Mouthguards

Who Should Wear Mouthguards?

Anyone who participates in contact sports or activities with a high risk of dental injuries should wear a mouthguard. This includes sports like football, rugby, hockey, basketball, and boxing. Even non-contact sports like gymnastics, skateboarding, and mountain biking can put you at risk of dental injuries.

Children who participate in sports should also wear mouthguards, as they are more prone to injuries due to their active lifestyle and developing teeth. If you wear braces, you should also wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and the braces.

What are the Benefits of Mouthguards?

Mouthguards offer several benefits, including:

• Protection against Dental Injuries: Mouthguards act as a cushion to your teeth, protecting them from the impact of a blow.
• Reduced Risk of Jaw Fractures: A blow to the jaw can cause it to fracture. A mouthguard helps to distribute the blow's impact, reducing the fracture risk.
• Reduced Risk of Concussions: Mouthguards help to absorb the shock of a blow to the head, reducing the risk of a concussion.
• Protects Braces: If you wear braces, a mouthguard can protect them from damage due to impact.
• Improved Breathing: Mouthguards designed for specific sports like football and hockey can improve breathing and performance.

What are the Types of Mouthguards?

Generally, three basic types of mouthguards are available:

• Stock Mouthguards: These devices are inexpensive and manufactured in a pre-formed shape, ready to wear. However, they may not fit very well and cause difficulty in speech and breathing due to their bulkiness. They offer only minimal protection and are not recommended by dentists.
• Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These devices provide a better fit than the stock mouth protectors and are available at most sporting goods stores. These guards are usually made of thermoplastic material. They are immersed in hot water to soften them before placing them in the mouth, moulding them to the desired shape with the help of your fingers and tongue.
• Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: These are more expensive and usually offer the best fit. These guards are designed and constructed based on a patient's specific requirements at the dentist’s office or a dental laboratory.

Alternative Options to Mouthguards

While mouthguards are an effective way to protect your teeth and mouth from injury, there are other options available, such as:

• Face Shields: Face shields are transparent shields that cover your entire face, protecting your eyes, nose, and mouth from impact. They are commonly used in sports like football and hockey.
• Helmet with Face Guards: Helmets with face guards protect your face, head, and mouth. They are commonly used in sports like football, hockey, and baseball.
• Bite Splints: Bite splints protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. They are made of transparent plastic and custom-fitted to your teeth.

What to Expect After Using Mouthguards?

After using a mouthguard, you may experience some discomfort or soreness in your jaw, teeth, or gums. This is normal and should subside within a few days. You should also clean your mouthguard after each use to prevent bacteria buildup and ensure its effectiveness.

Tips on Caring For Your Mouthguard

To ensure that your mouthguard provides the best possible protection, taking good care of it is essential.

Clean Your Mouthguard After Each Use

After using your mouthguard, cleaning it thoroughly to prevent bacteria buildup and ensure its effectiveness is essential. Rinse it under cold water to remove debris or saliva, then gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Rinse it again under cold water, then allow it to air dry completely before storing it in its case.

Store Your Mouthguard Properly

Storing your mouthguard correctly is essential to prevent it from becoming lost or damaged. Always store your mouthguard in its case when not in use, and keep the case in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing your mouthguard to high temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can cause it to warp or become distorted.

Keep Your Mouthguard Away from Pets

Pets, particularly dogs, are known for chewing on things they shouldn't. Keep your mouthguard away from your pets to prevent it from becoming damaged or chewed. This is especially important if you have a custom-fitted mouthguard, which can be expensive to replace.

Do Not Share Your Mouthguard

Sharing your mouthguard with others can increase the risk of transmitting germs and infections. Always use your mouthguard and avoid sharing it with anyone else. If you need a mouthguard but do not have your own, use a boil and bite mouthguard that can be fitted to your teeth.

Replace Your Mouthguard Regularly

Mouthguards can become worn or damaged over time, reducing their effectiveness at protecting your teeth and gums. Replacing your mouthguard at least once a year or more frequently if it shows signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, holes, or a loose fit, is recommended.

Check Your Mouthguard Regularly

Regularly check your mouthguard for signs of damage or wear. If you notice any cracks, holes, or other damage, stop using it immediately and replace it with a new one. If your mouthguard no longer fits properly or feels uncomfortable, ask your dentist to adjust or replace it.

How Effective are Mouthguards?

Mouthguards are highly effective at preventing dental injuries, especially during physical activities that involve contact or impact. They are designed to absorb the shock of a blow, protecting the teeth and gums from damage. Without a mouthguard, a blow to the mouth could result in broken or chipped teeth, jaw fractures, and other injuries that could require costly and time-consuming dental procedures to repair.

Studies have shown that athletes wearing mouthguards are less likely to suffer dental injuries than those who do not. One study found that athletes who did not wear mouthguards were almost twice as likely to suffer dental injuries as those who did.

Mouthguards are also effective at reducing the risk of concussions, as they help to absorb the shock of a blow to the head. This is particularly important in contact sports like football, where players are at a high risk of head injuries.



While mouthguards are highly effective at preventing dental injuries, it is essential to note that they may not provide 100% protection. In rare cases, a severe impact could still result in dental injuries, even with a mouthguard. However, wearing a mouthguard is still the best way to reduce the risk of dental injuries during physical activities.

Mouthguards Risks

While mouthguards are generally safe, some risks are associated with their use. These include:

• Discomfort: Mouthguards can cause discomfort or soreness in the jaw, teeth, or gums.
• Difficulty Breathing: Some mouthguards can make breathing difficult, especially if not designed for a specific sport.
• Buildup of Bacteria: If a mouthguard is not cleaned correctly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections.
• Choking Hazard: Mouthguards not correctly fitted can become dislodged and pose a choking hazard.

What is the Cost of Mouthguards?

The cost of mouthguards can vary depending on the type and the level of customisation required. Stock mouthguards are the least expensive option, costing around $10-$30. Boil and bite mouthguards cost around $20-$50, while custom-fitted mouthguards cost $100 and above. While custom-fitted mouthguards may be more expensive, they offer the best protection and are the most comfortable to wear.