Sports Mouthguards
Injuries sustained playing sport is the number one reason for people damaging their teeth. We can fit you with a custom-made mouthguard constructed from an impression taken of your mouth so your mouthguard fits well and provides the best protection possible.
A custom sports mouth guard that fits snugly will provide better protection and without the bulk of a pre-made guard. They’re also more resilient and comfortable to wear giving you the confidence to go out and play your best.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A custom mouthguard is made from an impression or scan of your actual teeth, so it fits snugly, stays in place during play, and provides far better impact protection. Boil-and-bite guards are bulkier, often loose, and can be hard to breathe and talk through. Given that sports injuries are the leading cause of tooth damage in New Zealand, the upgrade in protection is well worth it for any contact sport.
The process starts with an impression or intraoral scan of your teeth, which is used to fabricate a guard that matches the exact shape of your bite. The guard is then trimmed and finished for comfort. The whole process usually takes a couple of appointments and a week or two between them.
For adults, a well-made custom mouthguard typically lasts two to three seasons with regular use. For children and teenagers, replacements are usually needed every season or two because their teeth and jaws are still developing. If your guard becomes loose, cracked, or worn through, replace it — a damaged guard offers little protection.
Yes, and they should. Children’s teeth are at particular risk during sport because they’re still developing, and a knocked-out adult tooth in a young player is a lifelong issue. Custom guards can be made for children — they’ll just need replacing more often as the mouth grows. Many parents find the cost over a season is far less than dealing with a single sports-related dental injury.
Rinse it in cold water after every use (hot water can warp it), brush it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap, and store it in a ventilated case — never in your sports bag wrapped in a sweaty sock. Bring it along to dental check-ups so your dentist or denturist can check it for wear and damage.