Dentist Mouthguards vs. Over-the-counter Mouthguards
Every year, thousands of Australians—kids and adults alike—suffer dental injuries that could have been avoided with one simple piece of gear: a mouthguard. In this article we discuss the reasons why a custom dentist supplied mouthguard is a better choice for protecting your smile versus an over-the-counter one.
It’s easy to assume that only full-contact sports like rugby, AFL, hockey, or boxing put your teeth at risk. But what many people don’t realise is that non-contact sports like cricket, soccer, basketball, and netball often result in accidental collisions—and just one unlucky hit to the mouth can lead to serious dental trauma. Training sessions are just as risky as game days, and all it takes is one moment to change the health of your smile for good.
What’s at Stake?
Sporting injuries to the mouth can cause cracked or knocked-out teeth, jaw fractures, damage to nerves, or cuts to the lips and tongue. And unfortunately, once a tooth is damaged, it often requires ongoing dental treatment for the rest of your life. That’s why prevention is key.
Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?
A custom-fitted mouthguard offers the highest level of protection. Unlike the ‘boil and bite’ versions you can buy off the shelf, a dentist-made mouthguard fits snugly to the shape of your teeth and gums. It won’t move around during play, it’s easier to speak and breathe while wearing, and—most importantly— its design significantly reduces the risk of serious injury.
At Kingston Beach Dental, we create mouthguards that are tailored just for you. The process is simple: we take an impression of your teeth to make a model, then use it to design a mouthguard that fits you perfectly. We’ll also show you how to care for it, and we can assess it during your regular check-ups to make sure it still fits correctly—especially important for growing kids or anyone with new dental work.
Check with Your Health Fund
Before you book in, it’s worth checking with your health fund to see if you’re covered for a custom mouthguard. Some health funds cover 100% of the cost, which means you can protect your teeth without paying a cent out of pocket.
Protect Your Smile the Smart Way
Don’t wait until after an accident to take action. Even if your sporting season has commenced there is still time to arrange a custom mouthguard - it’s one of the smartest sporting moves you can make!
Contact us at Kingston Beach Dental to find out more or to make an appointment for your custom mouthguard today.
