Protect Your Teeth on the Field - Why Every Athlete Needs a Mouthguard
Whether you’re on the rugby field, in the boxing ring, or just shooting hoops, one hit to the face can lead to a lifetime of dental issues.
Mouthguards are a simple, affordable way to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw during contact or collision sports. At Avonhead Dental, we often see dental injuries that could have been prevented with the right protection. That’s why we strongly recommend a custom-fit mouthguard for any sport where there’s risk of contact.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible device that fits over your upper teeth and helps absorb and distribute impact from a blow to the face. It protects your:
• Teeth
• Gums
• Cheeks and lips
• Jawbone
• Braces or dental work (if present)
The New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) and ACC both recommend the use of mouthguards for players of all contact sports, including rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts, netball, and basketball.
Why You Should Wear a Mouthguard
Here are just a few reasons:
• Prevent broken or knocked-out teeth
• Avoid lip and tongue injuries
• Reduce the risk of jaw fractures and concussion
• Save on costly emergency dental treatment
• Protect orthodontic work like braces or implants
A mouthguard is a small investment that can save you thousands in dental repairs.
Types of Mouthguards (And Which One to Choose)
Not all mouthguards are created equal:
1. Custom-Fit Mouthguards (Best Protection)
• Made by your dentist
• Precisely fitted to your teeth and jaw
• Comfortable, secure, and breathable
• Recommended for all ages and sports
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards (Store-Bought Option)
• Available at pharmacies or sports stores
• Moulded at home using hot water
• Offers basic protection, but fit and comfort can vary
3. Stock Mouthguards (Least Effective)
• One-size-fits-all
• Can be bulky and uncomfortable
• Often fall out or restrict breathing
• Not recommended for regular use
The Risk of Not Wearing a Mouthguard
Knocked-out teeth, fractured jaws, deep cuts, we’ve seen it all. Sports injuries are one of the leading causes of dental trauma in children and young adults in New Zealand. The ACC reports that thousands of dental claims are made each year due to sports-related incidents - many of which could have been prevented with a mouthguard.
Remember: If a permanent tooth is knocked out, it may never fully recover even if it's replanted.
Who Needs a Mouthguard?
If you or your child plays any of the following, a mouthguard is a must:
• Rugby or League
• Hockey or Ice Hockey
• Boxing or MMA
• Netball
• Basketball
• Skateboarding or BMX
• Martial arts, Karate, Jiu-jitsu
• Any activity with falls, collisions, or flying balls
Avonhead Dental’s Recommendation
We recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for all regular sports players, especially children, teens, and anyone in a contact sport. They provide superior comfort and protection, meaning you're more likely to wear them every game.
Book a fitting before the season starts, and make it part of your gear, just like boots or shin guards.