Sports mouthguards: effective protection for young and old(er)

For spectators, sport’s inherent unpredictability can make for nail-biting action. For participants putting their bodies on the line, it can also lead to a stint on the injury list.

While sprains and strains are annoying, they’re unlikely to sideline you for long. Before you know it, you’re back on the field, track or court. Dental injuries, however, can cause another level of (physical and financial) pain. Ouch!

Fortunately, there’s a simple way to minimise the risk – the humble mouthguard. This small but effective piece of kit can play a vital role in protecting your teeth, jaws, and soft tissues from trauma.

Who should wear a mouthguard?

Mouthguards are recommended if there’s a risk of contact to the face. According to Australian Dental Association (ADA) guidelines, this means:

• Children and teenagers playing school and community sports
• Adults and professionals in high-contact sports
• Amateur and recreational athletes who participate in risk-prone activities
• Players in sports with incidental contact risks, such as soccer or basketball

The following activities get a notable mention:

🏉 Rugby and AFL (collisions)
🥋 Martial arts and boxing (direct facial impact)
🏒 Hockey (sticks, pucks, and balls)

🏀 Basketball and netball (elbows and falls)
🚴 Cycling, skateboarding and rollerblading (falls)

What do mouthguards protect against?

Mouthguards offer protection against a range of unpleasant-sounding injuries, including fractures (teeth and jaw), knocked-out teeth, cuts and lacerations to the lips, tongue, and inner cheeks and even concussions (by absorbing impact).

Plus, the stats^[i] are compelling, the ADA states that “athletes not wearing a mouthguard are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries”.

Which type offers optimal protection?

They don’t all offer the same level of protection, comfort and durability. Here are the three main types^[ii]:

Over-the-counter

• Pre-formed and inexpensive, but often bulky and ill-fitting
• Minimal protection as they don’t properly conform to teeth
• Hard to breathe and speak while wearing them
• Not recommended for serious athletes

Boil-and-bite

• Available in sports stores and pharmacies
• Slightly better fit than over-the-counter mouthguards, as they’re softened in hot water and then molded to teeth
• Can be uncomfortable and may lose shape over time
• Better than nothing, but not the best protection

Custom-fitted

• Made by a dentist to fit your teeth
• Offers maximum protection, comfort, and durability
• Easier to breathe, speak, and drink while wearing
• Recommended by the ADA and Sports Medicine Australia
• Best option for both amateur and professional athletes

How it’s made

First, your dentist assesses your teeth and bite – this includes a digital scan or physical impression (for a precise fit). No problem if you/your child has braces; they’ll be factored in.

Your custom mouthguard is then molded from thermoplastic material, to a thickness tailored to your sport and level of contact risk.

When you collect your mouthguard, your dentist will check the fit and make any minor adjustments.

Care instructions

A well-maintained mouthguard lasts one season or longer, depending on wear and tear. Follow these steps to keep yours in top condition:

• Rinse before and after each use with cold water
• Clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (avoid toothpaste—it’s too abrasive!)
• Store in a ventilated container (never leave it in a closed, damp case)
• Keep away from heat (hot water, direct sunlight, dashboards) to prevent warping
• Replace every 12 months or sooner if it becomes loose, worn, or damaged

Cover that keeps your smile safe

So there you have it! Mouthguards aren’t just for rugby players or boxers – they’re a smart investment for anyone who wants to protect their smile.

If you or your kids hit the field, court, or track, especially in a contact sport, booking an appointment with your dentist to get one can be a game-changer. Plus, a little bonus tip: if you’ve got Extras cover, you might even be able to claim some of the cost back. Now that’s a win-win for your smile and your wallet!

[i] Journal of the American Dental Association, 2023. "Effectiveness of mouthguards in sports-related dental trauma"

[ii] Australian Dental Association, 2024. "Guidelines on Mouthguard Fabrication"