Mouthguard's
Custom Mouthguards Bundoora: Why Wear a Mouthguard?
Custom mouthguards Bundoora at Alma Denture are made to fit the individual shape of your teeth and mouth. A professionally fitted sports mouthguard can help absorb and spread the impact of a blow to the face, reducing the risk or severity of injuries to the teeth, lips, cheeks, mouth and jaw.
Who should wear a mouthguard?
A mouthguard should be considered by anyone taking part in a sport or activity where there is a risk of contact to the face. This includes contact sports such as Australian football, rugby, boxing, martial arts and hockey. It may also include basketball, netball, soccer, cricket, baseball, softball, BMX riding, skateboarding, horse riding, water polo, skiing and other activities where unexpected contact or falls may occur.
Protective equipment should be used during training and practice as well as during competition. The most suitable mouthguard depends on the sport, age, dental development, previous dental treatment and individual risk factors.
Why is a custom-fitted mouthguard important?
A custom-fitted mouthguard is made from an impression or digital record of your mouth. This allows the appliance to be designed for your teeth, bite and sporting needs. A good fit helps the mouthguard stay securely in place and can make it easier to breathe, speak and concentrate while playing.
The Australian Dental Association advises that custom-fitted mouthguards provide the most effective protection, fit and comfort. Stock and boil-and-bite products are less individualised, and the level of protection can vary according to their design, thickness, adaptation and comfort. If a custom mouthguard is not immediately available, discuss the safest short-term option with a dental practitioner.
What happens when a custom mouthguard is made?
Your mouth and teeth are assessed before the mouthguard is made. An impression or other accurate record is taken, and the mouthguard is created to provide suitable coverage, thickness and fit. The final appliance is checked in the mouth, and you receive advice about wearing, cleaning and storing it.
Different sports involve different levels and types of contact. Alma Denture can discuss the appropriate mouthguard design and lamination for your activity. Options may include single-laminated mouthguards for lower-impact activities, double-laminated mouthguards for higher-contact sports, and heavier multi-laminated mouthguards where additional protection may be indicated. The final recommendation depends on an individual assessment.
When should a mouthguard be checked or replaced?
A mouthguard should be checked regularly for splits, thinning, distortion, poor fit or changes in the bite. It should also be reviewed as part of routine dental care, or at least annually. Children and teenagers may need replacement more often as their mouths grow and baby teeth are replaced by adult teeth.
Contact your dental practitioner if the mouthguard becomes loose, feels too tight, causes discomfort or no longer stays securely in place. Changes such as new restorations, orthodontic treatment, tooth movement or emerging adult teeth can affect the fit. Do not continue using a damaged or badly fitting mouthguard without professional advice.
How do I clean and store my mouthguard?
Rinse the mouthguard before and after every use. Wash it with mild soap and cold or lukewarm water, and gently clean the inner surface with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water because heat may distort the material and change the fit.
Allow the mouthguard to dry and keep it in a clean, rigid and ventilated container. Store it away from direct sunlight, heat, pets and anything that could damage it. Do not share a custom mouthguard with another person. Check it regularly and bring it to appointments so the fit and condition can be assessed.
Custom mouthguards for different sports
Alma Denture provides custom-fitted mouthguards for children and adults involved in a wide range of sports. Colour choices and suitable protective thicknesses can be discussed during the appointment. Whether the mouthguard is for school sport, club training, competition or recreational activity, the aim is to provide a secure and comfortable fit appropriate to the wearer.
To arrange an assessment for custom mouthguards in Bundoora, contact Alma Denture. We can discuss your sport, current dental condition and the most suitable mouthguard option for your needs.