Choosing a mouthguard

There are many types of mouthguards available in Australia, ranging from cheap, over-the-counter types to professionally custom-fitted mouthguards.

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) strongly recommends wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard to ensure maximum protection. These are available from your dentist.

Over-the-counter mouthguards do not provide enough protection against injuries to your teeth, mouth or jaw. Dental injuries can be very costly, so it is worthwhile investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard.

Custom-fitted mouthguards

Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by your dentist, who takes an impression and creates a plaster model of your teeth. Custom-fitting allows your dentist to accurately assess your mouth and provide the best fitting mouthguard that is most appropriate for you.

Custom-fitted mouthguards provide a better fit than other varieties, as they are made to suit your individual needs. When made by your dentist, a custom-fitted mouthguard is:

• Comfortable
• Well-fitting
• Allows you to speak clearly
• Won’t shift or fall out
• Won’t restrict your breathing

Over-the-counter (boil and bite) mouthguards

Over-the-counter mouthguards are far less effective than those that are custom-fitted. These mouthguards include stock mouthguards that do not require fitting, and mouthguards that can be placed in hot water and then self-fitted by biting into the mould.

How long will my mouthguard last?

It’s important that you have your mouthguard assessed by your dentist at your regular dental check-up to ensure it still fits correctly for maximum protection. You may need a replacement if your new, secondary adult teeth have come through or if your mouthguard has been damaged.

How do I care for my mouthguard?

• Rinse in cold water after use
• Store in a rigid plastic container
• Keep out of direct sunlight - mouthguards will change shape in high temperatures
• Occasionally rinse your mouthguard in a mouthwash
• Have your mouthguard assessed by your dentist at your regular dental check-up
• Replace your mouthguard if it gets damaged