Custom vs. Boil-and-Bite Lacrosse Mouthguards: Which Is Better?

Author: Dr. Monroe Elkin, BS PHARM., DMD
Published: May 12, 2025

When it comes to protecting your teeth on the lacrosse field, not all mouthguards are created equal. If you’ve been trying to decide between a custom-fit mouthguard and a traditional boil-and-bite option, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each type, so you can make the best choice for your game.
Why Your Mouthguard Choice Matters
The right mouthguard can mean the difference between a minor collision and a major dental injury. It’s one of the most important pieces of protective gear you’ll wear on the field. Here’s why the type of mouthguard you choose matters:
Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard
1. Superior Fit and Comfort
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Custom mouthguards are designed to fit the exact shape of your teeth, reducing irritation and improving comfort.
2. Better Protection
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They provide more precise coverage and can absorb impact more effectively than generic guards.
3. Easier Breathing and Speaking
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With a tighter, more secure fit, custom mouthguards don’t slip around, making it easier to communicate on the field.
4. Easier Breathing and Speaking
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Many custom mouthguards can be molded to fit over braces, reducing the risk of painful cuts.
Benefits of a traditional Boil-and-Bite Mouthguard
1. Lower Cost
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These are generally more affordable than custom guards, making them a popular choice for youth players and beginners.
2. Convenience
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Available at most sporting goods stores and ready to mold at home with a pot of boiling water.
3. Quick and Easy Fit
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Just boil, bite, and you’re ready to play — no special equipment needed
Goon Guard Lacrosse Mouthguard
2-Pack with Free Case
Goon Guard Custom vs. Traditional Boild-and-Bite
When choosing a youth mouthguard for lacrosse, protection should be your first priority. Here’s what to look for:
What Makes Goon Guard the Best Lacrosse Mouthguard?
According to sports safety experts, the best lacrosse mouthguard is one that offers a custom, secure fit and allows players to breathe, speak, and drink easily during intense gameplay.
Why Goon Guard Stands Out:
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Custom Microwave Fit: Form your Goon Guard mouthguard at home for a perfect, snug fit in minutes.
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Braces-Friendly Design: Comfortable, non-irritating fit over metal brackets.
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2x Impact Absorption: Scientifically tested to reduce impact by 2x vs traditional mouthguards.
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Multiple Colors and Personalization: Match your team colors or print your number and name for a personal touch.
Athletic Experts Trust Goon Guard

Richard Mariani
President of South Florida Orthodontics
For years I have struggled with poorly fitting mouthguards for patients wearing braces. This new guard fits more like a custom-made guard made off of an impression.

Dr. Tom Lenz
Dentist
With a product like this I don’t know if I will ever see a reason to go through the time consuming and expensive process of custom fabricating mouthguards on study models for amateur athletes in my office ever again.

Shannon Peel, MA ATC
Associate Director for Athletic Training, Iowa State University
We have formed 103 mouthguards thus far for our football players. All have gone well and players like them. I will encourage all our other sports to use it.

Phil Hossler, ATC
National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Hall of Fame
For anyone who has gone through their share of the ‘boil and bite’ mouthguards, here’s one brand that is affordable, quick and easy to fit, that allows you to speak clearly and drink fluids without any difficulty.

Gaudhi De Sedas
Rutgers University Football
I think this is a great product given that it does absolutely everything you ask it to do, and it does not obstruct one at all, keeping one’s mind in the game not the equipment.
Shop the Best Lacrosse Mouthguards Now
Protect your game, your smile, and your future with Goon Guard. Check out our lacrosse mouthguards and take the field with confidence.
Where Can I Get a Goon Guard Lacrosse Mouthguard?
You can order your Goon Guard lacrosse mouthguard directly from our site. Choose from multiple colors, sizes, styles, and protect your teeth without sacrificing comfort.
Rep Your Team or Your Favorite Color
When your mouthguard goes in, you’re ready to protect your game. Choose a mouthguard that lets you play hard, talk clearly, and breathe easily.
About the Author

About Dr. Monroe Elkin
Dr. Monroe Elkin is a renowned dentist and co-inventor of advanced sports mouthguard technology. With a passion for athlete safety and decades of experience in sports dentistry, Dr. Elkin has been at the forefront of mouthguard innovation, co-developing cutting-edge materials that offer superior protection and comfort. His work in collaboration with top chemical engineers has helped create some of the most protective mouthguards on the market today, trusted by athletes from youth leagues to the pros.