Sports come with risks, and dental injuries are among the most common. Mouthguards for athletes provide essential protection, reducing the chance of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage. From contact sports like football to non-contact activities like gymnastics, athletes of all levels benefit from wearing one. Choosing the right mouthguard depends on the sport, level of play, and personal comfort.
The Importance of Mouthguards for Athletes
Mouth injuries can happen fast, and recovery is often painful and expensive. A properly fitted mouthguard acts as a barrier, helping to absorb impact and protect the teeth, gums, and jaw.
Common Dental Injuries in Sports
Without protection, athletes risk:
- Chipped or broken teeth – A direct hit to the mouth can fracture teeth, leading to costly dental repairs.
- Tooth loss – Hard impacts may knock out a tooth completely, requiring emergency treatment.
- Jaw fractures – Some injuries extend beyond the teeth, damaging the jawbone.
- Soft tissue injuries – The lips, tongue, and inner cheeks can be cut or bruised from sudden force.
Sports That Require Mouthguards
Mouthguards are a must in high-contact sports but are also beneficial for other activities.
High-Contact Sports
Athletes in these sports face a higher risk of mouth injuries:
- Football
- Hockey
- Boxing
- Martial arts
- Lacrosse
- Rugby
Moderate-Contact Sports
While not as aggressive as high-contact sports, these still involve risks:
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Wrestling
- Baseball/Softball
Non-Contact Sports with Risk of Falls or Impact
Even non-contact sports can cause mouth injuries due to falls or accidental collisions:
- Gymnastics
- Cycling
- Skateboarding
- Weightlifting
Beyond Just Teeth Protection
Mouthguards do more than prevent broken teeth. They help stabilize the jaw, reducing the chance of concussions from impact. They also protect braces and other dental work from damage. A well-fitted mouthguard makes breathing and speaking easier while playing, allowing athletes to focus on performance without discomfort. Protecting your teeth and jaw should be a priority for every athlete.
Different Types of Mouthguards for Athletes
Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. The right choice depends on the sport, fit, and personal preference. Some provide basic coverage, while others are designed for high-impact sports.
1. Stock Mouthguards
- Pre-formed and sold in a standard size
- Least expensive but often uncomfortable
- Can be bulky and may not stay in place well
- Limited protection due to poor fit
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
- Made from thermoplastic material that softens in hot water
- Molds to the teeth for a better fit than stock versions
- Offers a balance between affordability and protection
- Available in sporting goods stores and widely used by athletes
3. Custom-Fit Mouthguards
- Created by a dentist for a precise fit
- Offers the highest level of comfort and protection
- Allows easier breathing and speaking during play
- Best choice for serious athletes and those with braces
Which One Is Best?
The best option depends on the level of contact in the sport and personal comfort. Custom-fit mouthguards for athletes provide the most protection, but boil-and-bite models are a solid alternative for those looking for a better fit than stock options. Athletes in high-impact sports should consider investing in a custom design for maximum safety. Choosing the right mouthguard ensures better performance and fewer risks.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard Based on Sport
Different sports require different levels of protection. The intensity of contact, risk of impact, and duration of wear all influence which mouthguard works best. Some athletes need a thicker, high-impact design, while others benefit from a more flexible option.
High-Impact Sports (Football, Boxing, Hockey, MMA, Rugby)
Athletes in these sports face frequent direct hits, making strong protection essential.
- Recommended Mouthguard: Custom-fit or high-quality boil-and-bite
- Key Features:
- Extra thickness for shock absorption
- Secure fit to prevent dislodging during intense play
- Reinforced material to withstand repeated impacts
Moderate-Contact Sports (Basketball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Wrestling, Baseball/Softball)
While not as aggressive as high-impact sports, these involve risks from accidental collisions, elbows, or falls.
- Recommended Mouthguard: Boil-and-bite or custom-fit
- Key Features:
- Slimmer profile for comfort and breathability
- Adequate cushioning to absorb unexpected contact
- Durable enough to handle fast movements and minor impacts
Non-Contact Sports with Risk of Falls or Accidental Impact (Gymnastics, Cycling, Skateboarding, Weightlifting)
Even without direct player contact, falls and equipment-related accidents can cause dental injuries.
- Recommended Mouthguard: Thin custom-fit or lightweight boil-and-bite
- Key Features:
- Lightweight for minimal interference
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Just enough protection to prevent minor injuries
Mouthguards for Athletes with Braces
Braces require additional protection to prevent cuts inside the mouth and safeguard orthodontic work.
- Best Option: Custom-fit mouthguards designed specifically for braces
- Why?
- Extra space for brackets and wires
- Smooth interior to reduce irritation
- Stronger material to absorb impact without damaging braces
Wearing the right mouthguard for the sport can prevent serious injuries while allowing athletes to perform comfortably.
Key Features to Look for in Mouthguards for Athletes
Not all mouthguards offer the same level of comfort and protection. The right one should provide a secure fit, allow easy breathing, and last through the demands of the sport. Here are the most important features to consider.
1. Proper Fit and Comfort
- Should stay in place without constant adjustment
- Must cover the teeth and gums without feeling bulky
- Should not interfere with speaking or breathing
2. Breathability and Ease of Communication
- Allows athletes to breathe naturally during play
- Should not block airflow or cause excessive salivation
- Enables clear speech for team communication
3. Durable Materials for Longevity
- Shock-absorbing materials reduce impact force
- Tear-resistant to withstand repeated use
- Non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals
4. Thickness and Coverage Based on Sport
- High-impact sports: Thicker mouthguards with reinforced layers
- Moderate-contact sports: Medium thickness for a balance of comfort and protection
- Non-contact sports: Lightweight design for occasional impact protection
5. Hygiene: How to Clean and Store Your Mouthguard
- Rinse before and after each use
- Clean regularly with mild soap and water
- Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup
- Avoid leaving it in hot environments, as heat can warp the material
A well-designed mouthguard improves both safety and performance. Choosing one with the right features ensures long-term protection without discomfort.
