From high-contact activities like boxing and rugby to sports such as basketball and soccer, mouthguards are a vital piece of safety equipment often overlooked until disaster strikes. They shield teeth from direct impacts, distribute forces to reduce the risk of concussions, and help prevent cuts to the soft tissues of the mouth. For athletes in sports like motocross or wrestling, where unexpected collisions are common, a well-fitted mouthguard can mean the difference between a close call and a career-ending injury.
TruFit Customs, founded by Matthew Hall and Victor Adamo, aims to make custom-fit mouthguards more accessible and affordable for athletes of all levels. The company uses modern manufacturing techniques to produce dental-grade mouthguards that are approved by dentists and orthodontists.
What sets TruFit apart from traditional mouthguard providers is their use of additive manufacturing technology. The company employs industrial DLP 3D printers to create custom-fit products based on impressions taken by customers at home. This approach allows TruFit to offer personalized mouthguards at a fraction of the cost typically associated with custom dental products.
The process begins when customers receive an impression kit at home. They take an impression of their teeth and mail it back to TruFit. The company then scans the impression using a high-precision 405-nanometer light-based scanner to capture intricate details. Skilled CAD professionals optimize the digital model before sending it to print. The final product is created using photopolymerization, resulting in a mouthguard that precisely fits the user’s teeth.
TruFit’s approach offers several advantages. The custom fit improves comfort, which encourages consistent use – a crucial factor in protective equipment effectiveness. Their mouthguards allow for better breathing and speech compared to traditional options, potentially enhancing athletic performance. Additionally, TruFit mouthguards incorporate compression pads to help absorb shock from impacts.
The company has gained traction in professional sports, supplying mouthguards to multiple NFL teams, including the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks. They’ve also partnered with organizations like the Premier Lacrosse League and USA Hockey. As of 2024, TruFit reports working with half of all NFL teams in some capacity.
TruFit’s business model extends beyond direct-to-consumer sales. The company also works with dental and orthodontic practices through a division called TriFigure, providing similar products for professional distribution.
Looking ahead, TruFit is expanding its product line. The company is in the late stages of developing carbon fiber insoles, using a similar digital scanning and custom manufacturing process. This expansion suggests TruFit is aiming to become a broader provider of customized sports equipment beyond oral protection.
