Genesis Dentists: Custom-Fitted Mouthguards for Sports Protection
Why Mouthguards Matter
Many Australians are passionate about sport — from footy and netball to skateboarding and cycling. But with the thrill of the game comes the risk of injury. Collisions, tumbles, or equipment mishaps can cause serious dental trauma — from chipped or knocked-out teeth to jaw fractures.
To reduce the risk of injury, it’s strongly recommended to wear a mouthguard every time you play or train. At Genesis Dentists, we offer custom-fitted sports mouthguards designed to provide maximum protection and comfort.
What Is a Mouthguard
A mouthguard is a thick, spongy shield that fits over your teeth to cushion and absorb impact to the face and jaw. While often used during sports, mouthguards can also help with jaw clenching, teeth grinding, snoring, or sleep apnoea.
There are two types of sports mouthguards:
🦷 Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
Designed and made by a dental professional.
Made from impressions of your teeth and gums.
Offers superior comfort, protection, and durability.
Stays firmly in place so you can talk and breathe easily.
Can be customised to your team colours.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Sold at pharmacies and sporting goods stores.
Softened in hot water and shaped to your mouth by biting down.
Less accurate fit, less comfortable, and offers minimal protection.
If you want maximum safety and a reliable fit, a custom-fitted mouthguard is the clear choice.
Who should wear mouthguards
At Genesis Dentists, we recommend that all players aged 6 and up wear a sports mouthguard during both games and training sessions. Whether your child plays a high-contact sport like football, rugby, or hockey, or a lower-contact sport such as basketball, cricket, or netball, the risk of dental injury is real.
Injuries aren’t limited by the type of sport — even a minor fall or accidental elbow can cause significant damage to teeth and gums.
That’s why the Australian Dental Association (ADA) strongly recommends using a custom-fitted sports mouthguard over an off-the-shelf, pharmacy-bought version. Custom mouthguards provide a secure fit, superior comfort, and optimal protection tailored specifically to your teeth and jaw.
Mouthguards for kids
Many children experience dental injuries while playing sports.
If your child is reluctant to wear a mouthguard, it can help to highlight their favourite sports idols who use one. Most major sports have well-known athletes who wear mouthguards for protection. For instance, LeBron James and many other NBA stars are often seen wearing them during games.
Mouthguards are effective at preventing dental injuries at any age, which is why it’s important for athletes—young and old alike—to consider wearing a custom-fit mouthguard for safe play.
How to care for your mouthguard
After using your mouthguard, rinse it with soap and warm water, then let it air-dry completely. You can also occasionally disinfect it using a mouthwash to keep it clean and fresh. When not in use, store it in a ventilated plastic container in a cool, dry place to maintain its shape and hygiene.
Most importantly, always remember to take your mouthguard home after your game or training session. Leaving it in a hot environment, such as a car, can warp the material and ruin its fit—making it ineffective for protection.
Mouthguard Maintenance: Spotting Signs of Damage
It’s important to ensure your mouthguard is in good condition. During your regular dental check-up, ask your dental professional to inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the mouthguard has been impacted during play, it may need to be replaced to maintain full protection.
If the mouthguard remains in excellent condition and you haven’t had major dental work like restorations, it can last for several years. For children, however, mouthguards typically need to be replaced every 12 to 18 months due to growth and changes in their teeth.
If your mouthguard becomes uncomfortable or no longer fits properly, be sure to visit Genesis Dentists for an evaluation.
Custom mouthguard FAQ
What is the average price of a sports custom mouthguard?
The average price of a custom-fit sports mouthguard at Genesis Dentists varies depending on factors such as materials used and customization preferences. Generally, our mouthguard prices start at $240. Some Private Health Insurance providers, including Medibank and Bupa, may cover the cost of a custom-fit sports mouthguard. It’s a good idea to check with your Health Fund provider regarding your specific policy. At Genesis Dentists, we are committed to offering affordable options without compromising on quality. During your consultation, our experienced dental team will assess your requirements and provide a clear, accurate estimate. Optional features like team logos or personalised designs may influence the overall cost. Choosing a custom-made sports mouthguard is a smart investment, helping to protect your teeth during contact sports and potentially avoiding costly dental treatments down the track. Please contact our Melbourne dental clinics to learn more or to book a consultation.
Which type of sports mouth guard is most effective?
When it comes to protection, custom-fit sports mouthguards are widely regarded as the most effective option. At Genesis Dentists, our custom mouthguards are tailored specifically to fit your mouth, offering excellent fit, comfort, and superior protection. This personalized design ensures maximum coverage and cushioning, significantly lowering the risk of dental injuries during sports and physical activities. Custom mouthguards also allow for easy breathing and clear speaking, which helps maintain your focus and performance. While store-bought or boil-and-bite mouthguards offer basic protection, they often lack the precise fit and individual customization of a professionally made option. For the highest level of safety and comfort, we strongly recommend choosing a custom-fit sports mouthguard.
Do custom mouthguards work in sports?
Yes, mouthguards act as a vital protective barrier for your teeth, gums, and jaw during sports activities. They help absorb and distribute the impact of blows, reducing the risk of dental injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, tooth loss, and soft tissue damage, while also lowering the chances of jaw fractures and concussion. Additionally, mouthguards help stabilize the jaw joint and protect orthodontic appliances like braces from harm. By wearing a properly custom-fitted mouthguard, athletes and contact sports enthusiasts can greatly reduce the risk of dental trauma and effectively safeguard their oral health.
How long do dental mouthguards last?
The lifespan of a dental mouthguard depends on how frequently it’s used, the intensity of sports activities, and how well it’s cared for.
Generally, a properly maintained mouthguard can last anywhere from one to three years. It’s important to regularly inspect it for signs of wear such as thinning, holes, or warping. If you notice any damage or if the mouthguard no longer fits properly, replacing it promptly is essential to ensure continued protection.
Changes in teeth due to growth or dental treatments may also mean it’s time for a new mouthguard to maintain a proper fit. When in doubt, please consult your dentist at Genesis Dentists for advice.
What sports need mouthguards?
At Genesis Dentists, we recommend using custom-fit sports mouthguards for the following sports:
– Football
– Cricket
– Baseball
– Basketball
– Netball
– Hockey
– Ice Hockey
– Softball
– Water Polo
– Gymnastics
These contact sports involve different levels of physical contact and carry a risk of dental injuries, making a custom-fit sports mouthguard essential to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw during play. Wearing a custom-fit mouthguard lets you enjoy these sports with confidence, knowing your oral health is well protected.