Parents and local athletes are being advised to consider oral and general health safety as we approach the 2024 rugby and football seasons with data suggesting only 36 per cent of Australians wear a mouthguard when playing contact sport, and even fewer wear a mouthguard during training.
Players who don’t wear mouthguards risk sustaining serious injuries such as fractured teeth, broken jaws and serious cuts to the tongue and lips. Oral injuries to children in particular are of concerns as these injuries can affect their speech and nutrition.
Dr Cathryn Madden, Head Dentist at Bupa Dental said custom fitted mouthguards can give parents and players valuable piece of mind while ensuring kids can get the most out of their sporting experience.
“Players who participate in contact sports are at higher risk of sustaining potentially preventable injuries when opting for over the counter, boil and bite mouthguards which are more likely to be dislodged during a game.
“Getting fitted for a mouthguard by your friendly local dentist will ensure you have protection that is high-quality, fitted to your unique mouth and is comfortable to play in,” Cathryn said. They minimise risk of injury to your teeth, gums and jaw and come in a variety of designs and colours.
Bupa Health Insurance members with eligible Extras cover who attend participating Bupa Dental clinics will also receive a no-gap experience on standard fitted mouthguards across its national network of 148 practices.
“If you fitted your child with a mouthguard at the dentist last year, don’t assume it will still be suitable in 2024 as a child’s mouth can grow and change shape over time… particularly as they lose or develop new teeth,” Cathryn said.
