There are many types of mouthguards available in Australia, ranging from cheap, over-the-counter types to professionally custom-fitted mouthguards.
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) strongly recommends wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard to ensure maximum protection. These are available from your dentist.
Over-the-counter mouthguards do not provide enough protection against injuries to your teeth, mouth or jaw. Dental injuries can be very costly, so it is worthwhile investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard.
Custom-fitted mouthguards
Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by your dentist, who takes an impression and creates a plaster model of your teeth. Custom-fitting allows your dentist to accurately assess your mouth and provide the best fitting mouthguard that is most appropriate for you.
Custom-fitted mouthguards provide a better fit than other varieties, as they are made to suit your individual needs. When made by your dentist, a custom-fitted mouthguard is:
Comfortable
Well-fitting
Allows you to speak clearly
Won’t shift or fall out
Won’t restrict your breathing
Over-the-counter (boil and bite) mouthguards
Over-the-counter mouthguards are far less effective than those that are custom-fitted. These mouthguards include stock mouthguards that do not require fitting, and mouthguards that can be placed in hot water and then self-fitted by biting into the mould.
How long will my mouthguard last?
It’s important that you have your mouthguard assessed by your dentist at your regular dental check-up to ensure it still fits correctly for maximum protection. You may need a replacement if your new, secondary adult teeth have come through or if your mouthguard has been damaged.
How do I care for my mouthguard?
Rinse in cold water after use
Store in a rigid plastic container
Keep out of direct sunlight – mouthguards will change shape in high temperatures
Occasionally rinse your mouthguard in a mouthwash
Have your mouthguard assessed by your dentist at your regular dental check-up
Replace your mouthguard if it gets damaged