The Rising Tide of Sports Injury Prevention: Why Mouthguards Are No Longer Optional
As collision sports like AFL and rugby continue to draw participants, a critical conversation is gaining momentum: the importance of preventative measures, particularly mouthguards. Fresh data reveals that sports injuries requiring hospitalisation are on the rise, with collision-heavy codes leading the way. But despite the clear risks, uptake of mouthguard use remains surprisingly low.
The Alarming Statistics: A Wake-Up Call for Athletes and Parents
Recent government data indicates that nearly 19 per cent of sports participants experience an injury, with collision sports exhibiting hospitalisation rates more than double those of other recreational activities. A staggering 66 per cent of sports injury hospitalisations are attributed to collisions or falls. Yet, only 36 per cent of Australians currently wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports and an even smaller percentage use them during training sessions.
This disparity highlights a significant gap in awareness and preventative care. Dr. Mark Dohlad, principal dental officer at Bupa Dental, emphasizes the critical timing of the junior sports season. “Kids’ mouths grow and change quickly, meaning a mouthguard that fit last season may not offer the protection parents assume it does,” he warns.
Beyond Boil-and-Bite: The Case for Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
While any mouthguard is better than none, the level of protection varies dramatically. Over-the-counter “boil and bite” options offer a basic level of defence, but they often lack the stability and comprehensive coverage of professionally fitted, custom-made mouthguards.
“Too often dentists see preventable injuries occur early in the season or at training, when mouthguards are forgotten or a poorly fitting one shifts on impact, leaving teeth, jaws and soft tissue exposed,” explains Dr. Dohlad. Custom-fitted mouthguards are designed to a player’s individual bite by a dentist, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit during both games, and practice.
The benefits extend beyond physical protection. A well-fitted mouthguard can boost a player’s confidence on the field, knowing they have adequate protection. For parents, it provides peace of mind, knowing their child is safeguarded against potential dental trauma.
Financial Assistance and Accessibility
For Bupa Health Insurance members with eligible Extras cover, accessing a custom-fitted mouthguard is even more affordable. Members attending participating Members First Ultimate clinics can receive 100 per cent back on the cost of a standard fitted mouthguard across Bupa’s national network of practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of injuries can a mouthguard prevent?
Mouthguards can help prevent fractured teeth, broken jaws, and lacerations to the tongue and cheek.
Are boil-and-bite mouthguards effective?
They offer some protection, but are not as effective as custom-fitted mouthguards due to potential instability and poor fit.
How often should a mouthguard be replaced?
Mouthguards should be replaced annually, or more frequently if they become damaged or no longer fit properly.
Don’t let a preventable injury sideline your season. Prioritising mouthguard protection is an investment in your health, confidence, and enjoyment of the game.
