Footy Season is Here: 5 Reasons to Get a Custom Sports Mouthguard Before Your First Game

Footy season is finally here, and the excitement on the field is building. Every tackle, sprint, and jump carries the thrill of the game—but it also comes with risks, especially to your teeth and mouth. A stray elbow, accidental collision, or sudden fall can lead to chipped teeth, cuts to the gums, or other painful injuries.

The good news? Wearing a custom mouthguard can help safeguard your grin while you play. Designed to fit your teeth perfectly, these mouthguards provide comfort, security, and confidence so you can focus on playing your best this season.

Top Benefits of Wearing a Custom Mouthguard in Sports

1. Helps Reduce the Risk of Concussions

A mouthguard creates a cushioning layer between the upper and lower teeth, helping absorb and spread the force from impacts. By reducing the force transmitted through the jaw toward the skull, a properly fitted mouthguard may lower the risk of certain head and jaw injuries.

While it doesn’t eliminate the possibility of concussions, for athletes participating in contact sports, it provides an additional layer of protection.

2. Protects Teeth from Fractures and Breakage

Impacts during sports can easily chip, crack, or break teeth, often requiring restorative procedures such as dental crowns or veneers.

Custom mouthguards absorb shock and distribute impact across multiple teeth, providing reliable protection that generic mouthguards often cannot match.

3. Helps Prevent Soft Tissue Injuries

The lips, cheeks, and tongue are vulnerable during high-impact sports. Mouthguards act as a protective barrier, preventing cuts and bruises.

For athletes with braces, mouthguards are especially useful, as they reduce irritation from metal brackets and wires.

4. Helps Prevent Tooth Displacement or Knocked-Out Teeth

Beyond chips and cracks, sudden impacts can loosen or completely knock out teeth. A custom mouthguard cushions the teeth, reducing the risk of serious dental trauma and the need for emergency treatment.

5. Helps Protect the Jaw and Neck

Forceful impacts can stress the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. A custom mouthguard stabilises the jaw and absorbs shock, helping minimise strain and potential long-term issues during high-impact games.

Why Choose a Custom-Fitted Mouthguard Over Store-Bought Options?

Over-the-counter mouthguards are convenient and affordable, but they cannot match the fit and protection of a custom-made option.

Benefits of a custom mouthguard include:

• Personalised Fit: Made to match your teeth for comfort and protection.
• Better Breathing & Communication: Allows natural breathing and speaking while playing.
• Superior Durability: Built from strong materials to handle intense activity.
• Reliable Retention: Stays in place during games, reducing the risk of it falling out.

Who Should Wear a Custom Mouthguard?

Anyone playing sports where collisions, falls, or high-speed movements are possible can benefit from a mouthguard, including:

• Football and rugby
• Basketball and hockey
• Martial arts, boxing, and wrestling
• Skateboarding and cycling
• Gymnastics and other high-impact activities

Even casual or recreational players can benefit from the added protection a custom mouthguard provides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are custom mouthguards better than store-bought ones?

Yes. Custom mouthguards fit your teeth precisely, providing greater comfort, stability, and protection than generic options.

How long does a custom mouthguard last?

A custom mouthguard can last several years with proper care. A replacement may be needed sooner if it becomes worn or damaged, or if dental changes occur.

Can children wear custom mouthguards?

Yes. Children and teenagers can benefit, though replacements may be needed as their teeth and jaws develop.

How do you clean a mouthguard?

Clean your mouthguard regularly by rinsing it with cool water and using a soft brush with mild soap. Store it in a breathable case to prevent moisture buildup.

Do I need a mouthguard if I already wear braces?

Yes. Mouthguards protect both the braces and the soft tissues inside the mouth, reducing irritation and risk of injury.

Protect Your Smile with Custom Mouthguards in Belmont WA

Sports injuries can occur in an instant, but keeping your teeth safe doesn’t have to be complicated.

At Epsom Dental Care, we offer custom-made mouthguards to help protect your smile and support your long-term oral health.

Call us at (08) 9478 2349 or book your appointment online.

Visit us at 5/132 Epsom Ave in Belmont WA.