Game on! Aussie childhood is full of action—whether it’s footy, cricket, netball, hockey, or martial arts, so many of us grow up playing hard. Getting amongst it builds confidence, teamwork, and resilience — but it also carries risks. One unlucky hit can damage a child’s teeth in ways that last far beyond the game.
That’s why a mouthguard should never be seen as “just optional gear.” According to the Australian Dental Association, a custom-fitted mouthguard can dramatically reduce the risk of serious dental injuries, helping protect your child’s smile while giving you peace of mind.
Why a chemist’s mouthguard won’t cut it
You’ve probably seen those “boil-and-bite” mouthguards at the chemist or sports shop. They’re cheap, easy to grab, and might seem fine at first. But most kids find them bulky and awkward—some even struggle to breathe or talk properly while wearing one. And let’s be honest, if it’s uncomfortable, it usually won’t stay in their mouth for long.
That’s where a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist makes all the difference. It’s shaped exactly to your child’s teeth and bite, so it:
- Fits snugly: No slipping or falling out mid-game.
- Feels comfortable: They can breathe and call out to teammates without hassle.
- Offers proper protection: Cushions teeth, gums, and jaw against hard knocks.
- Lasts longer: Much tougher than the chemist versions.
At the end of the day, a mouthguard only works if your child actually wears it. A custom fit means they’ll forget it’s even there—until it saves their smile.
Save more than teeth
Most parents rightly consider the protection mouthguards offer against chipped or broken teeth. But the benefits go well beyond that. A well-made, custom-fitted mouthguard can:
- Protect the jawbone – reducing the risk of breaks or fractures during heavy knocks.
- Shield the soft tissues – stopping painful cuts to the lips, cheeks, and tongue.
- Lower concussion risk – by absorbing some of the shock from hits to the face or jaw.
- Protect dental work – braces, fillings, and crowns are all safer with a snug mouthguard in place.
- Save money and stress – avoiding costly emergency dental visits and long recovery times.
The Australian Dental Association notes that every year, thousands of Aussies are treated for dental injuries that could have been avoided with a protective, custom-fitted mouthguard. Because it’s designed to absorb and spread the force of a blow, it helps shield not just teeth but the whole mouth and jaw from serious injury.
Protecting your child’s smile also means protecting their confidence. A front tooth injury can make kids hesitant to smile, laugh, or even get back out on the field. With the right mouthguard, they can play hard, stay safe, and keep that big Aussie grin.
No mouthguard, no play?
The simple rule is this: if there’s a chance of contact, your child should be wearing a mouthguard. It’s not just for the big, rough sports—plenty of games carry a risk of knocks and accidents.
- Contact sports: AFL, rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts.
- Ball sports: Basketball, soccer, netball, cricket—all can involve accidental elbows, falls, or fast-flying balls.
- Training and games: Mishaps don’t only happen on match day.
Got braces or orthodontic work? Then a custom-fitted mouthguard is even more important! It not only protects their teeth but also helps prevent damage to wires and brackets—saving you extra trips to the orthodontist.
Mouthguard maintenance for game-ready confidence
A good mouthguard is an investment in your child’s smile, so it’s worth taking care of it properly. The good news is, it only takes a few simple steps:
- Rinse it with cold water before and after each use.
- Store it safely in a firm, ventilated container—not loose in the sports bag.
- Keep it cool—don’t leave it in hot cars or direct sunlight, as heat can warp the shape.
- Bring it to dental visits so your dentist can check the fit.
Because kids are still growing, their teeth and jaws change quickly. That’s why most children need a new mouthguard each year, or sooner if they’ve had major dental changes like braces adjustments or new teeth coming through.
Keep your champ smiling strong
Every parent wants their kids to play with confidence, give it their all, and enjoy the mateship that comes with sport—without the worry of painful dental injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard is a simple way to protect their teeth, support their wellbeing, and save you the stress (and expense) of emergency dental visits down the track.
So, as the season gets underway, make sure your little champ’s smile is at least as protected as their shins or head. Book them in for a custom mouthguard fitting today—because when it comes to sport, the rule is simple: No Mouthguard, No Play.
* Australian Dental Association Queensland encourages the community to protect their smiles with custom-fitted mouthguards made by dental professionals
