Playing sports is a great way for teens and adults alike to stay fit and have fun, but it can also come with risks, especially to your teeth. Whether you're on the football field, in the boxing ring, or skateboarding at the local park, dental injuries are a real concern. At Maroubra Dental Clinic, Dr. Joe Wang emphasises the importance of protecting your smile during physical activities with custom mouthguards.
"It's crucial to protect teeth during sports because many activities, especially contact sports, increase the risk of dental injuries," says Dr. Wang. "Without proper protection, athletes can face serious dental trauma like chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth."
From chipped and fractured teeth to serious injuries like teeth being knocked out, the risks for athletes can be significant. Many of these injuries happen in an instant—during a fall, collision, or unexpected blow to the face.
“The most common injuries we see are chipped or fractured teeth, especially the front ones,” Dr. Wang explains. “In severe cases, teeth can be knocked out completely, which is a dental emergency.”
Facial injuries can be painful, costly to treat, and may have long-term impacts on your smile. For athletes, it’s critical to not only play their best but to protect their dental health while they do.
Mouthguards are a crucial tool for preventing dental injuries, but not all mouthguards are created equal. While store-bought mouthguards are readily available, Dr. Wang advocates for custom-fitted options.
“The best way to protect your teeth is to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard,” he says. “These are made specifically for the athlete’s mouth, offering the best fit and protection.”
The process at Maroubra Dental Clinic is quick and easy. The clinic uses a 3D photo process to create a detailed image of the patient's teeth. Unlike traditional methods that use messy impressions, Maroubra Dental Clinic uses advanced 3D photo technology to take a digital image of the patient’s mouth. This state-of-the-art process ensures a more precise and comfortable fit without the discomfort of traditional moulds.
“We take a digital scan, which is faster and more accurate than traditional impressions,” Dr. Wang explains. The custom mouthguard is then crafted from this scan to ensure a perfect fit, providing full coverage and comfort.
One of the most common misconceptions Dr. Wang encounters is the belief that only contact sports like rugby or football require mouthguards. In reality, many physical activities pose risks to dental health.
“A common misconception is that only contact sports require mouthguards,” Dr. Wang notes. “In reality, anyone engaging in physical activity with a risk of falls or collisions should wear one.” This includes sports like skateboarding, cycling, and even gymnastics.
Another misconception is that store-bought mouthguards are as effective as custom-fitted ones. While off-the-shelf options may seem convenient, they often don’t fit as securely, reducing their protective capabilities.
For athletes who feel restricted by traditional mouthguards, there are options for slimmer, custom-fitted designs. These lower-profile mouthguards still offer protection but with a slightly reduced bulk. Dr. Wang provides these alternatives for athletes looking for a balance between comfort and safety.
“Some patients prefer slimmer mouthguards,” says Dr. Wang. “These are still custom-fitted but offer a lower profile, making them more appealing to athletes who feel restricted by bulkier versions.”
At Maroubra Dental Clinic, affordability is a priority. Dr. Wang and his team understand that protecting your smile shouldn’t come with a heavy financial burden.
“We offer flexible payment plans and work with various insurance providers to minimise out-of-pocket costs,” Dr. Wang explains. The clinic also provides discounts for families with multiple athletes, ensuring that everyone can access the protection they need.
Maroubra Dental Clinic isn’t just about providing custom mouthguards; they focus on patient education and ongoing support.
“We don’t just provide mouthguards; we also teach our patients how to properly care for them and ensure they’re replacing them when needed,” Dr. Wang shares. This commitment to the local sporting community is what makes the clinic a trusted resource for athletes of all ages.
In addition to wearing mouthguards, Dr. Wang emphasises the importance of regular dental check-ups for athletes. Sports can put additional wear and tear on teeth, especially for those who grind or clench during play.
“Regular visits help us monitor their overall dental health and ensure their protective gear is still functioning properly,” Dr. Wang adds.