Whether you play competitive sports or weekend social games, protecting your teeth should always be a priority. Many dental injuries can be sustained when playing contact sports. It is important you wear a custom fit mouthguard to prevent serious dental trauma. Custom fit mouthguards made by dental professionals are much safer and more affective than store bought ones.
The Risk of Dental Injuries in Sport
Sports such as rugby, football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts involve physical contact, fast movements, and accidental collisions. Without proper protection, these impacts can cause:
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Broken or chipped teeth
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Knocked-out teeth
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Cuts to the lips, tongue, or cheeks
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Jaw injuries
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Damage to dental restorations such as crowns or veneers
What Is a Custom Sports Mouthguard?
A dentist-made sports mouthguard is a protective device designed specifically for your mouth. It is custom-fitted using dental impressions of the patients teeth.
Unlike store-bought options, custom mouthguards are designed to provide maximum protection while allowing you to breathe and speak normally during sports.
Why Choose a Dentist-Made Mouthguard?
Custom fit mouthguards ensure the device sits in place securely – not falling off the teeth during play. The dental team make the mouthguard from your dental impression ensuring a very snug and comfortable fit. Store bought mouthguards can be ill fitting, they can become loose or fall out during sports. As a result, more significant dental injury can occur.
Poorly fitted mouthguards can make breathing and communication difficult during games. Custom mouthguards are designed with proper thickness and contouring so athletes can breathe and talk with ease.
Dental mouthguards are made with durable materials. Unlike store bought mouthguards, they remain firm, keep their shape and fit making it a worthwhile investment for athletes.
There is a large variety of colours and patterns to choose from and we can put your details onto the mouthguard also.
Can I Wear a Mouthguard if I Have Braces?
The simple answer is yes! For athletes with braces and even crowns, bridges, or implants, a custom mouthguard provides an additional layer of protection for both teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Who Should Wear a Sports Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are always recommended for adults and children playing any contact sports or sports with risk on falls or contact with other players.
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Rugby
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AFL or football
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Basketball
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Hockey
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Boxing and martial arts
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Skateboarding or BMX
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Netball
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Soccer
Even sports that seem low-contact can still result in accidental collisions.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
To keep your mouthguard in good condition:
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Rinse it with cool water after each use
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Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap (nothing too abrasive)
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Store it in a ventilated protective case – provided with your mouthguard
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Keep it away from heat to prevent warping
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Bring it to dental check-ups so your dentist can check its fit and condition
Protect Your Smile
Dental injuries can happen in seconds but may affect your smile for a lifetime. Wearing a dentist-made sports mouthguard is a simple step that significantly reduces the risk of serious damage.
If you or your child participates in sports, speak with your dentist about getting a custom mouthguard. It’s one of the best investments you can make to protect a healthy smile on and off the field.