Defend Your Smile - Protect it with a mouthguard
Why do you need a mouthguard? Sports Medicine Australia reports that 50% of children experience some form of dental injury. A mouthguard, which typically cover the upper teeth, helps absorb the shock from a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken or lost teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth. A mouthguard will also reduce the risk of jaw fractures and concussion.
Who should wear a mouthguard? Anyone who participates in a sport that involves a risk of a knock to the face should wear a mouthguard. This includes collision sports where contact often happens but is not expected or even allowed eg netball, soccer, cricket and football!
Keep in mind that, even if a child only has baby teeth, a blow to the face can cause damage to soft tissues and bones and also damage the adult teeth that are developing in the jaws!
What type of mouthguard should you use? While there are two types of mouthguards – the custom-fitted mouthguard and the ‘over-the-counter’ or ‘boil and bite’ mouthguard, the ADA and Standards Australia recommends that for proper protection, the custom- fitted mouthguard is essential and superior to over- the -counter mouthguards.
However, an over-the-counter mouthguard is better than no mouthguard at all, so if you do need to use one, follow the directions carefully to ensure they fit as well as possible.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by your dentist, from a mould taken of your teeth. Your dentist can design the most appropriate mouthguard for you - considering the type of mouthguard appropriate for your sport and the dimensions, coverage and thickness of the mouthguard material. These mouthguards are comfortable, allow you to talk and do not restrict breathing.
How long will a mouthguard last? All mouthguards should be reviewed every 12 months by your dentist. Children’s mouthguards need to be reviewed and often changed more frequently until all their adult teeth have erupted (early to mid teens).
How do you care for a mouthguard? Mouthguards need to be rinsed in cold, soapy water after use, dried and stored in a plastic container. As mouthguards can distort under higher temperatures, they should be kept in a cool place.
For more information on mouthguards and protecting teeth, you can visit www.ada.org.au
