As the sporting season kicks off, many children, teenagers and adults are returning to the field, court or rink. While most players remember their boots, helmets or shin guards, one piece of protective equipment is often overlooked: The mouthguard.
Mouthguards play a crucial role in protecting the teeth, gums and jaw during sport. Whether you’re playing contact sports like football and hockey, or activities with a risk of falls such as basketball, skateboarding or netball, wearing a mouthguard significantly reduces the risk of dental injuries.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Dental injuries are one of the most common sports related injuries. A sudden collision, fall, or impact from a ball or elbow can easily result in chipped, broken, or even knocked out teeth.
A properly fitted mouthguard acts as a cushion that absorbs and distributes the force of an impact. This helps to protect:
- Teeth from fractures or being knocked out
- Lips, cheeks and tongue from cuts
- The jaw from injury
- Dental work such as crowns, veneers or braces
Preventing a dental injury is always far easier and less costly than treating one.
Types of Mouthguards
There are three main types of mouthguards available:
- Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-formed mouthguards available at many sporting or retail stores. They come ready to wear but offer very limited adjustment and often fit poorly. - Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These mouthguards are softened in hot water and then shaped around the teeth by biting into them. While they offer a slightly better fit than stock guards, they can still be bulky, uncomfortable and may not provide optimal protection. - Custom Dentist-Made Mouthguards
These are professionally made by a dentist using an exact impression or scan of your teeth. The result is a mouthguard designed specifically for your mouth.
Why Dentist-Made Mouthguards Are Recommended
While store bought options may seem convenient, dentist made mouthguards provide several important advantages.
Superior Fit
A custom mouthguard is designed to match the exact shape of your teeth and bite. This means it stays securely in place during play without needing to be constantly adjusted.
Better Protection
Because the mouthguard fits properly and is made from high quality materials, it provides more reliable shock absorption during impacts.
Greater Comfort
Custom mouthguards are typically thinner and more comfortable than store bought versions. This makes it easier to breathe and speak while wearing them, increasing the likelihood that athletes will actually keep them in during games.
Durability
Dentist-made mouthguards are made from stronger materials and tend to last longer than DIY versions.
Designed for Individual Needs
For athletes with braces, dental appliances, or specific bite considerations, a custom mouthguard can be designed to provide the appropriate protection.
An Investment in Prevention
A custom mouthguard is a small investment compared to the cost and inconvenience of treating a dental injury. Repairs to broken teeth, emergency dental visits, or replacing knocked out teeth can be complex and expensive.
By wearing a well fitted mouthguard every time you play, you significantly reduce the risk of serious dental trauma.
Ready for the Season?
If you or your child are preparing for the upcoming sporting season, now is the perfect time to ensure you have the right protection. A custom mouthguard can help keep smiles safe while allowing athletes to focus on enjoying the game.
If you’d like to learn more about custom mouthguards or organise a fitting, contact our practice today.
