Protecting your teeth so you can go out and play…
Use custom-fitted mouth guards when you play sport
A mouth guard, custom-fitted by your dentist, can help significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries. Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries.
Is it right for you?
Custom-fitted mouthguards are especially designed by the dentist to fit the individual’s mouth. They provide the best protection due to their close fit, comfort and cushioning (shock absorption) effect.
What’s involved?
A custom-fitted mouthguard is made by a dentist using an impression taken of your teeth and a plaster model. Custom fitting allows the dentist to accurately assess your mouth and provide the best fit, size coverage and thickness in a mouthguard especially for you. The dentist can also make an assessment of any risk factors you might have and recommend the best type of mouthguard appropriate for your sport.
Why are custom-fitted mouth guards important?
Dentists can make custom-fitted mouth guards that offer far more protection and comfort than standard varieties. Given standard mouthguards don’t fit as accurately as custom-made mouth guards, they are often uncomfortable and can interfere with an individual’s breathing and speaking ability.
How do you correctly care for your mouthguard?
Recommendations include:
- Rinse the mouthguard in soap and warm (not hot) water after each use. Allowing it to air-dry.
- Disinfect the mouthguard from time to time with a mouthwash.
- Keep the mouthguard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. The box should have several holes in it.
- Do not leave the mouthguard in direct sunlight, in a closed car or in the car’s glove box. Heat can damage it.
- Ask your dentist to inspect your mouthguard at every dental check-up.
- Replace the mouthguard if it is damaged.
- Replace a child’s mouthguard every 12 to 18 months, even if it appears to be in good condition. Growth and new teeth can alter the fit.
- Replace an adult’s mouthguard after dental treatment or tooth loss. Otherwise it should last for many years.
What are general safety tips for mouth guards?
You will be guided by your dentist but general suggestions include:
- Ensure you wear the mouthguard at all times during games and training sessions.
- Players undergoing dental treatment can have a custom-fitted mouthguard made by their dentist to fit comfortably and accurately over their braces.
- See your dentist if the mouthguard starts to feel uncomfortable or doesn’t fit well.
Mouth guard FAQs…
How long will a mouthguard last?
Your dentist should review your mouthguard every 12 months to ensure it is fitting correctly. Sometimes, a mouthguard needs to be replaced if major changes occur to the teeth, like restorations or adult teeth coming through.
How do I clean my mouthguard?
Mouthguards need to be rinsed in cold water after use, dried and stored in a plastic container. They should be stored in a cool place avoiding high temperatures.
DENTAL CARE NETWORK™ is an Australian network of dentists and dental pratices offering quality, professional dental services such as teeth whitening, CEREC, TMJ Symptoms Treatment, wisdom teeth removal and porcelain veneers. Our network features Sydney dentists, Melbourne dentists and dental practices in many locations around Australia.
