Sports Mouthguards in Sandgate | Sandgate Family Dental

A custom sports mouthguard is made from impressions of your teeth, so it fits securely. It helps cushion and spread the force of a knock to your teeth, gums and jaw. No mouthguard removes all risk. We provide them for children, teens and adults.

Book online (opens in a new tab)Or call (07) 3269 6252

Book online any time, or call us during opening hours, including Saturday mornings.

12 Lagoon St, Sandgate QLD 4017
Open Saturday mornings, 8:00AM to 12:00PM
Preferred provider for HCF, CBHS, nib and HIF

Sports mouthguards at a glance

Number of visits: Usually two short visits. One for impressions, then a fitting about one to two weeks later.
Your options: Single-layer for lower-contact sports, or dual-layer for higher-impact sports. You also choose a colour.
Fees: A consultation fee applies, including if you decide not to go ahead. Custom colour combinations cost extra.
Children and teens: Growing mouths change, so a child’s mouthguard may need replacing more often. For children eligible for the CDBS, mouthguards are not usually covered.
Health funds: Preferred provider for HCF, CBHS, nib and HIF; approved provider for Smile.com.au. What you get back depends on your policy, cover and limits.
Where and when: 12 Lagoon St, Sandgate QLD 4017 · (07) 3269 6252
Mon–Thurs 8:30AM–5:00PM · Fri 8:30AM–4:00PM · Sat 8:00AM–12:00PM

How your mouthguard is made

Book online, or call (07) 3269 6252. A consultation fee applies, including if you decide not to go ahead.
Your dentist takes impressions of your upper teeth. These are sent to a dental laboratory.
You choose single or dual layer, and your colour. Custom colour combinations cost extra.
At your fitting, usually within a week or two, your dentist checks the fit and makes any small adjustments.

At Sandgate Family Dental, custom sports mouthguards are provided by our dentists Dr Nina Stallman and Dr Nima Kancherla, for patients across Sandgate and the north Brisbane bayside.

A custom-fitted sports mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your teeth, gums and jaw during physical activity. At Sandgate Family Dental, we provide professionally made mouthguards for children, teens and adults who play contact sports or any activity where a dental injury could occur. Unlike generic store-bought options, a custom mouthguard is made from precise impressions of your teeth, so it fits securely, feels comfortable and provides reliable protection where you need it. Our clinic is located at 12 Lagoon St, Sandgate, and we welcome patients and sports clubs from across North Brisbane, including Shorncliffe, Brighton, Deagon, Bracken Ridge and surrounding suburbs.

Why Wear a Mouthguard?

Dental injuries during sport are more common than many people realise. A knocked-out tooth, a cracked molar, a split lip or a broken jaw can happen in an instant — and the treatment to repair the damage can be lengthy and costly. In many cases, these injuries are preventable with a properly fitted mouthguard.

A mouthguard acts as a cushion that absorbs and distributes the force of an impact, helping to protect teeth from chips, cracks and fractures, reduce the risk of soft tissue injuries to the lips, cheeks and tongue, protect the jaw joint and supporting structures, and lower the risk of tooth loss from a direct blow.

Dental Australia and most major sporting bodies recommend wearing a professionally fitted mouthguard for any sport or activity that carries a risk of contact to the face or head. If a dental injury does occur during sport, our emergency dental team can provide prompt care.

Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards

There are three general types of mouthguards available: custom-fitted (made by your dentist), boil-and-bite (purchased from a pharmacy or sports store), and stock (pre-formed, one-size-fits-all). While all three offer some level of protection, there are significant differences in fit, comfort and effectiveness.

Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

A custom mouthguard is made in a dental laboratory from an impression of your teeth. Because it’s tailored to your exact bite, it fits snugly without needing to clench your jaw to hold it in place. This makes it more comfortable to wear, easier to breathe and speak through, and less likely to dislodge during play. Custom mouthguards also provide more even distribution of impact force, offering a higher level of protection for the teeth, gums and jaw.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and then moulded in the mouth by biting down. While they offer a better fit than stock guards, the moulding process often results in an uneven thickness that can compromise protection. They also tend to be bulkier and less comfortable, which means some players leave them out — defeating the purpose.

