Why Custom Athletic Mouthguards Are Superior to Store-Bought
A custom athletic mouthguard is made from a precise impression of your teeth, fabricated in a professional dental laboratory from high-quality ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or laminated material — producing a guard that protects far better than any over-the-counter option.
Is Custom Athletic Mouthguards right for you? Signs, symptoms & candidacy.
Recognizing the signs early makes treatment simpler. Here’s what we look for — and the surest way to know is a quick exam with a Boca dentist.
Sports Where a Mouthguard Is Recommended or Required
- Collision and contact sports: football, hockey, lacrosse, rugby, wrestling, martial arts, and boxing
- Ball sports with impact risk: basketball, soccer, baseball/softball, and volleyball
- Action and individual sports: gymnastics, skateboarding and action sports, and cycling
- Any activity with collision risk, for athletes of all ages
How Getting a Custom Mouthguard Works at Boca in Reno
Appointment
A 20–30 minute appointment for impressions, done at your regular cleaning or as a standalone visit.
Impressions
Precise dental impressions are taken of the upper arch (and lower if indicated).
Lab Fabrication
A custom mouthguard is fabricated from high-quality material in team colors or standard options.
Fitting & Delivery
The guard is delivered at a follow-up appointment, where fit is verified and minor adjustments are made if needed.
Ready for Season
The athlete leaves with a protective guard that fits, stays in, and can actually be worn during play.
A custom mouthguard is typically ready within about 1 week from the impression appointment.
Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard
Exact Custom Fit
Fits your exact dental anatomy — no trimming, boiling, or bite-and-set required.
Stays Put on Impact
Because it fits correctly, it doesn't shift or fall out during contact.
Breathe & Speak Normally
Allows normal breathing and speaking — critical for high-exertion sports.
Superior Shock Absorption
Absorbs and distributes impact forces effectively, protecting teeth, jawbone, and soft tissue.
Comfortable Enough to Wear
Comfortable enough that athletes actually keep it in.
Custom (Boca) vs. Store-Bought
| Factor | Custom (Boca) | Store-Bought |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Exact — made from impressions | Approximate — generic shape |
| Retention | Stays in place during impact | Can shift or come out |
| Protection level | Superior — even distribution | Moderate — uneven distribution |
| Breathing ease | Yes — thin and precise fit | Bulky — interferes with breathing |
| Speech | Normal speech possible | Often muffled or distorted |
| Durability | 2–5 years | 1 season |
| Cost | $200–$400 | $20–$50 (replaced frequently) |
| Custom colors | Yes — team colors available | Limited options |
Why Reno Patients Choose Boca Dental & Braces for Custom Athletic Mouthguards
What sets us apart
- Custom mouthguards available at all 3 Reno locations including Sparks Kids & Braces for young athletes
- Adult, teen, and youth sizes — all athletes welcome
- Team color options — Reno school sports teams, club athletes, professionals
- Most PPO insurance accepts custom mouthguards under restorative benefits (check at appointment)
- Nevada Medicaid may cover for qualifying patients
- Typically ready within 1 week from impression
Custom Athletic Mouthguards in Reno — Your Questions, Answered
Everything Reno and Sparks patients ask us most about custom athletic mouthguards — tap any question to read the answer.
How Much Does a Custom Athletic Mouthguard Cost in Reno, NV?
At Boca, cost should never stand between you and the care you need. We accept Nevada Medicaid and many major dental plans, verify your benefits at no charge, and offer flexible financing — so you can move forward with confidence.
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Find Custom Athletic Mouthguards Near You — 3 Boca Dental & Braces Locations Across Reno
Boca Specialty Dental & Braces provides custom athletic mouthguards for Reno and Sparks athletes of all ages and all sports — from youth leagues to adult recreational sports. Team color options available.
Book Your Custom Athletic Mouthguards Appointment
Choose your nearest Boca location and we'll confirm within one business hour. Same-day and next-day appointments available.