This protector is custom made to fit the exact structure of the athlete's mouth. This is also the best and most expensive type of mouth protection. Mouthguards also have some inherent problems. Some of the problems with mouth protectors include discomfort, followed by speech impediment, respiratory difficulties, and sanitation. Some athletes say that they are uncomfortable, but momentary discomfort can not compare to permanent damage.
Several injuries occur without the use of a mouthguard.
Avulsion is defined as the loss of a tooth through frontal impact. This may lead to subsequent damage to both the pulp and peridontal ligament. Under these conditions even a slight impact may result in total dislocation of the tooth. Root fractures, defined as fractures involving dentin, cementum and pulp, are really uncommon amoung dental traumas. Root fractures are a result of impalement.