Don’t Let Footy Season Cost You a Tooth: Get a Custom Mouthguard in Yeronga
Custom mouthguards are one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth during contact sports. Footy season is in full swing, and players across Brisbane are already hitting the field for training and matches. With tackles, collisions, and unexpected falls, dental injuries can happen in seconds — but most are preventable.
A professionally fitted mouthguard cushions your teeth and jaw, reducing the risk of chips, fractures, or even knocked-out teeth. Getting fitted now ensures you’re protected for the remainder of the season and helps you play with confidence.
Why Dental Injuries Are Common in Contact Sports
Fast movement, collisions, and falls put your mouth at risk. Common sports-related dental injuries include:
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cuts to the lips or cheeks
- Jaw injuries
- Damage to braces or other dental work
A custom mouthguard absorbs impact, reducing the force that reaches your teeth and jaw. Wearing one is as essential as a helmet or shin guards for many players.
Who Needs a Mouthguard
Mouthguards aren’t just for professionals. Children, teenagers, and recreational players all benefit from wearing one during matches and training.
Benefits include:
- Reduced risk of dental trauma
- Protection for lips, cheeks, and tongue
- Cushioning for the jaw
- Protection for braces or retainers
For younger players, a single dental injury can lead to long-term treatment. A mouthguard is a simple, effective way to prevent this.
Common Concerns About Mouthguards
Some players avoid wearing a guard because they think it’s:
- Bulky or uncomfortable
- Difficult to breathe in
- Hard to talk with
These issues usually occur with poorly fitting store-bought guards. A custom mouthguard solves them by staying in place, allowing normal breathing, and providing comfort throughout games.
Custom Mouthguards vs Store-Bought Options
Mouthguards fall into three main types:
- Stock (ready-made)
- Boil-and-bite
- Custom-made by a dentist
Custom mouthguards are made from impressions or digital scans, so they fit precisely, absorb impact effectively, and are easier to wear. For a detailed comparison, you can also read our guide on choosing between custom and boil-and-bite mouthguards.
When to Get Fitted
Even mid-season, it’s not too late. Getting fitted now:
- Let’s you adjust to wearing it during training
- Ensures a secure, comfortable fit
- Replaces worn or ill-fitting guards
Children and teenagers may need new guards more often as their teeth and jaws develop. A loose or damaged guard won’t protect effectively.
Sports That Benefit from Mouthguards
While essential in rugby and AFL, mouthguards are recommended for any sport with contact or falls, including:
- Hockey
- Basketball
- Martial arts
- Skateboarding
- Mountain biking
Even low-contact sports can result in unexpected injuries. Wearing a guard lets you play confidently.
What Happens During a Custom Mouthguard Appointment
The process is simple:
- Impression or digital scan of your teeth
- Fabrication of the mouthguard to fit your bite
- Fitting and adjustment for comfort and security
A properly fitted mouthguard stays in place without constant biting and allows normal breathing and speech.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
Proper care keeps your guard effective:
- Rinse with cool water after use
- Brush it regularly
- Store in a ventilated case
- Avoid heat
- Bring it to dental visits for fit checks
Get a replacement mouthguard whenever it becomes misshapen or worn down.
FAQ – Custom Mouthguards and Sports Dental Care
Do kids really need a custom mouthguard for footy?
Yes. Children’s teeth are more vulnerable, and a well-fitted mouthguard protects teeth, lips, cheeks, and braces during contact sports.
Can I use a boil-and-bite guard instead?
Boil-and-bite guards provide some protection, but custom mouthguards fit better, stay in place, and are more comfortable.
How often should I replace a mouthguard?
Replace it if it becomes worn, distorted, or loose. Children may need new guards more often as their teeth and jaws develop.
Can I eat or drink with a mouthguard in?
It’s best to remove it for eating or drinking. Wearing it only during play and practice ensures it stays clean and effective.
How do I clean a custom mouthguard?
Rinse after use, brush gently with a toothbrush, and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid heat and bring it to your Yeronga dentist for regular fit checks.
My child is nervous about wearing a mouthguard — what should I do?
Let them try it during practice first, show how it protects their teeth, and praise them for wearing it. Comfort increases once they get used to it.
Stay in the Game with a Custom Mouthguard in Yeronga
Footy season should be about enjoying the game — not dealing with preventable dental injuries.
At Ria Family Dental, we provide custom sports mouthguards designed for comfort and protection during contact sports.
If you or your child needs a mouthguard this season, we welcome patients from Yeronga, Annerley, Moorooka, Fairfield, Yeerongpilly, and Tennyson.
Call us at 0451 359 356 or book online to arrange your custom mouthguard appointment.
Play hard, stay safe, and protect your teeth this footy season.
Visit us at 1/451B Fairfield Rd in Yeronga.