Health

Mouthguard information

Sporting accidents are one of the most common causes of dental injury. Every year thousands of people, including children, are treated for dental injuries that could have been avoided or minimised by wearing a protective, custom-fitted mouthguard.

 

Five good reasons to wear a mouthguard:

  1. May help reduce concussion
  2. Protects against soft tissue injuries
  3. Protects against jaw joint injuries
  4. Cushions teeth against impact
  5. Helps prevent neck & jaw injuries

 

When should I wear a mouthguard?

Mouth guards should be worn during any sport where there is the chance of a knock to the face.

There are three types of sport that are considered to have the chance of injury:

  1. Contact sports where contact is part of the game. These include football, rugby, martial arts and boxing. The mouthguard should be compulsory.
  2. Collision sports where contact often happens but is not expected or allowed. These include basketball, hockey, water polo, lacrosse, netball, baseball, softball, squash, soccer, BMX bike riding, horse-riding, skateboarding, in-line skating, trampolining, cricket, water skiing and snow ski racing. A mouthguard is highly recommended.
  3. Non-contact sports where contact is a rare occurrence. These include such sports as tennis where a mouthguard is not needed.

Mouthguards should be worn during all competitions as well as during training sessions, as this is when many injuries occur. This should be stressed to children in junior teams.

Other mouthguard tips:

  • The Australian Dental Association (ADA) strongly recommends that only a professionally custom-fitted mouthguard available from a dentist should be worn.
  • Check your mouthguard every 12 months for optimal fit and protection.
  • Keep your mouthguard clean and store it in a rigid container, away from heat to ensure it maintains its shape.

Remember to wear a mouthguard every time you train or play sport.

 

Jenny Hill

College Nurse

 

Source: Australian Dental Association