Are Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards Safe? What to Know

Are boil-and-bite mouth guards safe to use?

They can be a reasonable choice for sports, if you fit them by the directions. The American Dental Association (ADA) says that if you cannot afford a custom-made mouthguard, you should still wear a stock mouthguard or a boil-and-bite mouthguard from the drugstore. The ADA also notes that, to be effective, a mouthguard has to be used.

The limits matter too. A boil-and-bite guard is shaped by you at home, not by a dentist, so how well it fits depends on how well you mold it. A custom guard is made from impressions of your teeth. The sections below explain the gaps.

What is a boil-and-bite mouth guard?

It is a guard that softens in hot water and then molds to your teeth. The ADA says it is first softened in water, then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth. It can be bought at many sporting goods stores and drugstores, and may offer a better fit than a stock mouth protector.

A mouth guard is any appliance that covers your teeth. A sports guard is the kind made for impact, and a night guard is made for grinding. The ADA’s detailed page says the boil-and-bite type softens in hot water for about 15 seconds, then is briefly cooled and placed in the mouth for fitting.

How do I fit one correctly?

Follow the maker’s directions every time. The ADA says the process should follow manufacturer instructions to ensure proper heating and molding. It warns that poor shaping can result in a poorly fitted device. A guard that does not fit well may slip, bulk up, or fail to cover the teeth it should.

Use this simple routine:

1. Read the package directions before you heat anything.
2. Heat the guard for the time shown. Do not guess.
3. Place it in your mouth and bite as directed so it takes the shape of your teeth.
4. Check that it covers your teeth and stays in place.
5. If it feels off, ask your dentist to look at it. Do not wear a poor fit.

A dentist can look at the fit and tell you if it needs help. Ask, especially if you have braces.

How does it compare with custom and stock guards?

A custom guard fits most closely. The ADA’s consumer site says a mouthguard custom made for your mouth by your dentist is its first choice. The ADA also says other types can be effective if they are properly made and consistently worn.

Cleveland Clinic says store-bought guards cost less but are not as effective as custom-made ones for protection against grinding or sports-related injuries. It also says store-bought guards are not as durable, so you may need to replace them more often. Read our guide to sports mouthguards for a longer comparison.

Can I use a boil-and-bite guard for teeth grinding?

It is not a good match. Cleveland Clinic says store-bought guards are not as effective as custom-made ones for protection against teeth grinding, and not appropriate for sleep apnea. The ADA says night guards are different from sports guards. Read about the difference between a night guard and a mouth guard.

Who should wear a mouth guard for sports?

Anyone at risk of a hit to the face. The ADA says a mouthguard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard equipment from an early age. It says collision and contact sports, such as boxing, are higher risk for the mouth, but any athlete may be injured in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating.

The ADA adds that mouthguards help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw. If a tooth is knocked out in spite of a guard, speed matters. Read what to do in the first 30 minutes.

What if I wear braces?

Ask your dentist before you buy. The ADA says a properly fitted mouthguard may be especially important for people who wear braces or have fixed bridge work. It suggests talking with your dentist or orthodontist about a mouthguard that will provide the right protection.

How do I care for it and when do I replace it?

Rinse before and after each use, or brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. The ADA says to store it in a sturdy vented container so it can dry, and never to leave it in the sun or in hot water. Replace it right away if it shows wear, is damaged or fits poorly. Children and teens may need a new one more often because their mouths are growing.

What does Town Center Dental offer?

The practice lists a custom mouth guard and a sports guard as services, with its own description of each. A dentist can look at your mouth, your sport and your budget with you.

What should I ask my dentist about my mouth guard?

A short visit can settle most questions. Bring the guard you have, or the one you plan to buy, and ask:

• Does this guard cover the right teeth and stay put when I bite down?
• Would a custom guard make sense for my sport or my braces?
• How often should my child’s guard be checked as their mouth grows?
• Is my current guard worn out or damaged?
• How long might a custom guard take to make?

Your dentist can look at the fit and tell you what to change. A guard that is only in the bag does nothing, so a guard that fits and is actually worn is the one that protects.

Next step

If you play sports or have a child who does, ask about a guard made for your teeth. Read about the custom mouth guard at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment.