Sports such as rugby league, AFL, boxing, and hockey carry a real risk of dental injury due to collisions, falls, and accidental blows to the face. Recreation activities are among the most common causes of dental injuries, making preventive protection, such as a mouthguard, an important part of playing safely.
If you’re looking for a trusted Townsville dentist, protecting your teeth before the season begins should be a priority. One of the most effective ways to reduce this risk is by wearing a custom-fitted sports mouthguard, which dentists design to absorb impact and protect the teeth, lips, and jaw during play.
What Happens If You Don’t Wear a Mouthguard?
Sports impacts to the face can lead to a range of dental and oral injuries, such as:
- Complete tooth loss (dental avulsion): High-impact collisions can knock a tooth completely out of its socket, and dentists note that the chances of saving the tooth depend heavily on receiving treatment quickly.
- Jaw joint stress and facial bone trauma: When force from a hit travels through the lower face, it can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or even contribute to jaw fractures in severe contact incidents.
- Deep cuts to the lips, cheeks, and gums: Teeth can be driven into surrounding soft tissues during a collision, leading to lacerations inside the mouth that may require stitches and professional care.
- Tooth fractures and structural damage: A direct blow during sport can cause dental injuries. Sometimes it exposes the inner pulp and requires restorative treatment such as bonding, crowns, or root canal therapy.
Without proper protection, even a single impact can lead to serious dental injuries such as broken teeth, soft-tissue damage, or jaw complications. In severe cases, you may need to visit a Townsville emergency dentist immediately to receive urgent care and prevent further complications.
Custom vs Store-Bought Mouthguards: Which Is Better?
Here’s a clear comparison to help you understand the differences between custom and store-bought mouthguards:
| Feature | Custom Mouthguards | Store‑Bought Mouthguards |
| Fit | Tailored to your exact teeth using impressions or 3D scans, giving a stable fit. | One-size-fits-most design often leaves gaps or shifts during activity. |
| Protection | Evenly distributes impact across teeth and gums, lowering the risk of fractures. | Uneven thickness can allow force to reach teeth and soft tissue. |
| Comfort | Smooth, contoured edges reduce pressure points, so it’s comfortable to wear for long periods. | Bulky or stiff materials can make it uncomfortable and awkward. |
| Breathing and Speaking | Designed to let you talk and breathe naturally, even during intense sport. | Poor fit often restricts airflow and makes talking harder. |
| Durability | Made from high-quality materials that last multiple seasons of sport. | Cheaper plastics wear down quickly and may need replacing often. |
| Coverage | Protects all teeth and the jaw consistently, including sensitive areas. | Limited coverage leaves some teeth and gums exposed. |
| Adaptability | It can be customised for braces, grinding habits, or specific sports. | As it has a generic design, it can’t adjust to unique dental needs. |
| Value Over Time | Higher upfront cost, but prevents injuries that could be costly to fix. | Low initial cost, but frequent replacements and injuries can add up. |
| Compliance | Comfortable fit encourages players to wear it every time they play. | Discomfort often leads to players taking it out or skipping it. |
| Performance | Lightweight, low-profile design keeps focus on the game, not the guard. | Bulkiness can distract, affecting performance and concentration. |
Are Mouthguards Only for Children?
Many people assume mouthguards are mainly for children playing school sports, but dental professionals say protection is important at any age. In fact, Australian dental organisations recommend that both adults and children wear a sports mouthguard when participating in activities where collisions, falls, or equipment contact may occur, as these situations can quickly lead to an emergency dental injury.
Beyond junior athletes, mouthguards are commonly recommended for:
- Adult athletes in contact sports
- Recreational players and weekend competitors
- Athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment
- People involved in high-speed activities such as skateboarding and mountain biking
How Much Does a Custom Mouthguard Cost in Townsville?
The cost of a custom mouthguard can vary depending on several clinical and design factors involved in creating a guard that fits properly. Dentists usually assess a range of elements before determining the most suitable option.
Some of the key factors that can influence a custom mouthguard include:
- Type of sport played
- Level of impact protection
- Material strength and thickness
- Dental impressions or 3D scans
- Number of protective layers
- Custom colour or design options
- Dental lab fabrication process
At Deeragun Dental, patients may also be able to use eligible private health fund benefits for their custom mouthguard, depending on their extras cover. Our team can help check your available benefits and guide you through the process.
Protect Your Smile Before the Next Game
A single collision, fall, or accidental elbow during sport can cause dental injuries that take months of treatment to repair. That’s why many dental organisations in Australia recommend wearing a professionally fitted mouthguard for contact and high-impact sports, as it helps absorb shock and reduce the risk of serious tooth and jaw injuries.
If you play sports regularly, visiting a dentist for custom mouthguards in Townsville can provide a level of comfort and protection that store-bought guards often cannot match. At Deeragun Dental, our team creates mouthguards designed specifically for your teeth and the type of sport you play.
Book your appointment today and protect your smile with a professionally fitted mouthguard.
FAQs
Do adults need mouthguards for sports?
Yes, adults are also recommended to wear a mouthguard when playing contact or high-impact sports. Dental injuries can occur at any age, especially in sports like rugby, hockey, basketball, or martial arts, where collisions and falls are common. A professionally fitted mouthguard from a dentist can provide more reliable protection during play.
Can a mouthguard prevent dental emergencies?
A mouthguard cannot prevent every injury, but it can significantly reduce the risk of serious dental trauma. Absorbing and distributing impact forces, it helps protect teeth, gums, and the jaw from direct blows.
How long does a sports mouthguard last?
A sports mouthguard can last several seasons if it is well cared for and still fits properly. However, it should be checked regularly, especially for growing children whose teeth and jaws change over time. Our dentist may recommend replacing it if it becomes loose, worn, or damaged.
What should I do if my mouthguard breaks?
If your mouthguard cracks, tears, or loses its shape, it’s best to stop using it and have it checked by a dentist. A damaged guard may not absorb impact properly and could reduce your level of protection. Your dentist can assess whether it can be adjusted or if a replacement is recommended.
Can I get a same-day mouthguard?
Some dental clinics may offer quicker turnaround times depending on the type of mouthguard and the appointment schedule. At Deeragun Dental, our team can take impressions or scans of your teeth and guide you through the process of getting a custom sports mouthguard designed for your needs.