In Australia, sport is a way of life. From rugby to AFL, cricket to skateboarding, Australians are always on the move. But with all this action comes an increased risk of dental injuries, many of which can be painful, expensive, and long-lasting. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a professional athlete, or the parent of a sporty child, protecting your teeth should be a top priority. This is where mouthguards come in. Mouthguards aren't just for elite athletes—they are essential protective gear for anyone participating in activities where there's a risk of impact to the face. This article explores why mouthguards are vital for dental protection, how they work, and what to consider when choosing the right one for you or your family.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible, custom-fitted device that covers the teeth and gums to cushion the blow from external forces. Typically made from rubber or a similar soft plastic, mouthguards act as a shock absorber, distributing the force of impact and minimising the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage.
There are three main types of mouthguards:
- Stock Mouthguards – Pre-formed and ready to wear, but often ill-fitting and uncomfortable.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – Softened in hot water and then moulded to your teeth at home. These offer a better fit than stock versions but still lack precision.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – Made by a dentist to perfectly fit the individual's mouth. These offer the best protection, comfort, and durability.
Why Are Mouthguards Important?
1. Prevent Dental Injuries
The primary function of a mouthguard is to prevent dental injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, root damage, and knocked-out teeth. Sports like rugby, hockey, boxing, and even cycling have a high risk of facial impacts. A single blow to the mouth can result in thousands of dollars in dental repairs—not to mention the pain and inconvenience of repeated dental visits.
2. Protect Against Soft Tissue Damage
Aside from protecting teeth, mouthguards also shield the cheeks, lips, and tongue from cuts and bruises. During high-contact sports, it's not uncommon for athletes to accidentally bite their tongue or the inside of their cheek. A mouthguard provides a barrier that helps avoid these often overlooked but painful injuries.
3. Reduce the Risk of Jaw Fractures and Concussions
While mouthguards primarily focus on dental protection, they also play a role in reducing the severity of jaw fractures and concussions. By absorbing and dispersing the force of an impact, a mouthguard can limit the trauma transferred to the jaw and brain. Though not a guaranteed prevention method, they certainly help reduce the risk.
4. Ideal for People with Braces or Dental Work
For those with braces, crowns, bridges, or implants, a mouthguard is even more critical. Braces can cause significant soft tissue damage during an impact, and dental appliances can be dislodged or damaged. A custom mouthguard helps protect both the appliance and the soft tissues in the mouth.
The Role of an Emergency Dentist
Unfortunately, not everyone wears a mouthguard when they should—and accidents do happen. When dental injuries occur, time is of the essence. Searching for an emergency dentist near me can make all the difference in saving a tooth or reducing long-term damage.
Emergency dentists are trained to handle urgent dental problems, including knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, broken dental appliances, and trauma from sports injuries. Having a custom mouthguard might prevent the need to ever make that call, but if an injury occurs, prompt care is crucial.
Mouthguards for Kids and Teens
Children and teenagers are especially prone to dental injuries due to their active lifestyles and developing mouths. If your child plays sport—even non-contact sport—it's worth discussing a mouthguard with your family dentist. Many schools and sporting organisations in Australia now require mouthguards as part of the standard uniform.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are ideal for kids because they stay securely in place, don't interfere with breathing or speech, and provide optimal protection as their teeth and jaws grow.
How to Care for Your Mouthguard
To ensure your mouthguard stays effective and hygienic:
- Rinse it with cold water after use
- Store it in a ventilated container
- Keep it away from heat sources (which can distort its shape)
- Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste or antibacterial rinse
- Replace it every season or if it shows signs of wear
A visit to your dentist can help assess whether your mouthguard still fits well, especially for growing children or people who've undergone dental work since their last fitting.
Summary
Mouthguards are a small investment that offer huge returns when it comes to dental protection. Whether you're training for a grand final or simply enjoying a social game on the weekend, a quality mouthguard can save you from the pain, cost, and hassle of dental injuries. Custom-fitted mouthguards, made by a dental professional, offer the best protection and comfort. Don't wait for an injury to happen—take proactive steps now to safeguard your smile. And if an accident does occur, knowing where to find an emergency dentist near me ensures you're ready to act quickly. Prevention is always better than cure—but being prepared for both is the smart choice.
Your Healthy Smile Dentists
154 Bennett Rd,
St Clair NSW 2759,
Australia
612 9670 6991
