Mouthguards for Sport: What Active Brisbane Families Should Know
Understanding the Importance of Sports Mouthguards
As a dentist Coorparoo practice, Brisbane Laser Dentist sees firsthand the consequences of sporting injuries to teeth and jaws. Brisbane families are incredibly active, with children and adults participating in everything from rugby and AFL to netball and basketball. Whilst we encourage this healthy lifestyle, protecting your teeth during physical activity is absolutely essential.
Dental injuries from sport can range from chipped teeth to complete tooth loss, fractured jaws, and soft tissue damage. These injuries are not only painful but can require extensive dental treatment and potentially affect a person’s oral health for years to come. The good news is that a properly fitted mouthguard can prevent the vast majority of these injuries, making it one of the most important pieces of sporting equipment your family will own.
Types of Mouthguards Available
When it comes to choosing a mouthguard, Brisbane families have several options to consider. Understanding the differences between these types will help you make an informed decision about protection for your loved ones.
Stock Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear straight from the packet. Whilst they’re the most affordable option and readily available at sporting goods shops, they offer the least protection and comfort. These mouthguards often don’t fit properly, can make breathing and speaking difficult, and may fall out during activity. We generally don’t recommend stock mouthguards for serious sporting activities.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These mouthguards are made from thermoplastic material that softens when placed in hot water. The wearer then bites into the softened material to create a custom impression. Whilst they offer better fit and protection than stock mouthguards, the fit can be inconsistent, and they may not provide adequate protection for high-impact sports.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
Custom-made mouthguards are created specifically for an individual’s mouth using precise impressions taken by dental professionals. These mouthguards offer superior fit, comfort, and protection compared to over-the-counter options. They stay securely in place during activity, allow for easy breathing and speaking, and provide comprehensive protection for teeth, gums, and jaw.
Which Sports Require Mouthguards?
Many Brisbane families are surprised to learn just how many sports benefit from mouthguard protection. Whilst some sports have mandatory mouthguard requirements, our dentist Coorparoo recommends considering protection for any activity with potential for facial contact or falls.
High-contact sports such as rugby league, rugby union, AFL, boxing, and martial arts obviously require mouthguards. However, medium-contact sports like basketball, netball, soccer, and hockey also present significant risk of dental injury. Even activities like skateboarding, BMX riding, and gymnastics can result in facial trauma that a mouthguard could prevent.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
Proper maintenance of a mouthguard ensures it remains hygienic and continues to provide adequate protection. After each use, rinse the mouthguard with cold water and brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Store it in a rigid, ventilated container to allow air circulation and prevent bacterial growth.
Avoid exposing mouthguards to high temperatures, as heat can distort the material and compromise the fit. Never leave a mouthguard in direct sunlight, hot cars, or hot water when not in use. Regular inspection is important—check for tears, holes, or signs of wear, and replace the mouthguard if it becomes damaged or loose-fitting.
When to Replace a Mouthguard
Mouthguards don’t last forever, and knowing when to replace them is crucial for maintaining proper protection. For children and adolescents, growth and dental changes mean mouthguards typically need replacing every season or every six months. Adults may find their mouthguards last longer, but annual replacement is generally advisable.
Any mouthguard that shows signs of wear, damage, or no longer fits properly should be replaced immediately. As your trusted dentist Coorparoo team, we can assess your mouthguard’s condition during regular check-ups and advise whether replacement is necessary.
Protecting Your Family’s Smiles
At our practice, we’re passionate about preventive care and helping Brisbane families maintain healthy smiles. Investing in proper mouthguard protection is a simple yet vital step in safeguarding your family’s dental health during sporting activities. We’re here to discuss your specific needs and ensure every family member has appropriate protection for their chosen sport.