Answers

Frequently Asked.

The straight-up answers on custom fit, boil-and-bite, warranty, and everything in between. If we missed something, hit the contact link below.

Custom Fit Mouthguards

Is a custom fit mouthguard worth it?

If you train seriously, yes — and it's not close. A custom fit mouthguard is molded directly from your dental impression, which means it fits your bite exactly. That translates to better protection, better breathing, and a guard that stays in place instead of one you're constantly repositioning mid-round. DC Custom Fit guards are handcrafted in 4-6 business days, backed by a $25,000 dental warranty, and built to last. If you're competing, you owe it to yourself to wear the right gear.

What makes DC Mouthguards better than the competition?

Three things: speed, quality, and your impressions on file permanently. Most custom mouthguard companies take 2-3 weeks. DC ships in 4-6 business days after we receive your impression. Every guard is handmade from high-impact absorbing materials with high-definition graphics — no bubbles, no distortions. And we keep your dental impressions on file forever, so reordering takes minutes. Add a $25,000 dental warranty and a satisfaction guarantee, and there's no comparison.

How does the custom-fit mouthguard process work?

Four steps: Order online and choose your design. We send you a free impression kit. You take your impression at home, drop it in the prepaid return envelope, and mail it back. We handcraft your mouthguard and ship it within 4-6 business days of receiving your impression. Once your impressions are in our system, every future order ships without you ever taking another impression.

How long does it take to get a custom mouthguard?

4-6 business days after we receive your impression — one of the fastest turnaround times in the industry. Standard US shipping after that is 2-5 business days. Need it faster? Rush processing and express shipping are available at checkout. Most competitors take 2-3 weeks. We don't.

Do professional MMA fighters use custom mouthguards?

Yes — and many of them use DC. Top UFC fighters have trained and competed in DC custom fit mouthguards since we launched. At the elite level, a boil-and-bite isn't an option. A guard that shifts mid-round, restricts breathing, or doesn't absorb impact properly is a liability. Custom fit is the standard for serious competitors.

What if I already have my dental impressions on file?

If you've ordered a DC custom mouthguard since September 2017, we have your impressions in our digital database. Just place your order and select 'I already have models on file.' We'll 3D print your teeth models and get to work. No new impression needed. If you have a stone model, 3D print, or digital scan from a dentist, we can work with that too — email your .STL file to dcmouthguards@gmail.com or we'll send a return shipping label for physical models.

How long will DC keep my dental impressions on file?

Forever. We digitally scan every impression and store it permanently in our secure database. You take your impression once — every reorder after that is instant. No repour, no new kit, no waiting.

What sports are DC Mouthguards built for?

DC custom fit mouthguards are built for any sport where your teeth are at risk — MMA, boxing, Muay Thai, wrestling, BJJ, football, hockey, lacrosse, rugby, basketball. If you take hits, you need real protection. Our guards are engineered for maximum shock absorption across all contact sports, and we make sport-specific options like lip guards for football players.

What if my mouthguard causes irritation?

The most common cause is an impression that was removed before the putty fully set — gravity affects the gumline area and the final mold doesn't perfectly represent your gum contours. There's a quick fix you can do at home. Watch our video guide — nine times out of ten it resolves the issue completely. If it doesn't, contact us and we'll take care of it.

If I order 3D Fang mouthguards, will the fangs poke me?

No. The fangs are made from the same material as the rest of the mouthguard — soft, pliable, and comfortable. Because the fang sections are thinner than the main body of the guard, they're actually even softer. The area where the fangs protrude over your top teeth adds extra thickness, which means more protection — not less. Looks intimidating. Feels fine.

How much does a custom mouthguard cost?

DC Custom Fit mouthguards start at $65. Adding HXC impact-distribution technology is $50 more. Rush processing and express shipping are available at additional cost. Considering a DC custom costs less than a single dental visit and comes with a $25,000 dental warranty — it's one of the better investments an athlete can make.

Can I get a mouthguard with my team logo or custom design?

Yes — team branding and custom design are one of DC's specialties. You can upload your logo, add player names and numbers, choose from 150+ existing designs, or build something completely from scratch. High-definition graphics, no bubbles, no distortions. Check out our Design Your Own page or contact us about team sales for volume pricing.

HXC Technology

What is HXC and do I need it?

HXC is DC's proprietary impact-distribution technology — a hard internal layer sandwiched between two soft layers inside your mouthguard. 90% of oral injuries in contact sports happen to the two front teeth. HXC redirects impact forces from those vulnerable front teeth to your stronger back teeth, which have deeper roots and more surface area to absorb the hit. It's invisible from the outside, compatible with all artwork and designs, and highly recommended for anyone in striking sports — MMA, boxing, Muay Thai, kickboxing. It's not required, but if you're taking shots to the face, it's worth it.

Fast Fit — Boil-and-Bite

What's the best boil-and-bite mouthguard for combat sports?

