Playing sports is a great way to stay active and build teamwork skills, but it also comes with risks—especially to your teeth and jaw. Whether you’re engaging in high-contact sports like football or rugby or those where accidental falls are common, such as basketball or skateboarding, dental injuries can happen in an instant. At Arthur Street Dental, we want you to enjoy your time and your athletics, but we want you to be safe while participating.
A sports guard, also called a mouthguard, helps protect your smile from trauma during sporting activities, rough play, or when working with unpredictable machinery.
About Mouthguards in Coffs Harbour, NSW
You can purchase a mouthguard in your local shop, but the chances of it fitting correctly and protecting your teeth and gums from sports-related injuries or other traumas may be small. Additionally, it may rub against your cheeks and gums, creating irritation, speech difficulties, and even interfering with breathing.
A properly fitted sports mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from serious harm. While helmets and padding are often prioritised, many athletes underestimate the importance of mouth protection. Understanding how mouthguards work and why they’re essential can help you make the right choice for your oral health.
At Arthur Street Dental, your dentist in Coffs Harbour custom designs your mouthguard after taking an impression of your mouth. We then create a protective appliance that fits the contours of your teeth and gums, allowing for a snug but not uncomfortable fit.
Your sports guard in Coffs Harbour creates a safe zone between potential injuries and your teeth and gums.
The Risk of Sports-Related Dental Injuries
Many athletes don’t realise how common dental injuries are until they experience one firsthand. A sudden impact—whether from a fall, a collision, or an accidental blow to the face—can cause painful and costly damage. The most common of these sports-related dental injuries include:
- Chipped or broken teeth — Even a minor fracture can weaken a tooth, expose its vulnerable interior “pulp,” and lead to severe problems.
- Knocked-out teeth — A completely dislodged tooth requires immediate emergency care.
- Soft tissue injuries — Lips, gums, and inner cheeks can suffer cuts or bruising from sudden impact.
- Jaw injuries — A direct hit can cause dislocations or fractures, leading to long-term discomfort and functional issues.
Without protection, these injuries can result in painful procedures, lengthy recovery times, and expensive dental treatments.
How Mouthguards Work to Protect Your Smile
A sports mouthguard is designed to absorb and distribute the force of an impact, preventing direct trauma to your teeth and jaw. However, its benefits extend beyond mere cushioning, and include:
- Stabilising your jaw and reducing the risk of fractures or joint injuries.
- Acting as a barrier between your teeth and soft tissues, preventing accidental cuts and bruises inside your mouth.
- Providing an added layer of protection for athletes with braces or dental restorations.
Without a mouthguard, the force of a blow is absorbed directly by your teeth, increasing the likelihood of serious injury.
Types of Sports Mouthguards: Which One Is Best for You?
Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. Choosing the right type of mouthguard can make a big difference in comfort and effectiveness. Here are your top options:
- Stock — These pre-made, one-size-fits-all options are the least expensive but also the least protective since they are not custom-fitted.
- Boil-and-bite — A step up from stock versions, these can be softened in hot water and moulded to your teeth for a somewhat better fit.
- Custom-fitted — Made by a dentist, these provide the highest level of protection, fit, and comfort, making them ideal for serious athletes.
Taking Care of Your Appliance
You want your mouthguard to last for a long time, and to achieve this, we recommend the following:
- Rinse your appliance with cool water after use—mild soap or a soft toothbrush is also okay.
- Avoid exposing your sports guard to extreme temperatures.
- Bring your appliance to dental visits so your dentist can check it for damage or deterioration.
- Store your mouthguard in a ventilated container, and ask your dentist if it should be soaked in water.
- If you notice cracks or damage, contact your Coffs Harbour dentist for instructions.
Depending on your mouthguard, your dentist may provide more specific tips for use and storage.
Preserving and Protecting Smiles with Mouthguards in Coffs Harbour, NSW
Protecting your teeth should be a priority in any sport. A high-quality mouthguard can prevent serious injuries, saving you from pain, costly dental procedures, and time away from the game. If you or your child needs a well-fitted sports mouthguard, contact Dr Justin Ward and the helpful and knowledgeable Arthur Street Dental team to arrange a consultation and fitting to find your best option for lasting protection!