Mouthguards
Custom Mouthguards in Bundoora
Protecting Your Smile from Trauma and Grinding
Your teeth are essential, yet highly vulnerable to damage from contact sports and nighttime grinding (bruxism). At Diamond Dental Bundoora, we create precision Custom Mouthguards designed to provide superior protection, comfort, and security, whether you’re on the field or asleep in bed.
Don’t rely on generic, ill-fitting store-bought options. A professionally fitted mouthguard is the gold standard recommended by the Australian Dental Association (ADA) to safeguard your smile.
Understanding the Need for Custom Protection
We offer two primary types of custom-fitted oral appliances, each tailored for a specific protective need:
1. Sports Mouthguards
For anyone participating in activities where there is a risk of contact—whether from opponents, balls, or the ground—a sports mouthguard is non-negotiable.
- Key Function: Absorbs and distributes the force of impact, significantly reducing the risk of injuries like chipped, fractured, or knocked-out teeth, as well as minimising damage to the jaw, lips, and soft tissues.
- Recommended Sports: We recommend custom mouthguards for all contact and high-impact sports, including AFL, Rugby, Hockey, Basketball, Soccer, Netball, Martial Arts, and Skateboarding. Protection is required during both games and training.
2. Night Guards (Occlusal Splints)
These are specifically designed for patients who clench or grind their teeth (bruxism) during sleep.
- Key Function: Creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing wear, fractures, and damage caused by grinding pressure. They also help alleviate associated symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and tooth sensitivity.
Custom-Fitted vs. Boil-and-Bite
When supervised by a dental professional, teeth whitening is entirely safe. Our dentists assess your oral health first (checking for cavities or gum disease) and ensure the correct concentration of gel is used, protecting your gums and managing sensitivity.
Feature | Custom-Fitted Mouthguard | Boil-and-Bite/Generic |
Fit & Security | Precision moulded to your exact bite, fitting securely around each tooth. | One-size-fits-most; often loose and can fall out during impact. |
Protection | Provides optimal, uniform thickness and shock absorption. | Material is often thinner and can be bitten through, offering minimal protection. |
Comfort | Allows for natural breathing and speech without hindering performance. | Can be bulky, uncomfortable, and may restrict breathing or speech. |
Durability | Made from high-quality, durable materials, lasting longer than generic guards. | Loses shape and wears down quickly due to pliable material. |
The Custom Mouthguard Fitting Process
Getting a custom mouthguard is quick, comfortable, and simple:
Initial Assessment
We discuss your specific needs (sport, activity level, or grinding severity) to determine the ideal thickness and design of the guard.
Impression
We take a precise mould (impression) of your teeth. This ensures a perfect, snug fit that won’t shift during activity.
Fabrication
The impression is sent to a reputable Australian dental lab where your mouthguard is custom-crafted from high-quality, durable material.
Fitting & Collection
Once ready, you return for a final fitting. We check the comfort, bite, and make any necessary minor adjustments. You can also select from a wide range of colours!
Why Choose Diamond Dental Bundoora for Your Guard?
We prioritise the safety, durability, and compliance of your oral protection.
- ADA Recommended Standard: We adhere to the Australian Dental Association's recommendation that custom-fitted mouthguards are the safest and most effective choice.
- Optimal Comfort and Fit: Our dentists ensure the guard does not impede breathing or speech, a crucial factor for athletes and those using a night guard nightly.
- Protection Against Trauma and Bruxism: We craft specific appliances for sports and grinding, ensuring the material and design are optimised for maximum protection in both scenarios.
- Ongoing Maintenance: We check the condition of your mouthguard at your Routine Check-ups, ensuring it remains effective and fits correctly, especially important for growing Kids Dentistry patients.
Team
Meet Our Highly Skilled Team
Our dentists, led by Dr. Ashish Gulati and Dr. Ruby Gulati, are passionate about delivering exceptional, evidence-based care. Their combined expertise in Dental Implants, Cosmetic Dentistry, and family care ensures you receive the highest standard of treatment.
Health Funds & Payment Options
We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality dental care. To make our services more affordable, we proudly accept all major Australian health funds, helping you maximise your benefits and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Our General Dentistry Services
Sometimes, what looks like a simple cavity requires a more complex solution. We offer comprehensive general care:
frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a custom mouthguard?
The process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks from the initial impression appointment to the final fitting appointment, as the guard is fabricated in a professional lab.
How often should a mouthguard be replaced?
For adults, we recommend replacement every 1 to 3 seasons, or whenever it shows signs of damage or wear. For growing children, a guard may need replacing every 12 months (or even sooner) due to tooth development and growth.
Can a custom mouthguard be worn with braces?
Yes. If your child has orthodontic appliances, a custom mouthguard is essential and will be specifically designed to fit over the braces without hindering movement or causing damage.
How do I clean and store my mouthguard?
Rinse it thoroughly with cool water after every use. Clean it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Store it dry in its protective, ventilated case, away from direct sunlight or hot water.
What is the difference between a sports mouthguard and a night guard?
A sports mouthguard is thicker and designed to absorb external impact. A night guard (occlusal splint) is usually thinner and rigid, designed to cushion and protect teeth from internal pressure (grinding) while keeping the jaw relaxed.
