If you want to ensure your child’s teeth are protected while playing sports it’s advisable they wear a well-fitted mouth guard.

Mouth guards are a “must have”

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends all parents include mouth guards on the list of ‘must have’ items to keep in their child’s sports bags.

“Many kids understand the need to wear a mouth guard for winter sports such as football and hockey but many people don’t consider them for summer sports”

Dr Karin Alexander, President of the Australian Dental Association.

“Children who do not wear a custom-fitted mouth guard while playing sport are at risk for damaged and dislodged teeth, broken jaws and cut lips, causing painful, expensive and disfiguring dental injuries.

Playing sports such as basketball or cricket carry just as much risk of injury to the mouth or face, so dentists recommend wearing a mouth guard during training and game time.”

Australian Dental Association Recommends Custom Mouth Guards

The ADA recommends wearing a custom-fitted mouth guard that is properly fitted by a dentist, to ensure maximum protection against dental and facial injuries.

The ADA does not recommend over-the-counter or ‘boil and bite’ mouth guards as they offer little or no protection to your teeth and mouth.