MOUTHGUARDS

Sporting injuries to teeth which would have been prevented if the patients had been wearing mouthguards.

What is a mouthguard ?

A mouthguard is a specially made, rubber-like cover which fits exactly over your teeth and gums, cushioning them and protecting them from damage.

When would I need a mouthguard ?

It is important to wear a professionally made mouthguard whenever you play sport that involves physical contact or moving objects. This includes

Cricket
Hockey
Football
Boxing
Rugby

which can all cause broken and damaged teeth and broken or dislocated jaws.

A mouthguard will help protect against these events.

Where can I get a mouthguard made ?

Your dentist will be happy to make you a custom-made mouthguard which will fit your mouth exactly and protect your teeth and gums properly. Custom-made mouthguards can prevent damage to the jaw, neck and even the brain- helping to prevent the concussion and damage caused by a heavy blow.

How much will one cost ?

You cannot get a mouthguard on the NHS. Your dentist will be able to give you an estimate. When you consider the cost of dental work and repairs and the risk of missing teeth, a it is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

How long do custom made mouthguards last ?

Depending on your age, your mouthguard may need replacing fairly regularly.

If you are still growing, new teeth will come through and move into position. So the mouthguard may become too tight or loose, and will need to be remade to fit the growing person.

Adults may not need to have their mouthguards replaced quite so often. But they are like any other form of sports equipment and will suffer wear and tear. We recommend that you bring your mouthguard along with you to your routine check-up appointments so it can be checked.

What about home mouthguard kits ?

Mouthguards are made by taking an accurate impression of your mouth and making the mouthguard fit your own teeth. The dentist will register the way your jaws bite together to make sure the mouthguard meets properly with your teeth.

There are cheaper kit available which involve heating the product in hot water and then putting it in your mouth until it sets. But these mouthguards are not good because they fit badly and are uncomfortable to wear, they can fall out or even cause choking and the material is at its thinnest where it is needed most.

It is much better to have a professionally made mouthguard.

Can I get coloured mouthguards ?

There are many types of mouthguard including striped, multicoloured and clear.

Many people now have coloured mouthguards made in their favourite team’s colours or to match their own sports strip.