Mouthguards

Sports accidents can result in cuts, bruises and even broken bones.  These injuries usually heal with no long-term effects.  However, where a tooth is broken or lost the damage is permanent and dental treatment is the only remedy.

Wearing a mouthguard helps to protect the teeth from injury and can reduce the risk of damage to the jaws, neck and even the brain.

What is a MouthGuard

A mouthguard is like a "crash helmet for your teeth".

They are made of a rubbery material that fits over the teeth and gums cushioning them and protecting them from damage.

Who Should Wear a Mouthguard

Mouthguards are STRONGLY recommended for any one playing sports involving physical contact, fast moving objects or the risk of a heavy fall; e.g: rugby, football, cricket, lacrosse, boxing, martial arts etc.

Types of Mouthguard

Custom made Mouthguards

Custom made mouthguards are available from your dentist. Using a mould of your teeth the mouthguard is specially made to fit exactly over the teeth and gums and therefore offer the best level of comfort and protection..

Custom mouthguards can be made in a variety of colours (eg team colours) and your name can be embedded in the guard for easy identification

They can last for 3-5 years in adults but children will grow out of them in time.  However they can be adapted to accommodate growing teeth and orthodontic appliances (braces).

Stock Mouthguards

These are cheap and are sold in sports shops.  Because they are not tailored to the individual shape of the mouth they can be loose and uncomfortable, interfering with speech and breathing.

There is a danger of these guards being dislodged and obstructing breathing if a person should become unconscious following an accident.

They are not recommended.

"Boil & Bite" Mouthguards

These can be bought relatively cheaply from sports shops.  They are made of a thermoplastic material which softens when heated and can be moulded to the mouth.

Whilst safer than stock mouthguards, incorrect positioning and moulding can seriously decrease the amount of protection they offer.

"Boil & bite" mouthguards may also harden and distort with time due to constant exposure to saliva.