Mouthguards

Anyone who plays a sport that carries a major risk of a knock to the face should wear a mouthguard. This includes sports like:

• football
• hockey
• rugby
• soccer
• basketball
• netball
• water polo
• volleyball.

Wear a mouthguard while playing and training. Also wear it when doing activities like rollerblading, skateboarding, mountain bike riding, trampolining and horse riding to protect your teeth.

A mouthguard can help cushion a strong blow to the face that otherwise might result in an injury to the mouth. It acts as a shock absorber protecting the teeth and lower jaw from breaking and prevents you from accidentally biting your lips, tongue or cheeks. A misdirected elbow in a one-on-one basketball game or a fall off a skateboard can leave you with chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth or even tooth loss.

The best mouthguard is one fitted to your mouth that doesn’t restrict breathing. It should be stable, comfortable, allow you to talk and not cause choking. Off-the-shelf mouthguards available at sport stores and chemists are cheap but often cannot be made to fit the mouth properly. A custom made mouthguard obtained from a dental practitioner provides the best comfort and fit. Remember though, as the mouth grows, a new mouth guard is needed.

If you play sport or participate in activities that have a high risk of a knock to the face and jaws, you should wear a mouthguard. Mouthguards can be made to fit over braces. It will be a cushion between the braces and your cheek or lips.

• Rinse the mouthguard in mouthwash or mild antiseptic just before use.
• Rinse the mouthguard with water before putting into mouth.
• Clean mouthguard after use by washing with mild soap and cold water.
• Dry the mouthguard and store in a rigid box and away from heat.

Call your dental practitioner if there are any problems.