Cambie Dental
General Dentistry

Custom vs Store‑Bought Mouth Guards

By Cambie Team March 26, 2026 5 min read
Custom vs Store‑Bought Mouth Guards

You can buy a mouth guard at any drugstore, so why choose a custom one? The difference comes down to fit, comfort, and how well it actually protects you.

The Problem With One‑Size‑Fits‑All

Store‑bought guards come in generic shapes or the boil‑and‑bite style, which only roughly conforms to your teeth. Because the fit is imprecise, they can feel bulky, shift around, and make it hard to breathe or sleep.

A guard that does not stay put or feels uncomfortable is a guard you will not wear. That defeats the entire purpose of protecting your teeth.

The Custom Difference

A custom guard is made from a precise impression or scan of your mouth, so it fits snugly and comfortably. That accurate fit means better protection and a guard you can actually keep in all night or through a game.

Custom guards are also made from durable materials built to last, and they can be tailored in thickness to your specific needs, whether that is grinding protection or sports.

Worth the Difference

A custom guard is an investment, but it protects teeth that are far more costly to repair or replace. When it fits well and feels comfortable, you are much more likely to use it consistently.

At our Vancouver clinic we make guards tailored to how you will use them. Ask us at your next visit whether a custom guard is right for you.

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