Custom Guards
Custom guards are fabricated for bruxism management, sports protection, and post-restorative maintenance. Accurate model adaptation improves retention, comfort, and overnight compliance.
We offer thickness and material options to match therapeutic goals and patient tolerance. Digital workflow ensures precise fit and minimal adjustment chairside.
Material Options
- Hard acrylic (MMA): Maximum durability, ideal for severe bruxism, long-term wear
- Soft vinyl (EVA): Comfortable, impact-absorbing, recommended for sports guards and mild clenching
- Dual-laminate (hard/soft): Hard outer layer with soft inner liner – combines durability with comfort
- Thermoplastic (PETG): Clear, flexible, suitable for mild bruxism and night guard compliance
- Thickness range: 1.5 mm (soft), 2–3 mm (standard), 3–5 mm (hard for bruxism)
Indications & Benefits
- Bruxism / Clenching: Prevents tooth wear, muscle fatigue, and TMJ strain
- Sports protection: Custom-fit mouthguards for contact sports (boxing, football, rugby)
- Post‑restorative protection: Safeguards crowns, implants, and orthodontic appliances
- Snoring / sleep apnea: Mandibular advancement devices available on request
- Whitening trays: Custom bleaching splints for in‑office or take‑home whitening
Precision Fabrication Workflow
1. Impressions / Scan
Accurate PVS or digital intraoral scan
2. Model Fabrication
Poured stone model, trimmed, die preparation
3. Fabrication
Vacuum forming, pressure lamination, or CAD/CAM milling
4. Finishing & QC
Trimming, polishing, fit verification, packaging
Comparison of Guard Types
| Type | Material | Thickness | Indication | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hard Night Guard | Hard acrylic (MMA) | 2–3 mm | Severe bruxism, TMJ disorders | Very high (5+ years) |
| Soft Night Guard | EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) | 2–3 mm | Mild clenching, bruxism | Moderate (1–2 years) |
| Dual‑Laminate Guard | Hard outer / soft inner | 3–4 mm | Moderate to severe bruxism with comfort needs | High (3–4 years) |
| Sports Mouthguard | EVA (multi‑layer) | 3–5 mm | Contact sports, impact protection | High (seasonal replacement) |
| Whitening Tray | Clear PETG | 0.8–1.5 mm | Custom bleaching splint | Moderate (re‑use for whitening cycles) |
*Our lab offers all types; please specify indication and material preference when ordering.
Clinical Applications — Custom Guards
Protecting smiles, preventing wear
Severe attrition, loss of occlusal anatomy, dentin exposure
Patient reported morning headaches and jaw soreness
Custom hard acrylic guard, full‑arch coverage, 2.5 mm thickness
6‑month follow‑up: reduced symptoms, no further wear progression
Custom Fit
Made from accurate models, ensuring retention without dislodgment; minimal adjustment needed chairside.
Tailored Thickness
We adjust thickness based on bruxism severity, patient comfort, and prescribed therapeutic goal.
Material Selection
Hard, soft, or dual‑laminate – choose based on indication, durability, and patient preference.
Fast Turnaround
Routine delivery 3–5 days; expedited options for urgent sports or post‑operative protection.
Frequently Asked Questions — Custom Guards
Everything about night guards, sports mouthguards, and whitening trays
How do I know if my patient needs a hard or soft guard?
Hard acrylic guards are recommended for moderate to severe bruxism to prevent tooth wear. Soft guards are suitable for mild clenching and sports protection. Dual‑laminate offers a compromise between comfort and durability.
How long does a custom guard last?
Hard acrylic: 3–5 years with proper care. Soft guards: 1–2 years. Sports guards should be replaced annually or after impact. Regular inspection is recommended.
Can a guard be made from a digital scan?
Absolutely. We accept intraoral scans (iTero, 3Shape, CEREC) for digital model fabrication, ensuring high precision and faster turnaround.
Can a guard be used for both bruxism and sports?
While possible, we recommend dedicated guards for each purpose. Sports guards are thicker and designed for impact absorption; night guards are optimized for occlusal stability during sleep.
What warranty do you offer on custom guards?
Deyu Dental Lab provides a 1‑year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Adjustments for fit within the first 30 days are complimentary.
What records do I need to send for a guard case?
Accurate maxillary and mandibular impressions or digital scans, bite registration (if needed), shade selection for whitening trays, and a prescription indicating guard type and thickness.
Quote / Consultation Form
*Our team will respond within 24 business hours with a detailed quote and case planning recommendations.