What is custom fitted mouthguard?

A custom fitted mouthguard is a dental device made of flexible, impact-absorbing material that is made to fit your teeth and jaw precisely. It is created by your dentist using an impression or digital scan of your mouth, so it sits snugly and comfortably over your teeth.

Why do I need a mouthguard?

A mouthguard absorbs shock and reduces the force to your teeth, jaw, lips, cheeks and tongue when you take a hit or fall. It is essential for preventing dental and facial injuries during contact and collision sports. Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard every time you play or train will significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries.

What injuries can a mouthguard help prevent?

A mouthguard can help protect against: Chipped, fractured or broken teeth Knocked-out teeth Cuts to the lips, gums, cheeks and tongue Jaw fractures and broken jaw Soft-tissue injuries from braces or dental appliances Some reduction in the risk of concussions and neck/jaw injuries by cushioning impact and stabilising the jaw.

Who should wear a sports mouthguard?

Anyone playing sports or activities where there is a risk of collision, falls or contact with equipment should wear a mouthguard.

This includes: Football, rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts Basketball, netball, soccer, cricket Skateboarding, surfing, cycling, scooter riding, water polo, wrestling and many more.

Custom mouthguards are made for both adults and children at Heritage Dental Group.

What are the advantages of custom-made mouthguards?

Custom-made mouthguards provide:

Better fit: Made specifically for your teeth and jaw, so they fit snugly and stay in place

Superior protection: More effective at reducing injuries than stock or boil-and-bite options

Greater comfort: Easier to breathe and speak in, so you can focus on your sport

Durability: Long-lasting if cared for properly

Custom colours: You can choose colours, including team colours

Health fund rebates: Most private health funds provide a rebate for custom mouthguards, but not for store-bought ones.

How are custom fitted mouthguards made?

Custom fitted mouthguards are made by your dentist. We take an impression or digital scan of your teeth, then a mouthguard is crafted to match the exact shape of your mouth. This ensures a close fit, comfort and the best cushioning (shock absorption) effect.

How does a custom mouthguard compare to boil-and-bite or stock mouthguards?

Custom-fitted mouthguards: Made by your dentist to fit your teeth precisely. They provide the best protection, comfort and retention. Recommended by dentists.

Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Self-moulded by immersing in hot water and biting in. They often don’t fit properly, can be uncomfortable and may be loose. Usually replaced each season.

Stock mouthguards: Ready-to-wear, pre-formed options. They are the least expensive but also offer the least protection, fit poorly and are often uncomfortable.

How much does a custom fitted mouthguard cost at Heritage Dental Group?

A custom fitted mouthguard at Heritage Dental Group costs $230. This is often more cost-effective than dealing with the pain, time off work/school and expensive treatment that can result from a dental injury.

Do you make mouthguards for children and adults at Heritage Dental Group?

Yes, we make custom sports mouthguards in Indooroopilly. At Heritage Dental Group, we make mouthguards for adults and children. Children may need to replace their mouthguard every 12–18 months because they lose baby teeth and adult teeth erupt, which can change the fit. Always encourage kids to wear it and explain the benefits for contact sports and training.

When should I wear my mouthguard?

You should wear your mouthguard at all times during:

Games and matches

Training sessions

Practice drills

Any sport or activity where there is a risk of facial injury.

How do I look after my mouthguard?

To keep your mouthguard in good condition:

Rinse it with warm soapy water after each use and let it air-dry before storing

Avoid hot water, which can distort the mouthguard

Store it in a ventilated plastic container with holes for air circulation

Do not leave it in a hot car, in direct sunlight or in a glove box, as heat can change its shape

Check it regularly for signs of wear or damage

Bring it to your dental check-ups so your dentist can inspect it

How often should I replace my mouthguard?

Children: Every 12–18 months, or sooner if it no longer fits well due to growth or new teeth

Adults: Generally lasts a couple of years or longer if well cared for. Replace after dental treatment, restorations or tooth loss, or if it no longer fits properly

What if I have braces or other dental appliances?

Players undergoing orthodontic treatment can have a custom-fitted mouthguard made by their dentist to fit comfortably and accurately over braces. This protects both the teeth and the orthodontic appliances from impact.

Will I be able to breathe and speak normally with a custom mouthguard?

Yes. A well-made custom mouthguard should:

Be comfortable yet tight-fitting

Allow normal breathing and swallowing

Allow normal speech

Not cause gagging

What if my mouthguard feels uncomfortable or doesn’t fit well?

If your mouthguard starts to feel uncomfortable, loose, or doesn’t fit properly, see your dentist at Heritage Dental Group. A poor fit can reduce protection and comfort. Your dentist can adjust or remake the mouthguard as needed.

Can a mouthguard help reduce the risk of concussions?

Custom mouthguards may help reduce the risk of concussions by providing a cushion between the upper and lower teeth and stabilising the jaw, which can decrease the force transmitted to the skull and brain. While they are not a guarantee against concussions, they provide additional protection as part of a broader safety approach.