Do you or your kids play contact sports? Well, I’m here to tell you that a sports mouth guard isn’t just for sitting at the bottom of your gym bag! The Australian Dental Association recommends wearing a mouthguard when there is any risk of injury or impact to the face or teeth, and that includes wearing it during training.
Wearing a sports mouth guard will protect your teeth and gums from trauma that can lead to lip lacerations, tooth loss or fractures, a dead tooth, a discoloured tooth, etc. They also prevent cracks and chips on your teeth from clenching throughout the game.
Types of Sports Mouth Guards
Patients often ask what is the difference between a “boil and bite” mouth guard and a custom-made mouth guard?
“Boil and bite” Mouth Guards
This type of sports mouth guard is what you will often find in the shops. You put it in hot water to make it malleable and then mould it onto your teeth yourself. This type is generally cheaper; however, it will not fit as well or last as long as a custom-made mouthguard. They offer less protection, even though they are quite bulky and often more uncomfortable to wear. They can be a good option in certain situations, for example, if your child is trying out a new sport and you aren’t sure if they are going to commit to playing long term, or if they are learning to skateboard and you just want that extra level of protection in case of falls, but just aren’t as effective as custom-made mouthguards, especially in the long-term.
A Custom-Made Mouthguard
is the recommended option here at Dentistry on Coolum. They have the right amount of cushion for shock absorption which means better protection for your teeth and oral tissues. They are specifically designed to fit in your mouth so will be much more comfortable to wear than an over-the-counter mouthguard, letting you keep your focus on the game!
It’s quick and easy to get a custom mouthguard made. Come in for an exam, we will take an impression/scan of your teeth and then send it to the lab to be made – that’s it! You can even choose the colour(s)/design to personalise your mouthguard.
Tip: Clear mouthguards can get lost easily and can be harder to find if lost on the field. I always recommend that children choose a colour!
Home Care For Your Sports Mouth Guard
It’s important to care for your mouthguard. Always rinse it with soapy water after use and leave it to air-dry before storing in the case.
When to Replace Your Custom Made Mouth Guard?
For adults, the custom made mouthguard will often last a few years unless it is damaged and/or major dental work is done. Your child’s mouthguard will need to be replaced more often while they grow and their dentition changes from baby teeth to adult teeth.
Give us a call on 07 5446 1616 to book in to have your sports mouthguard made.
Are you still unsure if you need a custom made mouthguard? Feel free to have a chat with us about it at your next dental check-up.
