Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most important piece of your sporting equipment.
Protecting your teeth during sport
Tooth fractures, tooth loss, and injuries to the lips, cheeks, or tongue can result from a facial blow during contact sports, sometimes with long-term effects on the teeth and surrounding tissue. Impacts to an unprotected jaw can also cause concussion or other traumatic brain injuries.
Most dental-related sporting injuries can be prevented with a custom-fit mouthguard, personalised to fit the athlete’s teeth and gums for maximum comfort and protection. The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends a custom-fitted mouthguard for all Australians participating in contact sports or activities with a high risk of collision.
Why choose a custom dual-laminated mouthguard?
Over-the-counter mouthguards are often ill-fitting, provide poor protection, and can dislodge during play. In rare cases, they may even wedge in the back of the throat on impact, which could be life-threatening. Custom dual-laminated mouthguards are safer, more comfortable, and offer superior protection for teeth and jaws.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a new mouthguard?
For optimal fit and protection, mouthguards should be checked or remade at least every 12 months. This is especially important for children and teenagers with growing jaws. Make sure you bring your mouthguard to your six-monthly dental appointments so fit and wear can be checked.
Which sports require a mouthguard?
The following list is far from comprehensive but covers the sports for which mouthguards are most commonly recommended.
- football (all codes)
- basketball
- netball
- hockey
- martial arts (all)
- BMX and Motocross (along with your helmet)
- cricket (wicket keeping, slips field positions and batting)
- beach volleyball
- baseball
- softball
- white-water kayaking and rafting
- some gymnastics.
When should I wear my mouthguard?
You should wear a mouthguard when playing and training for any sport where there is a possibility of contact with the face.
How is a custom mouthguard created?
At your dental examination, your dentist will first check whether you require any dental work that may affect the fit of your mouthguard. (A mouthguard can still be fitted if you have braces or if you wear a partial denture.)
Physical or digital impressions of both upper and lower teeth will be taken. A dual laminated mouthguard will then be fabricated for both your comfort and protection. You can even pick the colours!
This process will provide you with the best fitting guard made specifically to suit your individual teeth and gums.
Creation of your mouthguard usually takes around two weeks, after which your dentist will see you for a brief second appointment to ensure correct fit. Keep your mouthguard clean and store it in a firm container, away from heat, to ensure that it maintains its shape.
What are the advantages of custom mouthguards?
Custom-fitted dual-laminated mouthguards:
- provide the very best protection for the teeth and jaws in case of impact
- absorb shock, stabilise the head and neck and limit movement caused by a direct hit to the jaw
- offer a superior, comfortable fit, reducing the likelihood of removal during play
- don’t restrict breathing or the ability to talk
- can be created to match your team colours.
Contact Us
Contact Us
"*" indicates required fields