Protecting Your Child’s Smile: The Importance of Mouthguards for Sport

By Dr Yana Itskovich, Specialist Orthodontist

As an orthodontist, one of my key priorities is helping patients protect their teeth and jaws—not only through braces or aligners, but also by preventing injuries before they occur. A well-made mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your child’s smile while they enjoy their favourite sports.

Why Are Mouthguards So Important for Sport?

If your child participates in any activity where there is a risk of contact or falls—such as football, rugby, AFL, hockey, basketball, netball, martial arts, or skateboarding—a properly fitted sports mouthguard is essential.
Dental injuries during sport can be traumatic, painful, and costly to repair. A professionally fitted mouthguard offers:

• Maximum shock absorption
• Protection against chipped or knocked-out teeth
• Reduced risk of jaw fractures and soft tissue injuries (lips, cheeks, tongue)
• Comfortable fit that won’t interfere with breathing or speech

Without adequate protection, even a minor impact can cause broken teeth, jaw injuries, or long-term dental problems. A custom-made mouthguard significantly reduces these risks and allows children to enjoy their sport with confidence.

Why Choose a Custom-Made Mouthguard?

While “boil and bite” guards from sports stores can seem like a convenient option—and are sometimes useful during active orthodontic treatment—they simply cannot match the fit, comfort, or level of protection provided by a custom-made mouthguard from your orthodontist or dentist.

Custom-made mouthguards are:

• Individually designed to fit your child’s teeth and bite
• Made from high-quality Briteguard material
• Comfortable and secure (and less likely to be left in the sports bag!)
• Available in a wide choice of colours and combinations
• Approved for use in high-impact sports

Unlike store-bought options, custom mouthguards allow easier breathing and clearer speech, meaning they can be worn comfortably during both training and games, when protection matters most.

Mouthguards During Orthodontic Treatment

If a custom-made mouthguard is not possible due to current orthodontic treatment (such as braces), we recommend using a good-quality “boil and bite” mouthguard—such as Elastoplast—during treatment. Our team is happy to assist in fitting the guard to ensure as much comfort and protection as possible while the teeth are still moving.

How Long Does It Take to Make a Custom Mouthguard?

At Camberwell Orthodontic Group, mouthguards are typically ready in approximately one week, no matter which colour or colour combination you choose.

How Much Does a Custom Mouthguard Cost?

Custom mouthguards at our practice are $170 (single or multiple colour design). Most private health funds provide a rebate for professionally made mouthguards under item code 151. We are happy to provide you with a quote to confirm your rebate with your health fund prior to ordering.

Mouthguards are an essential tool for protecting your child’s dental health and wellbeing while participating in sport. If you think your child could benefit from a mouthguard, we would be happy to assist.

Please contact us to arrange a consultation—our team will ensure your child receives a comfortable and protective solution, tailored to their needs.