Toowoomba Mouthguards: Custom-Made for Athletes

Not all mouthguards are created equal

When it comes to protecting your teeth during sports, not all mouthguards are created equal. Dr. Anish, a leading dentist at Middle Ridge Family Dental, emphasises the critical role that custom-made mouthguards play in safeguarding athletes from severe dental and facial injuries. Whether you’re playing rugby, basketball, or even cycling, a well-fitted mouthguard is your best defence against trauma.

Here, Dr. Anish shares his expert insights on why these dental appliances are essential and how they’re tailored to each athlete’s unique needs.

\Why Custom-Made Mouthguards Are Essential

According to Dr. Anish, a properly fitted mouthguard can make all the difference when it comes to preventing serious injuries. "Custom-made mouthguards are essential for anyone involved in contact sports or activities with a risk of injury to the face and jaw," he explains. While over-the-counter options exist, they simply don’t offer the same level of protection or comfort.

A key benefit of custom mouthguards is their snug fit, which ensures the appliance stays in place during intense activity. “A properly fitted mouthguard can help prevent serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue damage,” Dr. Anish notes. Over-the-counter mouthguards, often boil-and-bite models, can’t match this precision, leading to discomfort and insufficient protection.

The Risks of Not Using a Custom Mouthguard

Athletes who opt for generic mouthguards—or worse, skip them altogether—put themselves at increased risk. Dr. Anish often treats patients with dental injuries that could have been prevented. "Without a well-fitted mouthguard, athletes are at a higher risk of dental trauma. We often see chipped or knocked-out teeth, cuts inside the mouth, and sometimes even concussions from impacts that could have been cushioned by a mouthguard," he explains.

Besides protection, custom mouthguards offer greater comfort, allowing athletes to breathe and speak more easily during games. Poorly fitted alternatives, however, can make these basic functions difficult, discouraging athletes from wearing them consistently.

The Process of Getting a Custom-Made Mouthguard

At Middle Ridge Family Dental, the process of obtaining a custom mouthguard is straightforward yet highly tailored. Dr. Anish and his team start with a detailed assessment, taking impressions of the patient’s teeth. "These impressions are then used to create a mouthguard that perfectly fits their mouth, ensuring optimal protection," he explains. The customisation process also takes into account the athlete’s sport. "Different activities may require different thicknesses or designs for the mouthguard," Dr. Anish adds, highlighting that a rugby player may need a more robust design compared to a basketball player.

Types of Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards are not one-size-fits-all, and Middle Ridge Family Dental offers a variety of options depending on the sport and specific needs. "For higher-impact sports like rugby or AFL, thicker, more durable mouthguards are necessary," Dr. Anish says. Athletes with braces or other dental appliances can also receive specialised designs that protect both their teeth and braces during play.

The Role of Advanced Technology

One standout feature of Middle Ridge Family Dental’s approach is its use of modern technology. "We use advanced 3D imaging and digital scanning technology to take precise impressions of the patient’s teeth," Dr. Anish explains. This not only enhances the accuracy of the fit but also makes the process faster. The result is a mouthguard that maximises both comfort and protection, setting it apart from traditional methods that rely on physical moulds.

How Often Should Mouthguards Be Replaced?

Custom mouthguards, while durable, aren’t meant to last forever. Athletes should plan to replace them at least once a year. "It’s recommended that athletes replace their mouthguards at least once a year or sooner if the mouthguard becomes worn or if their teeth shift due to growth or dental work," Dr. Anish advises. For younger athletes, frequent replacements are crucial since their mouths are still developing. Middle Ridge Family Dental also encourages follow-up visits to ensure the mouthguard continues to fit properly over time.

Common Misconceptions About Mouthguards

There are a few common myths surrounding mouthguards, one being that they’re only necessary for high-contact sports. Dr. Anish is quick to clarify: "Mouthguards aren’t just for rugby or boxing. Any sport with potential for facial contact, like basketball or even cycling, can benefit from wearing a mouthguard." Another misconception is that all mouthguards provide the same level of protection. Unfortunately, over-the-counter versions simply can’t match the customised fit and security offered by a dentist-made mouthguard.

Prevention Over Treatment

As a parting thought, Dr. Anish emphasises the importance of preventive care. "Prevention is always better than dealing with dental injuries after they happen. A good mouthguard is a small investment compared to the cost and pain of dental repairs." His advice to all athletes is simple: wear a mouthguard, even if the risk of injury seems low. The benefits of custom-made protection far outweigh the potential consequences of going without.