If you play a contact sport, a custom mouth guard is one of the best ways to protect your teeth, lips and jaw from a knock. A mouth guard made from an impression of your own teeth fits snugly, stays in place during play and lets you breathe and speak more easily than a loose, shop-bought one. At Pearl Roots Dental Clinic in Ngong, mouth guards are part of our preventive care, and you can ask about one at a free consultation.
Why your teeth need protection on the pitch
A single tackle, elbow or fall can chip a front tooth, crack it, push it out of position or knock it out entirely. Repairing that damage can involve bonding, a crown, a bridge or an implant, which means time in the chair and a cost far higher than the guard itself. A well-fitted mouth guard spreads the force of a blow across the teeth and cushions the impact, lowering the risk of serious injury to the teeth and soft tissues.
That makes a mouth guard a small, cost-effective way to protect your smile.
Custom vs boil-and-bite vs shop-bought
There are three broad types of sports mouth guard, and they differ a lot in fit and comfort.
| Feature | Stock (shop-bought, ready to wear) | Boil-and-bite | Custom-made by a dentist |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it is made | Pre-formed in standard sizes | Softened in hot water, then bitten into at home | Made from an impression of your own teeth |
| Fit | Often loose and bulky | Better, but uneven and easy to get wrong | Snug and accurate |
| Stays in place during play | Often needs clenching to hold it | Fair | Yes, without clenching |
| Breathing and speaking | Can be difficult | Moderate | Easier, because it is slimmer and fits closely |
| Comfort over a full match | Low | Moderate | High |
| Upfront cost | Lowest | Low | Higher |
| Value over time | Often replaced or simply not worn | May need remoulding or replacing | Good value because it is comfortable enough to actually wear |
The biggest weakness of a cheap guard is that players often take it out because it feels bulky or makes them gag. A mouth guard only works if it is in your mouth. Comfort is what turns protection into a habit, which is why a custom fit is often the better value even if it costs more upfront. You will get a clear quote at your consultation before anything is made.
Bring your sports schedule to your appointment. If you have a tournament or a new season coming up, tell us early so your guard is ready in time.
Which sports call for a mouth guard?
Any activity with a risk of falls, collisions or flying equipment is worth protecting against. Common examples include:
- Rugby: scrums, tackles and rucks bring constant contact. Rugby is hugely popular in Kenyan schools and clubs, and a mouth guard is widely regarded as essential kit.
- Boxing: punches to the face and jaw make a mouth guard standard equipment in both training and bouts.
- Martial arts: karate, taekwondo, judo and kickboxing all involve strikes, throws or falls.
- Hockey: a fast-moving ball and swinging sticks can easily reach the mouth.
- Basketball: elbows under the basket and falls on a hard court cause more dental injuries than many people expect.
If your child plays school sport, a mouth guard is just as important for them. Growing children may need a new one as their teeth and jaws change, so we check the fit at routine visits. Our paediatric dentistry team can help with younger athletes.
How a custom mouth guard is made
The process is straightforward:
- Examination: we check your teeth and gums and talk about the sport you play.
- Impression: we take an accurate mould of your teeth.
- Making the guard: the guard is formed to fit the shape of your teeth.
- Fitting: you try it in, and we check the fit and comfort before you take it home.
If you wear braces, let us know. Players with orthodontic appliances need a guard designed with their braces in mind, and we can advise you.
Caring for your mouth guard
A well looked after guard stays hygienic and lasts longer. Follow these simple habits:
- Rinse it in cool water before and after every use.
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
- Keep it in a ventilated case so it can dry and is protected in your kit bag.
- Keep it away from heat: do not leave it in a hot car, in direct sun or in hot water, as it can warp.
- Never share it with teammates.
- Check it regularly for tears, holes or a loose fit, and bring it to your check-ups so we can look at it.
Replace your guard if it is damaged, no longer fits well, or if you have had dental work that changes the shape of your teeth.
What about night guards for grinding?
Some people clench or grind their teeth at night, which can wear the teeth down and cause jaw discomfort. Guards for night grinding exist and are designed differently from sports guards. If you suspect you grind your teeth, mention it at your consultation and we can examine your teeth and talk through your options.
If a tooth is knocked out
If a tooth is damaged during sport, contact a dentist as soon as possible. Our dental emergency guide explains what to do in the first few minutes. If there is a head injury, heavy bleeding, swelling spreading to the face or neck, or any difficulty breathing or swallowing, go to a hospital straight away.
For more on how we help protect teeth before problems start, see our preventive dentistry page.
Frequently asked questions
Is a custom mouth guard worth it compared with a shop-bought one?
For anyone who plays regularly, usually yes. A custom guard fits closely, stays in place and is comfortable enough to wear for a whole match, which is what actually protects your teeth. A guard that stays in your bag protects nothing.
Can I wear a mouth guard with braces?
Yes, and it is a good idea, because a knock can damage both teeth and braces.
How long does a mouth guard last?
It depends on how often you use it and how well you care for it. Check it regularly and bring it to your routine visits. Children and teenagers may need replacements more often as their mouths grow.
Do I need to book a consultation first?
Yes. A free consultation lets us examine your teeth, understand your sport and give you a clear plan and quote with no obligation.