Mouthgaurds

Mouthguards are protective devices worn over the teeth to prevent injury during sports activities, protect against teeth grinding (bruxism), and reduce the risk of dental trauma.

At Payneham Road Dental Centre and North Terrace Dental Centre in Adelaide, we offer custom-made mouthguards designed to provide optimal protection and comfort for both children and adults.

Types of Mouthguards

  • Sports Mouthguards: These are designed to protect the teeth, gums, and jaw during physical activities and sports. They are particularly important for contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and martial arts, but are also beneficial for non-contact sports where accidental falls or collisions may occur.
  • Night Guards: Also known as nocturnal bite plates or occlusal splints, night guards are used to prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. They help alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism, such as jaw pain, headaches, and worn-down teeth.
  • Orthodontic Mouthguards: These are specially designed for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment. They provide protection for both the teeth and braces, ensuring that brackets and wires do not cause injury to the mouth.

Benefits of Custom-Made Mouthguards

  • Optimal Fit and Comfort: Custom-made mouthguards are tailored to fit the unique contours of your teeth and mouth, providing superior comfort and protection compared to over-the-counter options.
  • Enhanced Protection: A properly fitted mouthguard offers better shock absorption, reducing the risk of dental injuries, such as chipped or broken teeth, lip and tongue injuries, and jaw fractures.
  • Durability: Custom-made mouthguards are crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring they are durable and long-lasting, even with regular use.
  • Breathing and Speaking: Custom mouthguards are designed to allow for easy breathing and speaking, making them more comfortable to wear during sports and other activities.

How are Custom Mouthguards Made?

At Payneham Road Dental Centre and North Terrace Dental Centre, the process of creating a custom mouthguard involves several steps:

  1. Initial Consultation: During your initial visit, our dentists will evaluate your needs and discuss the best type of mouthguard for your specific situation, whether for sports, bruxism, or orthodontic protection.
  2. Impression Taking: An impression of your teeth will be taken using a dental mold. This ensures that the mouthguard will fit precisely and comfortably over your teeth.
  3. Fabrication: The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians craft your custom mouthguard using high-quality materials. This process typically takes a couple of weeks.
  4. Fitting and Adjustments: Once your custom mouthguard is ready, you will return for a fitting appointment. Our dentists will ensure the mouthguard fits properly and make any necessary adjustments to enhance comfort and protection.

Caring for Your Mouthguard

Proper care and maintenance of your mouthguard are essential to ensure its longevity and effectiveness:

  • Cleaning: Rinse your mouthguard with cold water or a mouth rinse before and after each use. Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material.
  • Storage: Store your mouthguard in a sturdy, ventilated container to protect it from damage and allow it to air out. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot environments.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Bring your mouthguard to your regular dental check-ups at Payneham Road Dental Centre and North Terrace Dental Centre. Our dentists will check for wear and tear and ensure it remains in good condition.

Book an Appointment Online or by Phone

Payneham Road On (08) 8363 2025

North Terrace On (08) 8223 5862

frequently asked Mouthgaurd questions

Below our the questions and answers we get asked the most about Mouthgaurds in our two Adelaide dental clinics.

Wearing a mouthguard during sports helps protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury. It absorbs and distributes the force of impacts, reducing the risk of chipped or broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and jaw fractures. Sports mouthguards are especially important for contact sports but are beneficial for any activity where there is a risk of falls or collisions.

Common signs of teeth grinding (bruxism) include waking up with a sore jaw, headaches, or tooth pain, as well as visible wear on your teeth. If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth at night, schedule an appointment at Payneham Road Dental Centre or North Terrace Dental Centre. Our dentists can evaluate your symptoms and determine if a night guard is necessary to protect your teeth and alleviate discomfort.

While store-bought mouthguards are readily available and less expensive, they often do not provide the same level of comfort, fit, and protection as custom-made mouthguards. Over-the-counter options can be bulky, uncomfortable, and may not stay in place during use. Custom-made mouthguards are tailored to fit your mouth precisely, offering superior protection and comfort.

The lifespan of a mouthguard depends on its use and care. Sports mouthguards may need to be replaced every season or sooner if they show signs of wear or damage. Night guards typically last several years but should be replaced if they become worn down or no longer fit properly. Regular check-ups at Payneham Road Dental Centre and North Terrace Dental Centre will help determine when it’s time for a replacement.

Yes, children can and should wear mouthguards during sports and activities that pose a risk of dental injury. Custom-made mouthguards are especially beneficial for children as they provide a comfortable fit and superior protection. As children grow and their teeth develop, it’s important to have their mouthguards regularly checked and replaced as needed to ensure they continue to fit properly.

need help? get in touch

Two clinics across Adelaide

PAYNEHAM ROAD

(08) 8363 2025

NORTH TERRACE

(08) 8223 5862

need help? get in touch

Two clinics across Adelaide

PAYNEHAM ROAD

(08) 8363 2025

NORTH TERRACE

(08) 8223 5862