A knock to the mouth can happen in a split second on the footy field, the netball court or a skate ramp. Teeth can crack, move out of place or come out completely. Some of these injuries need dental care for the rest of a person’s life. A well fitted sports mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to lower that risk.
This guide covers the main types of mouthguards and what a good one should feel like. It also explains how to clean and store a guard and when to replace it. The advice suits children and adults who play any sport with a chance of a hit to the face.
Who should wear a sports mouthguard
The Australian Dental Association recommends that all children and adults wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports. It also points out that some non contact sports carry a high risk of mouth injury. So a guard is worth wearing in those sports too. The advice is to wear it at every training session as well as every game.
Victoria’s Better Health Channel lists sport, leisure and recreation as the most common causes of dental injuries. It names cycling, skateboarding and scooter riding among the activities linked with these injuries. Any sport with collisions, falls or flying equipment such as balls, bats and sticks carries some risk.
Some people face a higher risk than others. This includes people whose front teeth stick out and people whose lips don’t cover their front teeth well. People who wear braces and people in high collision sports are also in this group. If that sounds like you or your child, a guard matters even more.
The three main types of mouthguards
Mouthguards come in three broad styles. They differ a lot in fit, comfort and the level of protection they give. Price follows the same pattern, so the cheapest option is also the least protective.
Custom fitted mouthguards
A custom fitted guard is made by a dentist or dental technician from a mould or 3D scan of your teeth. Dentists recommend this type because it sits closely, stays in place and gives the most protection. It costs the most, but the Better Health Channel notes that treating a dental or jaw injury costs far more.
Boil and bite mouthguards
These are bought from a shop or chemist and softened in boiling water. You then bite into the soft plastic so it moulds roughly to your teeth. They may not fit your bite well and can feel bulky. They should be replaced every season.
Stock mouthguards
Stock guards come ready to wear straight out of the packet. They are the cheapest type and they give the least protection. They often fit poorly. The ADA fact sheet says store bought guards can also affect speech and breathing.
What a good fit feels like
A good mouthguard should be comfortable yet tight fitting. It should let the wearer breathe, swallow and speak normally without gagging. It should also have no smell or taste. The Better Health Channel advice on mouthguards says it should be thick enough to protect against impact, which it puts at 4 mm. These are the main points to check when a new guard is fitted:
- It stays in place without you clenching your teeth.
- You can breathe and talk without much trouble.
- It doesn’t make you gag or feel sick.
- It covers the teeth evenly and isn’t rubbing the gums.
Players with braces can have a custom guard made to fit over them. This is worth raising with the dentist or orthodontist before the season starts. If a guard ever becomes uncomfortable or loose, see a dentist rather than putting up with it.
Cleaning and storing your mouthguard
A mouthguard sits in a warm, wet mouth for hours, so regular cleaning keeps it fresh. Rinse it after each use with soap and cool or warm water, never hot. Let it air dry before putting it away. The Better Health Channel also suggests disinfecting it now and then with mouthwash.
Store the guard in a firm plastic case with air holes. Keep it out of direct sun and never leave it in a hot car or glove box. Heat and boiling water can warp the shape so it no longer fits. The Australian Dental Association sports mouthguard fact sheet also suggests writing your name on the guard and its case, and not chewing on it.
Busy weeks make it easy for small things to go missing. If your family is in the middle of a move, keep the case with the sports bag, much like the planning in our guide to packing for a home move. That way it is ready for the next training session.
When to replace a mouthguard
Children’s mouths change quickly as they grow and new teeth come through. For that reason a child’s guard should be replaced every 12 to 18 months, even if it still looks fine. Speech is another area that changes as children grow, which our piece on speech and language development explores.
An adult’s custom guard can last several years if it is looked after. It should be replaced after dental treatment or tooth loss, since these change the fit. Any guard that is torn, worn thin or damaged should be replaced straight away. Taking it along to regular check ups lets the dentist look it over.
Mouthguards and everyday dental care
A mouthguard protects against knocks, but it doesn’t replace good daily habits. Regular dental visits still matter, and the dentist can check the guard at the same time. Our tips on looking after your teeth over the holidays cover some of these habits. A balanced diet also supports overall health, and our article on facts about vitamins is a good place to start.
Frequently asked questions
Do kids need a mouthguard for training as well as games?
Yes. Dental groups advise wearing a guard at every training session as well as every match. Knocks can happen just as easily during drills and practice games.
Is a boil and bite mouthguard good enough?
It gives some protection and is better than nothing. However, dentists recommend a custom fitted guard because it fits closely and protects better. A boil and bite guard should also be replaced each season.
How should I clean a mouthguard?
Rinse it with soap and cool or warm water after each use. Let it dry, then store it in a ventilated case away from heat and sun. Avoid hot or boiling water, as it can change the shape.
Can you wear a mouthguard with braces?
Yes. A dentist can make a custom guard designed to fit over braces. People with braces are in a higher risk group, so it is worth asking early. Your dentist or orthodontist can check the fit as treatment goes on.
This article is general information only and is not medical or dental advice. Please speak with your dentist or a qualified health professional about your own situation.
