Natural teeth are irreplaceable. Even with advanced dental treatments, no artificial tooth can truly match the strength, comfort, or function of your natural ones. A sudden hit to the face or mouth can cause permanent damage — injuries that may never heal completely.
A custom-fitted mouthguard is an affordable and effective way to protect your teeth, gums, tongue, and lips from injury. It helps absorb impact during sports and other physical activities, reducing the risk of broken or dislodged teeth and soft tissue cuts.
Falls, collisions, and accidental blows are among the most common causes of dental trauma. Whether it's a racquet, ball, or another player's elbow, even minor accidents can cause serious oral injuries. Mouthguards act as a protective barrier, distributing the impact force and reducing damage to teeth and surrounding tissues.
Multiple studies confirm that wearing a properly fitted mouthguard significantly lowers the chances of oral injuries during contact sports.
Mouthguards have been used for over a century. Originally adopted by professional boxers in the early 1900s, they have since become an essential part of sports safety equipment. Many sporting associations now require mouthguards for participation — a testament to their proven effectiveness in preventing serious dental injuries.
Sports and recreational activities that involve contact or collision present a real risk to teeth and soft tissues. According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), more than 2% of Australian children experience dental trauma each year — most of which could be prevented by wearing a mouthguard.
Among all types, custom-fitted mouthguards made by a dentist provide the most secure fit and the highest level of protection.
A properly designed mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing and dispersing impact forces. It helps prevent cracked, fractured, or displaced teeth, as well as injuries to lips, gums, and cheeks. A custom-made mouthguard is crafted from pliable material that separates the upper and lower teeth while maintaining comfort and stability.
According to the ADA, individuals who play contact sports without a mouthguard are up to 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries. Mouthguards help dissipate impact energy and reduce the risk of lacerations or fractures.
However, not all mouthguards offer the same level of safety. The type and quality of the mouthguard directly affect how much protection it can provide.
There are three main types of mouthguards available:
Crafted by a dentist using dental impressions, these mouthguards fit precisely and provide maximum protection. Made from shock-absorbing materials, they allow normal breathing and speaking. Custom mouthguards can be pressure-laminated or vacuum-formed for a perfect fit.
Made from thermoplastic material, these are softened in hot water and then shaped by biting. While inexpensive, their fit is often less accurate and can distort over time.
These are off-the-shelf products that come in standard sizes. They are the least protective and often uncomfortable, as they rely on clenching to stay in place. Stock mouthguards do not properly absorb impact and can give a false sense of security.
A dentist-fitted mouthguard offers superior protection, comfort, and durability. It is professionally moulded to fit your unique bite pattern, ensuring it stays securely in place even during intense activity.
A well-made mouthguard not only protects your teeth but also helps prevent injuries to your tongue, cheeks, and lips. Dentist-designed mouthguards are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring long-lasting hygiene and comfort.
Children who play contact sports are particularly vulnerable to dental injuries, with boys aged 8–12 being most at risk. Dentist-fitted mouthguards are highly recommended for kids because they provide a secure fit and don't interfere with speech or breathing.
Custom mouthguards can be made in a variety of colours, making them easy to identify and fun for children to wear. A comfortable fit also means kids are more likely to use them regularly.
Contact and collision sports such as football, rugby, hockey, basketball, martial arts, and boxing carry a high risk of mouth injuries. Studies estimate that athletes face a 10% risk of oral injury in a single game and up to 50% over a career.
Wearing a custom-fit mouthguard dramatically reduces these risks by cushioning blows and absorbing shocks that could otherwise fracture or knock out teeth.
If you or your child wears braces, a dentist can design a custom mouthguard that fits comfortably without disrupting orthodontic treatment. This helps protect both the braces and teeth from impact injuries during sports.
Repairing damaged teeth can cost thousands, but a custom mouthguard is a one-time investment that helps prevent these expenses. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and long-term oral health.
Always wear a mouthguard during contact sports or risky activities like skateboarding and martial arts.
Choose a custom-fitted mouthguard for the best comfort and protection.
Replace your mouthguard if it becomes loose or damaged.
Visit your dentist regularly to ensure it still fits properly.
These clear, plastic, custom-created guards fit snugly over your teeth, leaving you able to speak and breathe normally. Mouthguards can be worn during practice sessions and matches, and we can help you choose the type that’s best for you. Though over-the-counter options are available from a chemist, they’re bulky, messy to fit and don’t offer the same level of protection that children and adults alike need.
If you’re interested in mouthguards in Brisbane CBD, start by arranging an appointment for an evaluation. We can provide estimates of cost and walk you through exactly what’s involved. When you have your visit, we’ll take impressions of your teeth and use this information to make a mouthguard that’s a perfect fit for you.
Contact us today to book your time! We’re here to answer any questions you might have or address your concerns so that you feel confident in choosing Brisbane CBD Dental Clinic as your dental provider.