Why a Custom Sports Mouthguard Matters for Athletes

Dental Injuries in Sport Are More Common Than You Might Think

Sports-related dental injuries are a significant concern for athletes of all ages. Contact sports such as AFL, rugby, basketball, hockey, and cricket carry a higher risk of impact to the face and mouth, but dental injuries can occur in almost any physical activity — including sports not typically considered high-risk, such as cycling, skateboarding, or gymnastics.

A knocked-out or broken tooth can be painful, costly to repair, and may have long-term consequences for your oral health. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sport is one of the simplest steps you can take to help protect your teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from injury.

Custom-Fitted vs Store-Bought Mouthguards

Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. There are generally three types available:

Stock mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to wear straight from the packet. These come in limited sizes and often fit poorly, which can make breathing and speaking difficult. They typically provide the least protection.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Softened in hot water and then moulded around the teeth by biting down. While they offer a somewhat better fit than stock options, the material can be thin in key areas and the fit may still be imprecise.
Custom-fitted mouthguards: Made by a dental professional from an impression or scan of your teeth. These are designed to fit your mouth precisely, providing even coverage and a comfortable, secure fit that allows normal breathing and speaking.

Research suggests that custom-fitted mouthguards may offer more effective protection than over-the-counter options due to their precise fit and consistent material thickness. A mouthguard that fits well is also more likely to be worn consistently, which is essential for it to be effective.

Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?

Dental Australia and various sporting bodies recommend mouthguards for anyone participating in activities where there is a risk of contact to the face. This includes both competitive and recreational sport. Children and teenagers, whose teeth and jaws are still developing, may particularly benefit from the protection a mouthguard can provide.

Sports where mouthguards are commonly recommended include:

Australian Rules Football (AFL)
Rugby league and rugby union
Basketball and netball
Hockey (both field and ice)
Cricket (especially for batters and wicket-keepers)
Boxing and martial arts
Soccer and water polo

Caring for Your Mouthguard

To help maintain the effectiveness and hygiene of your mouthguard, consider the following tips:

Rinse your mouthguard with cool water or a mild mouthwash before and after each use.
Store it in a sturdy, ventilated container to allow air circulation and prevent damage.
Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot environments, as heat can distort the shape.
Bring it to your regular dental check-ups so your dentist can assess its condition and fit.
Replace it each season, or sooner if it shows signs of wear, becomes loose, or no longer fits comfortably — particularly important for growing children and teenagers.

Getting a Custom Mouthguard at Divine Dental Care