Mouthguards serve as protective devices for the teeth, gums, and jaw, protecting these oral structures. They are commonly used in sports to prevent injuries and also protect individuals who grind or clench their teeth, a condition known as bruxism. The materials from which a mouthguard is constructed directly influence its effectiveness in safeguarding oral health.
Stock Mouthguards: Simple Composition
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed, ready-to-wear options that offer the least customized fit. These off-the-shelf options are typically made from basic plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or rubber. Their rigidity prevents adaptation to individual mouth contours, leading to a loose or bulky universal fit. Widely available and affordable, their simple composition limits durability and comfort. Some may contain phthalates or latex, potentially causing irritation or allergies.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Thermoplastic Design
Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer improved customization, using moldable thermoplastic materials. Commonly made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), sometimes blended with polymers, EVA is a flexible, rubber-like material that absorbs impact. The molding process involves softening the material in hot water, then biting down to mold it to the teeth and gums as it cools. This creates a semi-customized fit, improving protection and comfort over stock options.
Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Precision Materials
Custom-fit mouthguards are professionally made by a dental professional, offering precision and protection. Fabricated from an impression of the teeth, they ensure an exact fit. Materials often include multi-layer laminates of high-grade polymers like medical-grade EVA, polyurethanes, or acrylics.
Medical-grade EVA and copolyester are chosen for safety, being BPA-free and FDA-approved. Vacuum-forming or pressure-forming techniques create a precise, tailored appliance. This design allows for superior comfort, retention, and targeted protection, with variable material thicknesses (e.g., 3-4mm in the anterior for sports).
Essential Material Properties for Protection
Effective mouthguard materials have fundamental properties for protection. Shock absorption is a primary characteristic, dissipating impact forces and reducing stress on teeth. Materials like EVA absorb shock well; increased thickness enhances this. Durability and tear resistance are also important, allowing the mouthguard to withstand repeated use and impacts without breakdown. Flexibility and resilience enable conformity to oral structures and return to shape after deformation.
Comfort and fit are crucial; materials should be smooth, not bulky, and allow natural breathing and speaking. Biocompatibility is essential, meaning materials must be non-toxic and safe for oral contact. Medical-grade silicone, polypropylene, and BPA-free polymers are examples of materials chosen for biocompatibility. Materials should also be easy to clean and resist bacterial growth for hygiene.