What Materials Are Mouthguards Made Of?

If you're wondering, what materials are mouthguards made of, you're not alone. Mouthguards are essential for protecting teeth during sports, preventing nighttime grinding, or managing jaw pain. The material used directly impacts comfort, protection, and durability. Whether you're choosing an over-the-counter guard or getting one custom-made by a dentist, understanding the materials can help you pick the best one for your needs.

Common Materials Used in Mouthguards:

Mouthguards are crafted from various types of plastics and polymers, each offering different benefits.

• Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA): A flexible and soft plastic used in many boil-and-bite and custom guards

• Thermoplastic: Used in stock and boil-and-bite guards, it softens with heat to mold to your teeth

• Polyurethane: Known for durability and impact resistance, often used in high-end sports mouthguards

• Acrylic: A hard plastic used mostly in nightguards for bruxism, offering a rigid structure

• Silicone-based materials: Sometimes used for extra comfort, though less common due to low durability

• Dual-laminate materials: Combine soft and hard layers for both comfort and strength

The choice of material often depends on the type of protection needed and the user's comfort preferences.

How Material Affects Comfort and Fit?

The material not only determines how the mouthguard functions but also how it feels in your mouth.

• EVA and thermoplastics are soft, making them more comfortable for long-term use

• Hard acrylic offers stability but may feel bulky for some users

• Dual-layer guards provide a cushioned inside and a durable outside for balanced performance

• Materials should be non-toxic, BPA-free, and safe for oral contact

• Softer materials are ideal for light grinders or general sports use

• Harder materials are best for heavy bruxism or professional-level contact sports

A well-chosen material helps ensure the mouthguard stays in place without discomfort.

Material Choice Based on Mouthguard Type:

Different types of mouthguards require different materials to perform their specific functions effectively.

• Stock mouthguards are made from low-cost thermoplastics and offer basic protection

• Boil-and-bite guards use EVA, which molds to your teeth after being heated

• Custom mouthguards from a dentist often use dual-laminate or EVA for precision and comfort

• Nightguards for teeth grinding typically use acrylic or dual-laminate for long-term wear

• Sports guards may include impact-absorbing polyurethane for added safety

• TMJ mouthguards need materials that provide both structure and cushion

Matching the material to the purpose ensures optimal protection and user experience.

Pros and Cons of Different Materials:

Each material used in mouthguards comes with its own set of advantages and limitations.

• EVA: Comfortable, moldable, affordable, but wears out faster

• Thermoplastic: Easy to use at home, but not as durable as custom options

• Polyurethane: Strong and shock-absorbent but may be less comfortable

• Acrylic: Long-lasting and rigid, ideal for bruxism, but can feel bulky

• Silicone: Soft and gentle but not as supportive or durable

• Dual-laminate: Offers the best of both worlds, but can be more expensive

Knowing these differences can help you make an informed decision when selecting a mouthguard.

Safety and FDA-Approved Materials:

It’s essential that Best Mouthguards Treatment be made from materials that are both safe and effective.

• Always choose BPA-free and phthalate-free materials to avoid toxic exposure

• Look for products that are FDA-approved or dentist-recommended

• Avoid cheap imports with unknown or untested plastics

• If you have allergies, make sure the material is latex-free

• Reputable brands and dental professionals use high-quality, medical-grade materials

• Mouthguards used by children should be especially scrutinized for safety standards

Quality materials don’t just offer better performance—they protect your overall health too.