Mouthguards

Sports and leisure activites are the biggest cause of dental injuries. A sports mouthguard is an important and often vital piece of protective equipment in most sports that involve the risk of collision, falls, physical contact and flying equipment. This includes sports such as:

• rugby

• football

• hockey

• gymnastics

• basketball

• boxing and martial arts

 

A knock to the face could result in chipped and fractured teeth and could even lead to a tooth being knocked out. A mouthguard acts to protect the teeth by providing cushioning to them and the lips and guns and reducing the risk of injury and damage to the teeth.

 

Generally a mouthguard will be placed to cover the top teeth since they stick out more and are more likely to take a blow. A mouthguard should be worn at all times while playing and training.

 

At Modern Dentistry, we provide custom-made mouthguards as recommended by the Australian Dental Association and use the best labs to ensure that your teeth are protected while you enjoy the sports that you play.

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Mouthguard care and replacement

You should replace your mouthguard immediately if it shows sign of wear, damage or does not fit correctly. Children will need their mouthguards replaced more frequently because their mouths are still growing and changing.

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Between games, it is important to keep your mouthguard clean and dry. Here are some tips to ensure your mouthguard is always ready to go:

• Rinse before and after each use or brush with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

• Regularly clean the mouthguard in warm, soapy water. Then, rinse and dry it thoroughly.

• Store and transport the mouthguard in a sturdy container.

• Never leave the mouthguard in the sun or in hot water. Heat can cause damage to your mouthguard.

• Check fit and for signs of wear and tear to see if it needs replacing.

• Some mouthguards have fallen victim to family pets, who see them as chew toys! Store your mouthguard and case somewhere your pet cannot get to it.

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What to do if an adult tooth is knocked out

• Keep calm and find the tooth.

• Handle the tooth from the crown - do not touch the root.

• If the tooth is dirty, rinse it in water or milk for a few seconds - no more than 5 seconds.

• It is important to try to place it back into the socket as soon as possible, using the adjacent teeth as a guide, and see your dentist.

• If you are unable to replant the tooth place the tooth in milk or in the person's mouth in between the gum and the cheek get to a dentist who will be able to help. A tooth placed in the socket within 30 minutes of it being knocked out will have the highest chance of survival.

• Do not let the tooth dry.

 

DO NOT replant a baby tooth due to risk of injury to the underlying adult tooth.