Whether you’re playing contact sport or protecting your teeth from grinding, a properly fitted mouthguard can provide an important layer of protection for your teeth and jaw.
Sport is a big part of life for many Australian children and adults, and while dental injuries can’t always be prevented, wearing a well-fitted mouthguard can help reduce the severity of injuries involving the teeth and mouth.
At Wise Dental, custom mouthguards are individually made to fit the shape and position of your teeth, providing a more secure and comfortable fit than generic alternatives.
A mouthguard creates a protective barrier around the teeth and can help absorb and distribute forces that would otherwise be transferred directly to the teeth and surrounding structures.
They are particularly useful for people participating in contact or high-impact activities where there is a risk of being struck in the face or mouth.
Mouthguards may also be recommended for people who grind or clench their teeth, a condition known as bruxism.
Your dentist can assess your teeth and determine which type of dental appliance is appropriate for your individual needs.
There are several mouthguard options available, ranging from inexpensive ready-made products to professionally fitted dental mouthguards.
Stock mouthguards are pre-made in standard shapes and sizes, while boil-and-bite products are softened in hot water before being moulded around the teeth at home.
These options are readily available and generally less expensive than a professionally made mouthguard.
However, because they aren’t individually manufactured to match your teeth, the fit may be less precise. They can also feel bulky or uncomfortable, particularly when worn for extended periods.
A custom mouthguard is individually designed using the shape and alignment of your own teeth.
Because the appliance is made specifically for your mouth, it can provide a more secure and comfortable fit while offering protection suited to your teeth and bite.
Custom dental appliances may be recommended for:
Your dentist can recommend the appropriate type of mouthguard depending on why you need it.
A collision, fall, ball or accidental impact during sport can cause significant dental injuries.
Depending on the force involved, injuries can include chipped or fractured teeth, damage to the lips and gums or teeth being loosened or knocked out.
A custom sports mouthguard is designed to fit securely around your teeth while you participate in physical activity.
A close fit can also make the mouthguard more comfortable to wear compared with a loose or bulky generic appliance.
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth and can occur during sleep without the person being aware of it.
Repeated grinding can place considerable pressure on the teeth and jaw muscles. Over time, this may contribute to tooth wear as well as discomfort around the jaw and face.
A professionally fitted dental appliance can provide a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, helping reduce direct tooth-on-tooth contact.
For people experiencing symptoms associated with grinding, your dentist can examine your teeth for signs of wear and determine whether a protective appliance may be appropriate.
Depending on why the appliance is being used, a custom mouthguard can provide several advantages:
Because everyone’s teeth and bite are different, having the appliance professionally fitted can provide a more precise fit than a generic mouthguard.
Cleaning and storing your mouthguard correctly can help keep it hygienic and maintain its condition.
After use, gently clean the mouthguard using a soft toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste.
Rinse it thoroughly under cool water before placing it in a ventilated storage container. Allowing air to circulate around the mouthguard helps it dry properly between uses.
Avoid exposing your mouthguard to unnecessary heat, as this may affect its shape and fit.
It’s also a good idea to bring your mouthguard with you to routine dental appointments so your dentist can check its condition and fit.
A custom mouthguard may cost approximately $200–$300, although the final price can vary depending on the material and colour selected.
Your dental team can confirm the current cost and available options before your mouthguard is made.
There isn’t one replacement schedule that applies to everyone.
How long your mouthguard lasts depends on factors such as the quality of the appliance, how frequently it’s worn and the amount of pressure or impact it receives.
You should have your mouthguard checked if:
Children and teenagers may require replacement more frequently as their teeth and jaws continue to develop.
Oral appliances are also sometimes used in relation to snoring and sleep apnoea.
Certain specially designed oral appliances can be used as part of the management of some sleep-related breathing disorders. However, these aren’t the same as an ordinary sports mouthguard or standard appliance used for teeth grinding.
If snoring or sleep apnoea is a concern, appropriate assessment is important before deciding whether an oral appliance is suitable. Learn more about snoring and sleep apnoea treatment.
Whether you need additional protection while playing sport or you’re concerned about grinding your teeth, Wise Dental can assess your teeth and recommend an appropriate custom dental appliance.
A professionally made mouthguard is individually fitted to your teeth, helping provide a secure and comfortable fit while protecting your smile.
Our Sutherland Shire dental team can also check existing mouthguards for wear, damage or changes in fit.
Book an appointment with Wise Dental in Sutherland Shire to discuss a custom-fitted mouthguard for sport or teeth grinding.
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