While there are many types of mouthguard available in Australia, ranging from cheap, over-the-counter models to professionally custom-fitted mouthguards, there is a strong emphasis from Dental Professionals to use custom made mouthguards. Read on to find out why.
While they are cheap and easy to replace, Boil and Bite, or Over-the Counter mouthguards do not provide adequate protection against injuries to your teeth, mouth or jaw. The Australian Dental Association recommends that players of contact sports and pastimes use professional custom made mouthguards for optimum protection. Dental injuries can be expensive, so it is worthwhile investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard.
Custom-fitted mouthguards
Your custom mouthguard is made just for you, designed for your mouth, your sport and your needs. Custom-fitting allows your practitioner to accurately assess your mouth and provide you with the right protection for your mouth and your level of protection.
Custom-fitted mouthguards provide a superior fit, as they are made to suit your individual contours and needs. A custom-fitted mouthguard is:
• Comfortable
• Well-fitting
• Allows you to speak clearly
• Won’t shift or fall out
• Won’t restrict your breathing
Over-the-counter (boil and bite )mouthguards
Over-the-counter mouthguards are far less effective than those that are custom-fitted. Whether you are buying a stock mouthguard or one that you can boil and bite into to take the shape of your teeth, the shape, fit, contour and level of protection is substantially reduced in these forms of mouthguard.
How long will my custom mouthguard last?
It’s recommended that you get a new mouthguard annually, especially so if you are still growing. Most Health Funds will cover 2 mouthguards annually and will cover most if not all, of the cost.
If your mouthguard still feels as though it fits, it’s important that you have your mouthguard re-assessed each year before commencing contact sport to ensure it still fits correctly for maximum protection.
How do I care for my mouthguard?
• Rinse in cold water after use
• Store in a rigid plastic container
• Keep out of direct sunlight – mouthguards will change shape in high temperatures
• Occasionally rinse your mouthguard in a mouthwash, rinse it out after each use.
• Replace your mouthguard if it gets damaged
Want to learn more or book a consultation? Visit our Contact Us page and complete our enquiry form or call us on 02 9389 3656, we’ll be happy to help answer your questions.
