What is a mouthguard?

Mouthguards are essential for most high-impact sports such as football and rugby, as the level of contact leaves you at risk of causing permanent damage to your mouth and teeth. A mouthguard is often made from plastic or laminate and can be moulded to perfectly fit any mouth. 

Compared to a mouthguard bought at a sports shop, a mouthguard made professionally by your dentist will have a better fit, and will be more comfortable and less likely to fall out, making it more effective at protecting you. A good-quality mouthguard can also help protect your neck, jaw, and even your brain from damage. 

When might they help?

Oral trauma is a real risk in contact sports and can range from chipped teeth to entire tooth loss. Your coach may advise you to use a mouthguard, or it may even be a requirement for you to play. 

How do I maintain my mouthguard? Does it need replacing?

You will need to clean your mouthguard after every use by rinsing it clean and brushing it. Your dentist will guide you on how to care for your mouthguard. 

How often your mouthguard needs replacing depends on how much you use it, and the level of wear and tear. 

A teenager whose mouth is still growing will need to replace their mouthguard more regularly to ensure a good fit otherwise it will not offer the same level of protection.