A sports mouthguard is a protective dental appliance worn over your teeth during sporting activities. It acts as a cushioning barrier to help absorb and distribute the impact of blows to the face and mouth.Sports mouthguards are particularly important for activities involving physical contact, collisions, falls or the risk of being hit by a ball or sporting equipment.A custom-made mouthguard is created specifically for your teeth by taking an impression or digital scan of your mouth. This allows your dentist to provide a mouthguard designed for a secure fit, comfort and effective protection.

Dental injuries can happen unexpectedly during sport and may result in chipped, broken or knocked-out teeth, injuries to the lips and cheeks, or damage to other oral structures.Wearing a sports mouthguard helps reduce the risk and severity of many dental injuries. It is a simple preventative measure that can help protect your smile and potentially avoid unexpected dental treatment.

A sports mouthguard is recommended for many activities where there is a risk of contact or impact, including:Rugby league and rugby unionAustralian rules footballSoccerBasketball and netballHockeyMartial arts and boxingSkateboarding and other activities where falls or facial impacts may occurIf you or your child participates in sport, ask your dentist whether a mouthguard is recommended for that particular activity.

A custom-made mouthguard offers several advantages:Personalised fit: Made to suit the shape of your teeth and mouth.Improved comfort: Designed to fit securely without unnecessary bulk.Better retention: Less likely to move around during sporting activities.Protection for your teeth: Helps reduce the risk of chipped, broken or displaced teeth.Protection for soft tissues: Helps protect the lips, cheeks and gums from some impact-related injuries.Easier communication and breathing: A well-fitted mouthguard can make speaking and breathing more comfortable during sport.Suitable for growing smiles: Children and teenagers can have their mouthguards checked and replaced as their teeth and jaws develop.Custom-Made vs Store-Bought MouthguardsWhile store-bought mouthguards may offer some protection, they may not fit as securely or comfortably as a custom-made option.A custom-made sports mouthguard is designed specifically for your teeth and bite, providing a more personalised fit that is less likely to become loose or uncomfortable during activity.For athletes who participate regularly in contact sports, a professionally made mouthguard is an excellent option to consider.

The lifespan of a mouthguard depends on how often it is used, how well it is cared for and whether your teeth or bite change over time.Children and teenagers may need their mouthguards replaced more frequently as their permanent teeth come through and their mouths grow. Adults should also have their mouthguards checked regularly for signs of wear, damage or a poor fit.We recommend bringing your mouthguard to your dental check-up so we can assess whether it still fits correctly and provides appropriate coverage.

To keep your mouthguard clean and in good condition:Rinse it with cool water after each use.Clean it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap.Allow it to dry before storing it in a ventilated protective case.Keep it away from heat, which can distort its shape.Check it regularly for tears, cracks or signs of wear.Avoid sharing your mouthguard with others, and bring it to your dental appointments for regular assessment.