how to size a mouth guard

3 min read 02-02-2025

Meta Description: Finding the right fit is crucial for mouthguard protection. This comprehensive guide explains how to measure for and size a mouthguard, covering boil-and-bite, stock, and custom options. Learn about the importance of proper fit for comfort, performance, and injury prevention!

Mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw during sports and other activities. But a poorly fitting mouthguard is almost as bad as having no mouthguard at all. It can be uncomfortable, restrict breathing and speaking, and even fail to provide adequate protection. This guide will walk you through how to determine the correct size for your mouthguard, regardless of the type you choose.

Types of Mouthguards and Sizing

There are three main types of mouthguards: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fitted. Each requires a slightly different approach to sizing:

1. Stock Mouthguards

Sizing: Stock mouthguards come in pre-determined sizes (usually small, medium, and large). These are generally the least expensive option but offer the poorest fit.
How to Choose: Select the size based on the manufacturer's size chart. Often, these charts use age ranges as a guide. However, this isn't always accurate. Try different sizes to determine the best fit. It should fit comfortably without being too loose or too tight. If it's too tight, it may restrict breathing and airflow. If it's too loose, it could move around and offer minimal protection.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Sizing: Boil-and-bite mouthguards are designed to be molded to the shape of your teeth. They typically come in one size.
How to Choose: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. The molding process allows for a more customized fit than stock mouthguards. However, the final fit still depends heavily on the precision of the molding process. If done incorrectly, it could still be uncomfortable or ill-fitting.

3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

Sizing: Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by a dentist or athletic professional based on an impression of your teeth. This is the most expensive option, but also provides the best fit and protection.
How to Choose: This method doesn't involve self-sizing. A professional takes impressions of your teeth and creates a custom-fit mouthguard. This process guarantees the most accurate and comfortable fit.

Measuring for a Mouthguard (for Boil-and-Bite and Stock Mouthguards)

While custom mouthguards are sized by a professional, you can take some measurements at home to guide your choice for stock and boil-and-bite mouthguards:

1. Measure your mouth's width: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the widest part of your mouth, from one cheek to the other, inside your mouth. 2. Measure from your front teeth to the back molars: Measure from the front of your incisors to the furthest back molar on both the upper and lower jaw. Consider the broadest part of your jaw. 3. Consider your age and gender: While not a precise measurement, age and gender can provide a general indication of mouth size. Manufacturers often use this information for size ranges in their charts. 4. Compare your measurements to the manufacturer's size chart: Most boil-and-bite and stock mouthguard manufacturers provide size charts, although accuracy may vary.

Signs of a Poorly Fitting Mouthguard

Regardless of the type of mouthguard, here are some indicators that you need a better fit:

Discomfort: The mouthguard should fit snugly but not be painful or cause excessive pressure.
Difficulty breathing: A too-tight mouthguard can restrict breathing.
Difficulty speaking: A poorly fitting mouthguard can make it difficult to speak clearly.
Movement during activity: The mouthguard should stay in place during activity. If it slides around or falls out, it needs a better fit.
Limited protection: A poorly fitting mouthguard won't effectively cushion impacts.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size mouthguard is crucial for both comfort and safety. While custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best fit, boil-and-bite and even stock options can offer sufficient protection with careful consideration of the sizing and fitting process. Pay close attention to how your mouthguard feels. If it's uncomfortable or doesn't stay in place, don't hesitate to seek advice from a dentist or athletic trainer, or try a different size or type of mouthguard. Your dental health and safety are worth the extra effort.