How to Choose the Right Mouthguard for You

Your Guide to buying the best Mouthguards

Overview

Mouthguards are a great way to protect your teeth and mouth from injury when playing contact sports, or any activity that could result in a blow to the face. A good mouthguard should be comfortable and durable, and fit properly. In this buying guide, we'll cover the different types of mouthguards, how to choose the right one, and where to find the best deals. We'll also discuss the importance of wearing a mouthguard and the safety benefits it provides.

Key features

  1. Purpose of Mouthguard: The first thing buyers must consider when buying a mouthguard is the purpose for which they are buying it. Will it be used for protection during sports activities, sleeping, or for other purposes? Depending on the purpose, shoppers should select a mouthguard that is designed specifically for their purpose.
  2. Fit: It is important to ensure that the mouthguard fits the user properly. Too tight or ill-fitting mouthguards can cause discomfort and restrict breathing. Buyers should look for mouthguards that fit their mouth properly and provide a good seal.
  3. Durability: Mouthguards can experience a lot of wear and tear, so buyers should make sure that they buy one that is durable enough to withstand the intended activity. Look for mouthguards that are made from strong materials that can resist tearing and are designed to last.
  4. Breathability: It is important to buy a breathable mouthguard that allows for adequate airflow and does not restrict breathing. Look for mouthguards that are designed with holes and vents to provide maximum breathability.
  5. Comfort: Buyers should look for a mouthguard that is comfortable to wear. Look for a mouthguard that is made from soft and flexible materials that will not irritate the user's mouth and allow for a full range of movement.
  6. Protection: Buyers should look for a mouthguard that offers the best protection possible. Look for mouthguards that are designed to absorb shock and protect the teeth and jaw from impacts.
  7. Price: Buyers should consider the overall cost of the mouthguard before making a purchase. Generally, the higher the quality of the mouthguard, the higher the price. It is important to find a balance between quality and affordability.

See the most popular Mouthguards on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Protection: Mouthguards provide physical protection to the teeth, jaw, and other oral structures from injury due to contact sports, grinding teeth during sleep, or other causes of trauma.
  • Customization: Many mouthguards can be custom-fitted to the individual’s mouth, providing superior comfort and protection.
  • Cost-Effective: Mouthguards are relatively inexpensive compared to other methods of protecting teeth and jaws, such as braces.
  • Reduced Dental Treatment: By wearing a mouthguard, the risk of dental injury can be reduced and the need for costly dental treatment can be avoided.
  • Easy to Clean: Most mouthguards are designed to be easy to clean and can be used for extended periods of time.

Cons

  • Price - Mouthguards are often expensive, and the cost can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars depending on the type and quality.
  • Different Types - There are many different types of mouthguards and it can be difficult to determine which is best for you.
  • Fit and Comfort - While mouthguards should fit snugly and provide some cushioning, they may be uncomfortable and cause irritation to the mouth and gums.
  • Difficulty to Wear - Mouthguards can be difficult to put in and take out, and they can also interfere with speaking and breathing.
  • Care & Maintenance - Mouthguards require regular cleaning and maintenance in order to remain effective and safe to use.

Best alternatives

  1. Gumshields - design to protect and cushion teeth, gums, and lips from sports-related injuries
  2. Custom-made Mouthguards - specifically designed for each individual to ensure a proper fit and the greatest level of protection
  3. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards - made of thermoplastic material and can be softened in hot water and shaped to the teeth and gums for a more snug fit
  4. Ready-made Mouthguards - pre-formed and come in various sizes and can offer some level of protection

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Mouthguard - a protective device worn in the mouth to prevent and reduce the incidence of sports-related dental injuries. Cleaning Supplies - specialized cleaning products that are designed to keep the mouthguard free from bacteria and other contaminants. Case - a protective case for storing and carrying a mouthguard. Lining Materials - materials used to line the inside of the mouthguard to create a comfortable and secure fit. Screwdriver - a specialized tool used for adjusting the mouthguard to fit the user's mouth size.

Common questions

  1. What types of mouthguards are available? There are three main types of mouthguards available: a stock mouthguard, a “boil and bite” mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard. Stock mouthguards provide the most basic level of protection and are pre-formed and ready for use. “Boil and bite” mouthguards are formed by boiling them and then biting down on them to form them to the user’s mouth. Custom-made mouthguards are made by dentists to perfectly fit the user’s mouth.
  2. What materials are mouthguards made of? Mouthguards are typically made of thermoplastic materials that are designed to be flexible and durable. Some mouthguards may also contain other materials, such as foam, gel, or rubber.
  3. How should I care for my mouthguard? Mouthguards should be rinsed with cold water and air-dried after each use. It is also important to store the mouthguard in a clean, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
  4. How long do mouthguards last? Most mouthguards last for about one year, though the exact lifespan of your mouthguard will depend on how often it is used and how well it is cared for.
  5. Should I wear a mouthguard when I'm sleeping? Wearing a mouthguard while sleeping is not typically recommended. However, some athletes may choose to wear a mouthguard while sleeping in order to protect their teeth from grinding and other potential dental problems.

Trivia

In 2020, a man in the United Kingdom was arrested after attempting to rob a store while wearing a mouthguard. The man allegedly approached the store wearing a hoodie and a mouthguard and demanded money from the clerk, but ran away when the clerk refused. The man was later arrested and taken into custody by police. This story was reported by The Sun and can be found here: The Sun.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.