Mouth Formed Protector

THE MOUTH FORMED PROTECTOR

This type of mouthguard is best fitted by a dentist, who usually shapes a plasticized acrylic gel or thermoplastic material to conform to the contours of the athlete's teeth. There are two types. The first type is called a shell-liner mouth formed protector, because the acrylic gel is poured into a pre-made firm outer shell and forms a lining. Although secure and well fitted, this type has several disadvantages; oral fluids may cause the liner to become hard and this type of mouthguard is more complicated to make for athletes who wear braces.

The second type is a thermoplastic mouth formed protector. This type is the most easily formed, since it is usually softened by immersing in hot water. It is then shaped in the mough to the teeth by using finger, tongue, and sometimes biting pressure. If professionally fitted, it can be worn with orthodontic appliances. Often, it can be refitted if it becomes loose.