It’s easy to take some things for granted until they are suddenly gone. Imagine what it would feel like if you lost one or more of your front teeth. Smiling, talking or eating would all probably be uncomfortable. Every year thousands of people, including children, teens and adults are treated for dental injuries that could have been avoided or minimised by wearing a protective, custom-fitted mouthguard.

Mouthguard Fact Sheet

The Australian Dental Association strongly recommends the use of a mouthguard in any sport or activity where collision or contact is likely, both during games and training. Some sports for which you may need a mouthguard include AFL, basketball, boxing, cycling, football, hockey, martial arts, netball, rugby, skiing, soccer and squash. ‘Play it safe’ and wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth. An investment in  custom-fitted mouthguards could save you from injury and costly treatment.

Types of mouthguards

There are many types of mouthguards available in Australia, ranging from cheap, over-the-counter types to a professionally custom-fitted mouthguard. Over-the-counter mouthguards do not provide enough protection against injuries to your teeth, mouth or jaw.

Custom-fitted mouthguard

At Putney Dental Surgery we can create a custom-fitted mouthguards designed specifically to your mouth and your sport. Our custom designed mouthguards offer far better protection and comfort over alternatives such as off the counter or ready to use mouthguard. This is because our sports mouthguard are made to accommodate your unique bite, and can be designed to accommodate your individual needs (such as leaving adequate room for changes in your dentition whilst growing or undergoing orthodontic work).

How to care for your mouthguard

• Rinse in cold water after use Store in a rigid plastic container
• Keep out of direct sunlight – mouthguard will change shape in high temperatures
• Occasionally rinse your mouthguard in a mouthwash
• Have your mouthguard assessed by your dentist at your regular dental check-up
• Replace your mouthguard if it gets damaged

First-Aid

If a tooth is knocked out in a collision or fall, the correct first aid may save the tooth.

Retrieve the tooth, rinse it in milk and place it back in the mouth. Do not rinse the tooth with water. Alternatively wrap the tooth in plastic wrap (glad wrap) to prevent it drying out. The quicker the tooth is put back in place, the more chance it has of survival. Go immediately to your dentist. Note: Do not put baby teeth back in place; it may damage the permanent tooth growing underneath. Immediately seek dental treatment for any damaged teeth – time is critical to prevent permanent damage.

Contact us today at Putney Dental Surgery for your custom-fitted mouthguards.

Receive a free oral checkup and a 10% discount off the cost of your mouthguard.

www.putneydentalsurgery.com.au

Booking On-Line now Available

References:

1. The Academy for Sports Dentistry. Farmersville, Illinois 62533
2. JADA Vol. 135, July 2004
3. Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene Nov – Dec 2005, VOL. 39, NO. 6