Current Patients:
610-688-2230

New Patients:
​610-600-1559

A smile is worth protecting. Whether you’re a student-athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who wakes up with a sore jaw, a custom mouthguard from Strafford Dental can help. Dr. Eric Gartner creates guards that fit your teeth perfectly, so they offer real protection without the bulk or discomfort of store-bought options.

Visit Strafford Dental in Wayne, PA, for preventive care and strong protection you will actually use.

Custom Mouthguards in Wayne, PA

Why You Need a Custom Mouthguard

Off-the-shelf mouthguards are better than nothing. But they often slip, making it hard to breathe and offering limited protection. A custom guard is different. It’s made from an exact mold of your teeth, so it stays put, feels natural, and provides the best possible defense against injury or wear.

Here’s why a custom fit matters:

  • It stays in place. You can talk, breathe, and play without constantly adjusting it.
  • It protects better. A snug fit absorbs and spreads out impact forces more effectively than a loose guard.
  • It’s more comfortable. You’re much more likely to wear a guard that doesn’t feel bulky or awkward.

Two Types of Custom Guards We Offer

Sports Mouthguards

Contact sports like football, hockey, and lacrosse come with risks. Even non-contact sports like basketball and soccer can lead to an unexpected elbow or fall. A custom sports guard helps absorb those impacts and lowers your risk of chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. It also helps protect your lips and cheeks from cuts.

We design sports guards to be strong yet slim. They protect your teeth so you can focus on the game.

Night Guards for Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Do you wake up with a headache, jaw pain, or sensitive teeth? You might be grinding your teeth at night without knowing it. Over time, this habit wears down enamel, strains jaw muscles, and can lead to cracks or tooth loss.

A custom night guard creates a smooth barrier between your upper and lower teeth. It helps relax your jaw muscles and reduces the pressure that causes pain. Many patients tell us they wake up feeling more rested and with less tension after using one. Learn more about TMJ issues and treatment here.

The Process: Simple and Comfortable

Getting your custom mouthguard is easy. Here is what you can expect:

  1. Consultation. We talk about your needs. Do you play sports? Do you grind your teeth? We will help you choose the right guard for your lifestyle.
  2. Exam and Scan. Dr. Gartner checks your teeth and bite. Then, we take a quick digital scan or an impression (no messy goop) to get a precise image of your smile.
  3. Custom Fabrication. A dental lab uses that scan to create your guard. We choose the right material and thickness for your specific needs.
  4. Fitting and Adjustments. When your guard is ready, you come back to try it on. We make sure it feels secure and comfortable. We show you how to put it in and take it out.

Easy Care for Long-Lasting Protection

Taking care of your mouthguard is simple:

  • Rinse it before and after each use.
  • Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water.
  • Let it air dry in a vented case.
  • Never leave it in a hot car or use hot water, which can warp it.
  • Bring it to your regular checkups so we can inspect it.

When to Replace Your Guard

A well-cared-for custom guard can last several years. But if it feels loose, develops cracks, or shows signs of wear, it’s time for a new one. Growing kids and teens may need a replacement more often as their mouths change. If you start a new sport or your grinding habits change, we can help you find the right fit.

Patient Review

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a custom mouthguard different from one I buy at the store?

A custom mouthguard from Strafford Dental is made from an exact digital scan of your teeth. This means it fits snugly, stays in place, and offers much better protection than a loose, one-size-fits-all option from a store. You’ll also find it’s more comfortable to wear and breathe in.

Do I really need a mouthguard if I only play casual sports?

Yes. Even in non-contact sports like basketball, soccer, or skateboarding, an accidental fall or elbow can easily chip or knock out a tooth. A custom guard is a simple way to protect your smile from unexpected injuries, no matter the level of play.

Can a night guard help with my morning headaches?

Absolutely. Many people grind or clench their teeth at night without realizing it, which can strain jaw muscles and cause tension headaches. A custom night guard creates a cushion between your teeth, helping to relax those muscles and reduce that morning pain.

I have braces or crowns. Can I still get a custom mouthguard?

Yes. Dr. Gartner can design a custom guard that fits comfortably over braces, crowns, veneers, or implants. This protects both your natural teeth and your dental work, which is especially important for athletes.

How long does it take to get my custom mouthguard?

The process is quick. After your consultation and digital scan, the lab typically fabricates your guard within a couple of weeks. We’ll call you as soon as it’s ready for a quick fitting visit.

How should I clean and care for my mouthguard?

Cleaning is simple. Rinse it with cool water before and after use, and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Always let it air-dry completely in a ventilated case, and never leave it in a hot car, as heat can warp its shape.

How do I know when it’s time to replace my mouthguard?

Check your guard regularly. If it feels loose, shows cracks, or has rough edges, it’s time for a new one. Kids and teens, whose mouths are still growing, may need replacements more often to ensure the fit stays protective.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of a custom mouthguard?

Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for a custom mouthguard, especially if it’s prescribed to treat teeth grinding. Our team can check your specific benefits and explain your costs before you start, so there are no surprises.

Protect Your Smile with a Guard You’ll Actually Wear

Store-bought guards are cheap, but they often end up in a drawer. A custom mouthguard from Strafford Dental is an investment in your smile’s future. It fits, it protects, and it feels like it belongs in your mouth.

If you live in Wayne, Radnor, Malvern, or anywhere on the Main Line, we are your local expert for custom mouthguards.

Call your dentist in Wayne, PA at ​610-600-1559 or request an appointment online. Let us help you keep your smile safe, whether you are on the field or asleep in bed.