We'll be straight with you — for MMA, boxing, Muay Thai, or any striking sport, a custom fit mouthguard is the right call. Nothing protects like a guard molded to your exact bite. But if you're not ready for custom fit yet, the DC Extreme Impact is the closest thing to custom-level protection you'll find in a boil-and-bite. It's built from Damprotech™ — DC's proprietary shock-absorbing material, independently tested to outperform the standard EVA foam used in most competitor guards. The Extreme Impact also includes built-in shock pads in the base for added impact distribution, and it comes with a carrying case. CE marked to EU safety standards. BPA and latex free. When you're ready to step up, your custom fit starts at $65. Add HXC — our internal impact-distribution technology — and you've got the most protection available in any mouthguard at any price point.

What's the difference between the Extreme Impact and High Impact mouthguards?

Both are made from Damprotech™ — our most shock-absorbent material, tested to outperform standard EVA foam. The difference: the Extreme Impact has built-in shock pads in the base for added impact distribution, and it comes with a mouthguard case. The High Impact doesn't include shock pads or a case. Both come in the same designs. If you're in a high-impact sport and want maximum protection from a boil-and-bite, go Extreme Impact.

What makes DC boil-and-bites better than other brands?

Material science. Most boil-and-bites use standard EVA foam. DC uses Damprotech™ — a proprietary material that has been independently tested to absorb more impact force than standard EVA. Add CE certification (tested to EU safety directives), BPA and latex-free construction, and bold designs you won't find anywhere else, and the difference is clear. These aren't gas station mouthguards.

How do I mold my boil-and-bite mouthguard?

Boil water and pour it into a bowl. Place your mouthguard in the bowl — High Impact for 25 seconds, Extreme Impact for 30 seconds. Remove with tongs, check alignment in a mirror, then place in your mouth and bite down firmly for 30 seconds while applying suction. Run under cold water, then let it set for 24 hours for the best fit. If you're not happy with the fit, repeat the process from the beginning. Video guides for both models are available on the product pages.

Can you reboil a mouthguard if the fit isn't right?

Yes — as many times as you need until you get the fit right. Just repeat the full process. If you have braces, reboil after every orthodontic adjustment.

Are DC mouthguards BPA-free and made from safe materials?

Yes. Every DC mouthguard — custom fit and boil-and-bite — is BPA-free and latex-free. All materials have been chemically tested and evaluated for safety in direct oral contact. Our boil-and-bite models are CE marked, certified to EU safety directives.

What is Damprotech™?

Damprotech™ is DC's proprietary shock-absorbing material used in our boil-and-bite mouthguards. It has been independently tested to absorb more impact energy than the standard EVA foam used in most competitor guards. It's what separates a DC boil-and-bite from everything else at that price point.

Football & Lip Guards

What's the best mouthguard for football?

For youth and recreational players who need something immediately: the DC Extreme Impact with a helmet strap. It molds in 60 seconds, protects lips and teeth, and attaches directly to your face mask. For competitive and serious players: a DC Custom Fit. It's molded to your exact bite, which means better protection, better breathing, and a guard that won't shift during a play. Top-level players don't wear boil-and-bites.

What's the difference between a lip guard and a regular mouthguard?

A lip guard — also called a pacifier mouthguard — extends forward past the teeth to protect your lips from direct impacts. Standard mouthguards sit inside your mouth and protect your teeth and jaw. In football, where you're taking hits from pads, helmets, and the turf, lip protection matters. DC lip guards are designed specifically for football, include a helmet strap, and come in custom fit and boil-and-bite options.

Do football mouthguards need to attach to the helmet?

Not required, but recommended — especially for youth players. A helmet strap keeps the mouthguard accessible between plays and prevents it from being dropped or lost on the field. DC football lip guards include a strap. Custom fit guards can be worn with or without one.

Dental Guards & Braces

Can you wear a mouthguard with braces?

Yes — and you should. DC makes a mouthguard specifically designed for braces that covers the upper teeth and accommodates brackets. Our Extreme Impact boil-and-bite also works well with braces — just reboil after every orthodontic adjustment. One important note: our braces mouthguard won't fit if your child has an expander. Always check with your orthodontist about what's right for your specific treatment plan.

Does a mouthguard help with teeth grinding at night?

Yes. A night guard creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth that prevents the damage caused by grinding (bruxism). DC offers dental guards designed for overnight wear — different from sport mouthguards, which are built for impact. If you're grinding, talk to your dentist about what level of protection you need, and check our dental guard options.

Sizing & Fit

What size mouthguard should I get?

For custom fit: size doesn't apply — we mold to your exact impressions. For boil-and-bite: Junior (ages 6-11), Adult (male teens and adults 12+), or Women's. After handcrafting thousands of mouthguards for women, DC developed a specialized women's size for a more secure, comfortable fit. All three sizes are available in our High Impact and Extreme Impact models.

