There are three types of mouth guards: 1. Stock mouth protectors - These come ready to wear. These are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores. However, you cannot adjust their fit, they tend to be bulky and sometimes make breathing and talking difficult. Additionally, these types of mouth guards provide minimal protection. 2. Boil and bite mouth protectors - These can also be bought at most sporting goods stores and offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. This type of mouth guard is placed in hot water to soften and then placed in the mouth to shape around the teeth. 3. Custom-fitted mouth guards - These are designed individually and made in the dental office based on your dentist’s instructions. Your dentist will first make an impression of your teeth and then mold the mouth guard over the model. This type of mouth guard provides the most protection and comfort.