What is a Mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a guard used for the protection of your teeth during contact sports, or sports where there is a risk of falling. A mouthguard acts as a shock absorber and unlike the ones purchased at the chemist,  are properly fitted to prevent chipped or broken teeth, as well as concussions or headaches that result from the lower jaw slamming up against the upper jaw. Kids mouthguards last between a season and 2-3 years depending on the age of the player. Children up to the age of 15 usually require a new mouthguard every year. Older children and adults last much longer – depending on how they are looked after.

The Dental Health Foundation and the Australian Dental Association strongly recommend  custom made mouthguards.  A boil and bite mouthguard is not recommended, it is false economy buying a cheap over the counter product as they may not protect your teeth. It’s difficult to fit with a risk of burning your mouth, they can make you gag and it is uncomfortable to wear by not staying in place making it almost impossible to talk and breathe. Players have been known to choke during sport after swallowing this type of product and as they do not fit well the teeth that they touch are more prevalent to be knocked out on impact.