How long does a custom mouthguard last?

A properly cared-for DC custom mouthguard typically lasts 1-3 years for adults. Kids and teens going through jaw development may need replacements more frequently — typically every 6-12 months. Athletes who train daily at high intensity will also wear through guards faster. As a general rule: if it doesn't fit snugly, it's time to reorder. The good news: your impressions are on file permanently, so reordering takes minutes.

What's the difference between a custom fit and boil-and-bite mouthguard?

A boil-and-bite molds to a general shape of your teeth when you heat and bite it. A custom fit is fabricated from a precise dental impression of your exact bite — every contour, every tooth position. The result is a guard that fits like it was made for you, because it was. Custom fit offers better protection, better breathing, and stays in place without clenching. A good boil-and-bite is a solid option when you need protection immediately. Custom fit is the right choice when you're serious about performance and protection.

Ordering & Shipping

Does DC ship internationally?

Yes — DC ships anywhere in the world. International customers may be subject to duties and import taxes, which vary by country. For custom mouthguard orders: you're responsible for shipping costs to return your impressions to us. We cover shipping the finished mouthguard back to you. Estimated shipping times and costs are shown at checkout.

My tracking says delivered but I haven't received my package — what do I do?

Contact us as soon as possible at dcmouthguards@gmail.com or through our contact page. We'll work with you quickly to locate the package and figure out next steps. Don't wait — the sooner we know, the faster we can help.

Do you offer discount codes or coupons?

Yes — sign up for DC's email or SMS list and you'll get 10% off your first order, plus early access to future promotions. DC Fight Club members also earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for discounts. We don't issue codes on request — join the list or the Fight Club to stay ahead of the deals.

Do you offer team or bulk pricing?

Yes. DC offers team pricing for gyms, academies, schools, and athletic programs. Volume discounts and team branding options are available. Contact us through our wholesale page for pricing and minimums.

Warranty & Coverage

What warranty do DC Mouthguards come with?

Every DC Mouthguard includes a limited dental warranty. Coverage limits vary by product: Custom Fit guards are covered up to $25,000 per incident ($781.25 per tooth). Extreme Impact is covered up to $15,000 per incident ($468.75 per tooth). High Impact, Lip Protector, and Grip Guard are covered up to $10,000 per incident ($312.50 per tooth). The warranty is valid for 1 year from your purchase date, covers dental injuries sustained during supervised athletic activity, and requires no registration — your receipt is your proof of coverage.

What exactly does the dental warranty cover?

The warranty covers dental injuries to your natural teeth caused by defects in the mouthguard's material or workmanship — when used properly during a supervised athletic contest or coach-supervised training session. It does not cover pre-existing dental conditions, orthodontic work, normal wear and tear, or damage from misuse or modification. Full terms are available on our warranty page.

How do I file a warranty claim?

You have 20 days from the incident to submit a claim. Send written notice to Damage Control AthletiX, LLC, 1510 San Pedro Dr. NE STE B, Albuquerque, NM 87110, and include: the mouthguard, your original proof of purchase, a statement confirming the guard was properly fitted and unmodified, and a licensed dentist's written statement and radiograph confirming the injury occurred while wearing the product. Check our Contact Us page for the current mailing address before submitting.

Do I need to register my warranty?

No. Your warranty is activated automatically at purchase. Your receipt is your proof of coverage — keep it. No registration form, no extra steps.

Care, Maintenance & Safety

How do I clean my mouthguard?

Rinse with cold water immediately after every use. Brush with a toothbrush and DC Foam Cleaner (or mild soap) — available in our hygiene products collection. Never use hot water or leave it in direct sunlight — heat warps the material. Store in a ventilated case when not in use, not loose in your gym bag. Keep it away from your dog. Replace every 6-12 months, or sooner if the fit loosens.

How often should I replace my mouthguard?

Every 6-12 months for active athletes. Kids and teens developing their jaw may need replacements more often. If your guard feels loose, is visibly worn, or doesn't seat properly, replace it — a loose mouthguard offers significantly less protection than a properly fitting one. The good news: DC keeps your impressions on file permanently, so reordering is instant.

Are DC mouthguards safe — no BPA or harmful chemicals?

Yes. Every DC mouthguard is BPA-free and latex-free. All materials have been tested for harmful chemicals and meet the highest safety standards available for oral contact products. Our boil-and-bite models are CE marked to EU safety directives.

Can a mouthguard prevent a concussion?

A mouthguard is not a concussion prevention device. What it does is absorb and distribute impact forces that travel through the jaw to the skull, which may reduce the severity of some impacts. More importantly, it protects your teeth, jaw, and lips from direct trauma. For serious athletes, a properly fitted mouthguard is essential — it's just not a substitute for proper headgear and technique.

Still have questions?

Talk to our team.

Real humans, quick answers. We'll help you pick the right guard, troubleshoot a fit, or answer anything else.

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