Stock Mouthguards

Pre-formed stock mouthguards come in limited sizes and can’t be adjusted to fit your teeth. They generally provide the lowest level of protection and are the least comfortable option. They’re not recommended for any sport involving significant contact risk.

For anyone who plays sport regularly, a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist provides the most reliable protection and comfort.

Which Sports Need a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards are recommended for any sport or activity where there’s a risk of impact to the face, jaw or mouth. This includes a wide range of activities — not just full-contact sports.

Sports where mouthguards are commonly worn or required include football (all codes), rugby league and rugby union, AFL, soccer, hockey (field and ice), basketball, netball, martial arts and boxing, cricket (particularly for batters and wicketkeepers), skateboarding, mountain biking and BMX, and water polo.

Even in sports that aren’t traditionally considered “contact” sports, accidental collisions, falls and impacts can happen. If there’s any chance of a blow to the face during your activity, a mouthguard is a worthwhile investment.

Many local sports clubs and school programs require players to wear mouthguards during training and competition. Our team can assist clubs and schools with group fittings — contact us to arrange this.

Get Your Custom Mouthguard Before the Season Starts

Don’t wait until game day — get fitted early so your mouthguard is ready when you need it. Our team can tell you the cost when you book. Book your fitting online or call us on (07) 3269 6252.

How Custom Mouthguards Are Made

Getting a custom sports mouthguard at Sandgate Family Dental is a quick, straightforward process — usually completed across two short appointments.

Appointment One: Impressions

Your dentist takes precise impressions (moulds) of your upper teeth. This takes just a few minutes and is generally painless. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your mouthguard is made to fit your exact bite.

Choosing Your Options

You can choose from single-layer or dual-layer construction depending on the level of protection you need and the sport you play. Single-layer guards are suitable for lower-contact sports, while dual-layer guards provide additional thickness and cushioning for higher-impact activities. You can also choose your mouthguard colour — or opt for custom colour combinations for an additional fee.

Appointment Two: Fitting

Once your mouthguard is ready (usually within a week or two), you’ll return for a quick fitting. Your dentist checks the fit, makes any minor adjustments and ensures you’re comfortable. You’ll leave the appointment with your mouthguard ready to use.

Mouthguards for Children and Teens

Children and teenagers are among the most likely groups to experience dental injuries during sport. As their teeth and jaws are still developing, the impact of a dental injury can be particularly significant — including damage to permanent teeth that are still erupting, or injuries that affect the development of the adult teeth beneath.

A custom-fitted mouthguard is especially important for young players, as it provides a level of protection that store-bought options simply can’t match. Because children’s mouths change as they grow, mouthguards may need to be replaced more frequently than adults’ — your dentist can advise on the right schedule.

If your child is eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), it’s worth noting that mouthguards are not typically covered under this program. However, the check-ups that identify the need for a mouthguard are covered. Learn more about our children’s dentistry services, including children’s sports mouthguards.

Caring for Your Mouthguard

Looking after your mouthguard helps it last longer and stay hygienic.

Rinse your mouthguard with cool or lukewarm water after each use — avoid hot water, as it can warp the shape. Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a dedicated mouthguard cleaning solution. Allow it to air dry before storing it in a ventilated case (most custom mouthguards come with one). Keep it out of direct sunlight, hot cars and other high-temperature environments.

Bring your mouthguard to your regular dental check-ups so your dentist can inspect it for wear, thinning or changes in fit. A mouthguard that has become worn, loose or damaged may not provide adequate protection and should be replaced.

For children and teens who are still growing, the fit of a mouthguard may change over a season as teeth shift and new teeth come through. If it’s feeling loose or uncomfortable, it’s time for a new one.

