Mouthguards

A mouthguard helps cushion a blow to the face that otherwise might result in an injury to the mouth or jaw. Injuries like this can lead to long and potentially expensive treatment to restore the teeth and mouth back to normal function and appearance. Mouthguards should be worn whilst playing and training for any sport that could involve contact to the face.

Types of Mouthguards

Custom-Fitted

• Made by your dentist and constructed directly from a mould taken of your teeth.
• Custom fitting allows for the dentist to accurately assess your mouth and provide the optimum protection for you.

Over-The-Counter or Boil and Bite

• The ADA and Standards Australia do not recommend the over the counter or boil and bite mouthguards.
• These are usually poor fitting and uncomfortable because they aren’t been specifically fitted to the shape of your mouth and teeth.
• This lessens their effectiveness and risks greater damage to teeth. However, it is far better than not wearing one at all.

Caring for your Mouthguard

• Rinse mouthguards in cold, soapy water after use.
• Update your mouthguard every 12 months to ensure it is fully effective.
• Keep your mouthguard clean, stored in a rigid container and away from heat to ensure it maintains its shape.

What to do if a Tooth is Knocked Out

• Remain calm, find the tooth, handle it by the crown only and ensure it’s clean. The crown is the smooth white part of the tooth that is normally visible in the mouth.
• If the root is dirty, gently suck the tooth or rinse it in milk or very briefly in water.
• Note: Gently sucking the tooth is not a suitable technique for children, adults who are unconscious, in shock, not fully calm or co-operative or lack understanding of what is happening.
• Immediately replant tooth in the socket (to maximise the chance of survival this should ideally not be delayed beyond 30 minutes)
• Hold tooth in place.
• If you are unable to replant the tooth, keep it moist by putting the tooth in a cup of milk, by sealing it in plastic wrap or placing it in the patient’s mouth next to the cheek, if the patient is able to do so.

Seek Immediate Dental Treatment – Time is Critical

DO NOT:

• Hold the tooth by the root surface
• Scrape or rub the root surface
• Let the tooth dry out
• Rinse or store the tooth in water for more than a second or two
• Remove any tissue fragments from the tooth