Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries, yet they're also the most preventable. A properly fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from serious harm during physical activities.
The Risk of Dental Injuries in Sports
Each year, thousands of Australians suffer dental injuries while playing sports. These injuries range from minor chips to complete tooth loss and jaw fractures. The Australian Dental Association estimates that up to one-third of all dental injuries are sports-related.
Sports with the highest risk of dental injury include:
- Contact sports: Rugby, AFL, hockey, boxing, martial arts
- Ball sports: Cricket, basketball, netball, baseball
- Adventure sports: Mountain biking, skateboarding, skiing
- Individual sports: Gymnastics, horse riding, weightlifting
Types of Mouthguards
1. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards (Recommended)
Made by your dentist from a mould of your teeth, custom mouthguards offer the best protection, comfort, and fit. They stay securely in place during activity and don't interfere with breathing or speaking.
Benefits of custom mouthguards:
- Precise fit for maximum protection
- Comfortable enough to wear throughout games and practice
- Don't fall out or require constant adjustment
- Allow normal breathing and speech
- More durable than store-bought options
- Can be made for athletes with braces
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Available at pharmacies and sports stores, these mouthguards are softened in boiling water, then moulded to teeth by biting down. While more protective than stock guards, they're thicker, less comfortable, and often don't fit well.
3. Stock Mouthguards
Pre-formed and ready to wear, these are the least expensive but also the least protective option. They come in limited sizes, fit poorly, and often interfere with breathing and speaking. Not recommended for contact sports.
What Mouthguards Protect Against
A quality mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, distributing the force of an impact to reduce the risk of:
- Broken or chipped teeth: The most common dental sports injury
- Knocked-out teeth: A properly fitted guard can prevent avulsion
- Soft tissue injuries: Cuts to lips, tongue, and cheeks
- Jaw injuries: Including fractures and TMJ damage
- Concussions: Some research suggests mouthguards may reduce concussion risk
- Root damage: Even if a tooth doesn't break, roots can be damaged by impact
Mouthguards for Children
Children are especially vulnerable to dental injuries because their motor skills are still developing. Custom mouthguards are particularly important for young athletes and can be remade as their mouths grow and permanent teeth emerge.
The Australian Dental Association recommends mouthguards for all children participating in contact sports, as well as activities with a risk of falls or flying objects.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
- Rinse with cold water or mouthwash before and after use
- Clean regularly with mild soap and a toothbrush
- Store in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth
- Keep away from heat and direct sunlight, which can warp the material
- Check regularly for wear, tears, or loose fit
- Replace when worn or damaged, or if fit changes
- Bring your mouthguard to dental check-ups for inspection
Mouthguards and Braces
If you or your child wears braces, a mouthguard is even more important. A blow to the face can damage brackets and wires, and braces can cut lips and cheeks on impact. Custom mouthguards can be designed to accommodate braces and protect both teeth and orthodontic appliances.
The Cost of Not Wearing a Mouthguard
The cost of treating a dental injury far exceeds the cost of a custom mouthguard:
- A chipped tooth may require bonding or a crown ($200-$1,500)
- A knocked-out tooth may need reimplantation, root canal, and crown ($2,000-$5,000)
- If the tooth can't be saved, a dental implant costs $3,000-$6,000
- Jaw injuries may require surgery and extended treatment
- Lifetime dental care for a single injury can exceed $20,000
Get Your Custom Mouthguard at Mullaloo Beach Dental
At Mullaloo Beach Dental, we create custom mouthguards that fit perfectly and provide maximum protection. The process is simple: we take an impression of your teeth, and your guard is ready within a week.
We offer mouthguards in a variety of colours, including team colours for young athletes. Whether you play recreational or competitive sports, we can create the perfect guard for your needs.
Don't risk your smile—contact us today to schedule your mouthguard fitting.