What to Do If You Have a Dental Injury During Sport

If a dental injury happens on the field, quick action can make a significant difference — especially if a tooth has been knocked out.

For a knocked-out permanent tooth, handle the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it with milk or saliva if it’s dirty, and try to replant it into the socket if possible. If you can’t replant it, store the tooth in milk or hold it inside the cheek and get to a dentist within 30 minutes if possible. For a chipped, cracked or loosened tooth, avoid touching or wiggling it, and see a dentist as soon as you can. For soft tissue injuries such as a split lip, cut tongue or lacerated gum, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to control bleeding.

Visit our emergency dental page for information on urgent appointments. If you need treatment for a more significant injury, options such as dental bonding, a dental crown, or a dental bridge or implant may be discussed depending on the damage.

No mouthguard removes all risk, so if an injury does happen during sport, acting quickly matters — see our guide on what to do after a sports dental injury.

Health Fund and Payment Options

Custom sports mouthguards are covered under the general dental or preventive component of many health fund extras policies. The amount you receive back will depend on your level of cover and your fund’s fee schedule.

At Sandgate Family Dental, we process health fund claims on the spot using HICAPS, so you only need to pay the gap (if any) at the time of your visit. We are preferred providers or members of provider networks for several major funds, including HCF, nib, CBHS and HIF. Patients with these funds may receive a rebate on their custom mouthguard. Visit our health funds page for more details.

Our team can give you an exact quote when you book. Custom colour combinations are available at an additional cost. This offer is available in conjunction with our New Patient Offer ($199). T&C’s apply — ask our team for details.

Custom Sports Mouthguards for Families Across North Brisbane

Sandgate Family Dental is located at 12 Lagoon St, Sandgate, with convenient access for patients and sports families throughout the North Brisbane bayside area. We’re open six days a week, including Saturday mornings — perfect for fitting mouthguards before the weekend’s games.

We regularly care for patients from Sandgate, Shorncliffe, Brighton, Deagon, Boondall, Bracken Ridge, Taigum, Fitzgibbon, Clontarf, Woody Point, Margate and surrounding areas.

Whether you need a mouthguard for yourself, your child, or your entire team — our clinic can help.

Book your mouthguard fitting online or call us on (07) 3269 6252.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Mouthguards

How much does a custom mouthguard cost? The cost depends on the type of mouthguard you choose. Custom colour combinations are available at an additional cost. If you have health insurance, you may receive a rebate depending on your level of cover. Our team can provide an exact quote when you book.

How long does it take to get a custom mouthguard? The process usually involves two short appointments — one for the impression and one for the fitting — spaced about one to two weeks apart. We recommend booking well before the start of the season so your mouthguard is ready for training and games.

How long does a custom mouthguard last? For adults, a well-maintained custom mouthguard can last several seasons, depending on wear. For children and teens, the mouthguard may need to be replaced more frequently as their teeth and jaws grow and change. Bring your mouthguard to your dental check-ups and your dentist can assess whether it still fits properly.

Is a custom mouthguard really better than a store-bought one? Yes, in terms of fit, comfort and protection. A custom mouthguard is made from impressions of your teeth, so it fits precisely and stays in place without clenching. Store-bought boil-and-bite guards offer some protection but are generally bulkier, less comfortable and provide uneven cushioning. For anyone who plays sport regularly, a custom mouthguard is a worthwhile investment.

Can I get a mouthguard with my team colours? Yes. We offer a range of colour options for custom mouthguards. Single-colour mouthguards are our standard option. Custom colour combinations — including team colours or multi-colour designs — are available at an additional cost. Ask our team when you book.

Do children need custom mouthguards? Custom mouthguards are recommended for any child who plays contact sport or any activity with a risk of dental injury. Because children’s mouths are still developing, a professional fit ensures the mouthguard provides effective protection. Children’s mouthguards may need to be replaced more often as their teeth change. Visit our children’s dentistry page for more information.