A mouthguard (also known as a mouth protector, mouth piece or gumshield) is a protective device for the mouth that covers the teeth and gums to prevent and reduce injury to the teeth, lips and gums. Mouthguards are most often used to prevent injury in contact sports
WHY SHOULD I WEAR A CUSTOM MADE MOUTHGUARD?
To protect your mouth from injuries. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of custom made mouthguards in a variety of sports activities. More than 200,000 injuries to the mouth and jaw occur each year. For information on various types of mouthguards, refer to benefits page. CLICK HERE – http://www.sportsafeaustralia.com.au/benefits/
DO MOUTHGUARDS PREVENT INJURIES?
A mouthguard can prevent serious injuries such as concussions, incidents of unconsciousness, jaw fractures and neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw. Mouthguards are effective in moving soft issue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing laceration and bruising of the lips and cheeks.
MOUTHGUARDS FOR BRACES OR OTHER FIXED ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCES
Custom made mouthguards can accommodate for some tooth movement for most people undergoing orthodontic treatment. These type of mouthguards will not interfere with your braces or other fixed appliances. A custom made mouthguard is especially important for people who wear braces or have fixed orthodontic treatment and also provide a barrier between the braces, your cheek or lips, limiting the risk of soft tissue injuries.
(Please note – Mouthguards for kids undergoing any orthodontic treatment must advise Sportsafe Australia before an order is placed)
DO I GET A REBATE FROM MY PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE?
Yes, however it will depend on the level of cover that you have. Ask your health provider.
WHAT IF MY CHILD HAS LOOSE OR MISSING TEETH?
It is fine to take the impression (mould) with missing teeth and also for kids with erupting teeth and mixed dentition. Our highly trained Dental technicians will allow space for the new tooth to grow into.
HOW LONG WILL MY MOUTHGUARD LAST?
For adults, a mouthguard can last several years depending on the frequency of use. If major changes occur to the teeth, such as large restorations or loss of teeth, the mouthguard may not fit as well as originally and may need to be replaced. If the mouthguard material has been bitten through during use it should also be replaced.
For children, if changes occur to their mouth due to growth, the loss of deciduous teeth, or the eruption of the adult teeth, then their mouthguard may need to be changed annually or even more frequently. Remember, a poorly fitting mouthguard may be providing little protection and is less likely to be worn by children because they are uncomfortable.