Custom-fitted mouthguards are a must have for use during all contact sports enjoyed in Australia such as rugby, Australian rules football, martial arts and boxing, as well as for many “non-contact” sports such as basketball, netball, hockey, squash, BMX bike riding, skateboarding, water skiing and horse riding.
A professionally fitted mouthguard helps absorb the shock from a knock to the face that might otherwise result in an injury. Dentists often see the results of heavy collisions during sports which lead to chipped or broken teeth, internal damage to the teeth, loss of a tooth, soft tissue injury, and even concussion or a broken jaw. These injuries can lead to long and expensive treatment to restore the teeth to normal function and appearance. Mouthguards work as shock absorbers to cushion the blow, minimising the risk of these injuries.
When you attend Jorgensen Mutzelburg Dental for a mouthguard, your dentist will custom make a mouthguard to best protect your mouth. As recommended by the Australian Dental Association, our mouthguards are constructed using a laminating technique under high temperature and pressure. This ensures best adaptation to your mouth for the most comfortable fit and best protection. Australia has strict product guidelines for quality called the “Australian standards”. Unfortunately they are not compulsory, but we follow these specifications to ensure provision of a mouthguard with the highest level of protection.
Caring for My Mouthguard
When you receive your mouthguard from Jorgensen Mutzelburg Dental, you will also be provided with a protective case. Following use of the mouthguard, rinse under cool, soapy water and store in your protective case in a secure, cool place. If left in the car, mouthguards can distort under high temperatures.
Mouths and teeth may change over time, leading to a reduction in the fit of your mouthguard. We recommend you bring your mouthguard to your preventative care appointment every six months for review of its fit and absorbency. Research has found that the absorbency of mouthguards decreases over time, so it is recommended that a new mouthguard is constructed every few years to maintain the protection you require. If your mouth or teeth change due to growth, adult teeth erupting, or placement of restorations, then you may need a new mouthguard fitted sooner.
Don’t Risk Your Smile
While “over-the-counter” or “boil and bite” mouthguards are better than not wearing a mouthguard at all, they often give the wearer a false sense of confidence. Due to the poor adaptation, these mouthguards will often become loose, or dislodge at a time when you most need their protection, as well as make it more difficult to talk, and breathe.
To discuss how our caring dentists can help protect your smile, complete our online form or call (07) 3354 1077 and speak with us to arrange an appointment.
