeth against accidents. A mouthguard in any sport is a proactive step for dental safety.

  • Are there different types of custom mouthguards?

    Custom mouthguards vary to suit sports' intensity and personal preferences. They're designed with different thicknesses and materials for high-impact sports like football or hockey, and thinner versions for less intense activities, focusing on comfort and protection.

  • What's the difference between a night guard and a sports mouthguard?

    Night guards protect against teeth grinding during sleep, preventing wear and reducing jaw tension. Sports mouthguards are for physical activities, absorbing impact forces to prevent dental injuries. Each serves a unique protective role in dental health.

  • How often should I replace my mouthguard?

    Replace your mouthguard when it's worn, damaged, or doesn't fit due to dental changes. Regular inspections are key. For active athletes or those with braces, frequent replacements ensure continued protection. Consult your orthodontist for the best replacement schedule.

  • Can a mouthguard help with teeth grinding during sports?

    While sports mouthguards aren't designed for grinding, they provide a barrier that can reduce wear from inadvertent clenching or grinding during intense physical activity, protecting both teeth and restorations.

  • How can I tell if my mouthguard fits correctly?

    A proper fit means the mouthguard stays in place comfortably without needing to bite or clench. It shouldn't cause gagging, impede speech, or restrict breathing. It should cover all teeth and extend slightly to the gum line.

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