Sporting accidents are one of the most common causes of dental injury. Every year thousands of people, including children, are treated for dental injuries that could have been avoided or minimised by wearing a protective, custom-fitted mouthguard. Unfortunately, only 36% of children aged between 5 and 17 wear a mouthguard during sport/games.
To minimise risk of injury, it is best to wear a high quality, custom made mouthguard.
Below we cover some frequent questions relating to mouthguards and how to best protect your smile from sporting injury.
What is a mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a thick, often spongy shield that fits over your teeth. Mouthguards are usually worn during sports and other activities that involve a substantial risk of impact to the face.
Why do you need a mouthguard?
Damaged or knocked out teeth, broken jaws and cut lips can be sustained when playing sport. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard helps to absorb and spread the impact of a blow to your face, which might otherwise result in an injury to your mouth or jaw.
What does a mouthguard do?
A mouthguard provides a defensive wall to keep your teeth, soft tissue, and jaw safe. If you experience a traumatic blow to your jaw area, a mouthguard helps to dissipate the force over a larger surface area, as well as absorbing some of the energy.
A custom-made mouthguard protects your smile by:
• Cushioning your teeth against impact
• Protecting against jaw joint and soft tissue injuries
• Preventing neck and jaw injuries
• Reducing concussion
Why choose a Custom-fitted Mouthguard?
The Australian Dental Association recommends using custom-fitted mouthguards to protect your teeth during sports or extreme activities. The ideal mouthguard is one that has been fitted and custom-made for your mouth. The better your mouthguard fits, the better coverage and protection it gives you.
Custom mouthguards are fitted by a dentist using an impression of your teeth and a plaster model. At Urban Dental we can consider the specific risks that might be associated with your sport and provide extra support and cushioning in these areas. You can be sure that you are getting the optimum protection for your teeth and jaw.
How do you care for your mouthguard?
Before and after using a mouthguard, rinse it, brush with a toothbrush and soap in cold water, rinse and then allow it to air-dry. When not in use, your mouth guard should be kept in a cool place and stored in a plastic container with vents that allow air to circulate.
Most importantly, remember to bring it home after the game. If it’s left in the car, for example, the heat can destroy the shape, rendering it useless. Keep an eye out for any wear or tear as this will indicate the need for replacement.
Get your own custom-made mouth guard from Urban Dental today!
Get sport ready and visit Urban Dental today, our team will be happy to assist you with your custom fitted mouthguard and help you to protect your smile while playing the sport that you love.
Call (07) 3839 9488.