• Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries.
• A mouthguard, custom-fitted by your dentist, is considered to provide the best protection for the teeth, lips and jaw.
• The cost of an injury to the teeth or jaw far exceeds the cost of a custom-fitted mouthguard.

A mouthguard, custom-fitted by your dentist, can reduce the risk of dental injuries. Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries. About 2,000 dental injuries were treated in Victorian hospital emergency departments between 2002 and 2004. People under 25 are most at risk (71%).

Dental injuries can be painful, disfiguring and expensive to treat. Dental injuries may result in time off work or school to recover, and lengthy (expensive) dental treatment. A mouthguard, custom-fitted by your dentist and worn every time you play or train will protect against dental injuries. See your dentist for further information.

Wearing an appropriately designed and made mouthguard while participating in sport will protect against dental injuries. Players of all ages involved in sports and activities where they are at risk of an injury to the face should protect their teeth with a properly fitted mouthguard.

A protective mouthguard should:

• be comfortable yet tight-fitting
• allow normal breathing and swallowing
• allow normal speech
• not cause gagging
• be odourless and tasteless
• be thick enough (4 mm) to provide protection against impact.

The three basic types of mouthguard include:

• Custom-fitted – These mouthguards are made by a dentist or a dental technician to fit the person’s mouth. They provide the best protection due to their close fit, comfort and cushioning (shock absorption) effect. They are the most expensive option. However, the cost of an injury to the teeth or jaw will be a lot more expensive. Dentists recommend custom-fitted mouthguards.
• Boil-and-bite – once the lining is softened in boiling water, the person bites on the mouthguard to help it take the shape of their mouth. These mouthguards may not conform to the person’s bite and can be uncomfortable to wear. A ‘boil-and-bite’ mouthguard should be replaced each season.
• Stock – a ready-to-wear mouthguard that comes pre-formed. While these are the least expensive mouthguard, they also offer the least amount of protection. They tend to be uncomfortable and fit poorly.

Suggestions include:

• Rinse the mouthguard in soap and warm (not hot) water after each use. Allow it to air-dry.
• Disinfect the mouthguard from time to time with a mouthwash.
• Keep the mouthguard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. The box should have several holes in it.
• Do not leave the mouthguard in direct sunlight, in a closed car or in the car’s glove box. Heat can damage it.
• Make sure your mouthguard is in good condition before each use.
• Ask your dentist to inspect your mouthguard at every dental check-up.
• Replace the mouthguard if it is damaged.
• Replace a child’s mouthguard every 12 to 18 months, even if it appears to be in good condition. Growth and new teeth can alter the fit.
• Replace an adult’s mouthguard after dental treatment or tooth loss. Otherwise, it should last for several years.

Be guided by your dentist and coach, but general suggestions include:

• Wear the mouthguard at all times, including games and training sessions.
• Players undergoing dental treatment can have a custom-fitted mouthguard made by their dentist to fit comfortably and accurately over their braces.
• See your dentist if the mouthguard starts to feel uncomfortable or doesn’t fit well.

Things to remember

• Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries.
• A mouthguard, custom-fitted by your dentist, is considered to provide the best protection for the teeth, lips and jaw.
• The cost of an injury to the teeth or jaw far exceeds the cost of a custom-fitted mouthguard.

What does a mouthguard do?

Mouthguards help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.

What kinds of mouthguards are there?

• Custom-fitted mouthguards (made by a dentist and provide the most protection but are the most expensive option)
• Stock (pre-formed guards)
• Boil and bite devices (soften in water and inserted in the mouth)

Whatever mouthguard your child uses, make sure it is tear-resistant, fits properly and comfortably, is easy to clean, and does not restrict speech or breathing.

During what sports should my child wear a mouthguard?

• The American Dental Association recommends that anyone who participates in a sport that carries a significant risk of mouth injury wear a mouth protector.

• Sports with increased risk of mouth injury include football, hockey, basketball, baseball, gymnastics, and volleyball.

• The National Federation of State High School Associations mandates mouthguards for athletes who play football, ice hockey, lacrosse, and field hockey.

How should my child care for their mouthguard?

• Rinse the mouthguard before and after each use or brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

• Occasionally clean the mouthguard with cool, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly.

• Do not leave the mouthguard in the sun or in hot water.

• Transport and store the mouthguard in a sturdy container with vents.

• Check the mouthguard for wear and replace it when the guard becomes distorted.

What are some other mouthguard safety tips?

Athletes should always wear a mouthguard during practice sessions as well as during games. Make sure your child does not chew on or cut pieces off his/her mouthguard. Doing so will decrease its effectiveness.