CUSTOM MOUTHGUARD
As the winter sports season kicks off, we start to see plenty of excitement - footy training, weekend games, school competitions, and lots of time spent outdoors staying active. Whether you or your kids are playing rugby league, AFL, hockey, soccer, basketball, or martial arts, there’s one piece of protective equipment that often gets overlooked - a properly fitted custom mouthguard.
From your friendly local dental team, here’s why a custom mouthguard should be at the top of your winter sports checklist.
From your friendly local dental team, here’s why a custom mouthguard should be at the top of your winter sports checklist.
WHY MOUTHGUARDS MATTER MORE THAN YOU THINK
Sports injuries to the mouth and teeth are surprisingly common — and they often happen in a split second. A stray elbow, an accidental collision, or even an awkward fall can lead to chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, jaw injuries, or cuts to the lips and cheeks.
The good news is that many dental injuries are preventable with the right protection. A quality mouthguard acts like a cushion, absorbing and spreading the force of impact so your teeth, gums, and jaw are much less likely to be damaged.
And while professional athletes wear them, mouthguards are just as important for kids and weekend players. In fact, younger players are often at higher risk because they’re still learning skills and coordination.
The good news is that many dental injuries are preventable with the right protection. A quality mouthguard acts like a cushion, absorbing and spreading the force of impact so your teeth, gums, and jaw are much less likely to be damaged.
And while professional athletes wear them, mouthguards are just as important for kids and weekend players. In fact, younger players are often at higher risk because they’re still learning skills and coordination.
CUSTOM MOUTHGUARDS VS STORE-BOUGHT OPTIONS
You’ve probably seen “boil-and-bite” mouthguards at sports stores. While they might seem convenient, they don’t offer the same level of protection, comfort, or durability as a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist.
A custom mouthguard is made specifically for your teeth using a precise impression or digital scan. That means it fits securely without feeling bulky or making it hard to talk or breathe — something players really appreciate during training and games.
A custom mouthguard is made specifically for your teeth using a precise impression or digital scan. That means it fits securely without feeling bulky or making it hard to talk or breathe — something players really appreciate during training and games.
👉 If you notice your child constantly chewing on their mouthguard or it seems to spend more time out of their mouth than in, it’s usually a sign it’s uncomfortable — and a properly fitted custom mouthguard will make a big difference
Because they fit properly, custom mouthguards are also less likely to fall out during impact and are designed with the right thickness and materials to provide maximum protection. Many patients tell us they actually prefer wearing a custom mouthguard because it feels natural and comfortable compared to generic versions.
WHO SHOULD BE WEARING A MOUTHGUARD?
If there’s a risk of contact, collision, or falling, a mouthguard is strongly recommended. This includes popular winter sports like rugby league, AFL, hockey, netball, basketball, soccer, martial arts, and even skateboarding or mountain biking.
Children and teenagers are especially important to protect — their teeth are still developing, and a serious dental injury at a young age can have lifelong consequences.
Adults shouldn’t skip protection either. Dental injuries can be costly, painful, and time-consuming to fix, which is why prevention is always the best option.
Children and teenagers are especially important to protect — their teeth are still developing, and a serious dental injury at a young age can have lifelong consequences.
Adults shouldn’t skip protection either. Dental injuries can be costly, painful, and time-consuming to fix, which is why prevention is always the best option.
ADDED BENEFITS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT
Beyond protecting teeth from being chipped or knocked out, custom mouthguards can also help reduce the risk of jaw injuries and soft tissue damage inside the mouth. Some research even suggests that properly fitted mouthguards may help reduce the severity of concussions by absorbing impact forces — another reason they’re widely recommended in contact sports.
Plus, they can be customised with team colours, making them a fun part of your sporting gear rather than something you forget in your bag.
Plus, they can be customised with team colours, making them a fun part of your sporting gear rather than something you forget in your bag.
WHEN SHOULD YOU GET ONE MADE?
The best time to organise a custom mouthguard is before the season gets busy. That way you’re fully protected from the first training session to the final game. Kids who are growing or undergoing orthodontic treatment may need their mouthguard checked regularly to make sure it still fits well.
PROTECT YOUR SMILE THIS WINTER
Winter sports are fantastic for fitness, teamwork, and fun — and with the right protective equipment, they can also be much safer for your teeth and smile.
If you or your child are gearing up for the season, chat to the Clubb Dental team about getting a custom mouthguard made. It’s a simple step that can help prevent serious injuries and give you peace of mind every time you step onto the field or court.
Because when it comes to sport, the only thing that should be getting knocked around is the ball — not your teeth! 🏉🦷
If you or your child are gearing up for the season, chat to the Clubb Dental team about getting a custom mouthguard made. It’s a simple step that can help prevent serious injuries and give you peace of mind every time you step onto the field or court.
Because when it comes to sport, the only thing that should be getting knocked around is the ball — not your teeth! 🏉🦷
Shark Teeth? |
Should you use Mouthwash? |
5 tips to reduce bleeding gums |