Mouthguards – Part 1

Australian research shows that sports injuries account for approximately one-third of traumatic injuries to teeth. These injuries can lead to potentially extensive and costly dental treatment.
A properly fitted mouthguard should be worn during any activity where there is risk of an injury to the face.  Mouthguards should always be worn when participating in contact sports such as football, hockey, volleyball, soccer etc. Without a mouthguard, injuries and accidents can result in damage and injury to the gums, lips or teeth, tooth fractures, lost teeth and jaw fractures.

Trauma to teeth is also common with falls from skateboards, roller-blades, trampolines and scooters.

There are several types of mouthguard available.  These generally fall into three categories:

 1.    Custom-fitted – constructed and fitted to the shape of your mouth by your dentist. These mouthguards have been proven to reduce the number and severity of mouth injuries in sport and during training.

2.    Boil-and-bite – available over the counter from pharmacies and sports stores, these mouthguards use a lining which softens when placed in hot water and is then moulded to the teeth in the mouth.  The process of biting down into the softened lining can decrease the thickness and effectiveness of the guard.  These mouthguards are available in a number of sizes but for some people they may be quite bulky and uncomfortable.

3.    Ready-made – also available from pharmacies and sports stores, these are ready-to-wear mouthguards which are often quite inexpensive.  As they do not conform to the shapes of the teeth they provide the least protection and are the most uncomfortable.

The Australian Dental Association recommends custom-fitted mouthguards as these provide the most effective protection.
A custom made mouthguard should:
·    Fit snugly and be comfortable
·    Allow normal breathing and swallowing
·    Allow the wearer to speak
·    Be odourless and tasteless
·    Be thick enough (4mm) to provide protection against impact.

Dr Andrew Lim

John Street Dental
Links:
·    Don’t hit the field without a mouthguard this footy season
·    Australian Dental Association (ADA) Mouthguard Awareness Campaign