If you play sports (or your kid does), you’ve probably heard someone say, “You should wear a mouthguard.” But what does that actually mean in real life? Do you need one for casual pickup hockey? What about basketball, mountain biking, or martial arts? And if you do need one, how do you pick the right type without wasting money on something bulky you’ll never wear?
This guide walks through when a mouthguard is worth it, what types exist, how they fit, and how to care for them—without the dental jargon. The goal is simple: help you protect your teeth and jaw in a way that’s comfortable enough that you’ll actually use it.
Why mouthguards matter more than most people think
When people picture sports injuries, they usually think sprains, broken fingers, or maybe a concussion. Dental injuries tend to feel “optional” in the planning stage—until a puck, elbow, ball, or handlebar changes your week (and your bank account).
Your teeth aren’t just little white rocks sitting in your mouth. They’re connected to nerves, bone, and a joint system that takes a lot of force when you get hit. A good mouthguard helps absorb and spread impact so that force doesn’t concentrate on one tooth, one spot on your jaw, or your lips.
Beyond broken teeth, mouthguards can reduce the risk of cut lips and cheeks, chipped enamel, and even jaw injuries. They also help protect dental work like crowns, veneers, and orthodontic appliances. In other words: mouthguards aren’t just for kids with braces—they’re for anyone who wants to keep their smile intact.
Sports and situations where a mouthguard is a smart move
Some sports make the decision easy. If there’s contact, speed, hard surfaces, or flying objects, a mouthguard belongs in your gear bag. But it’s not always obvious which activities are “risky enough.”
A helpful rule is this: if a fall or collision could realistically result in your teeth hitting something hard—another person, the ground, equipment, or even your own teeth—then a mouthguard is worth considering.
High-contact sports where mouthguards are basically non-negotiable
Hockey, football, rugby, lacrosse, boxing, MMA, and wrestling are the classic examples. Impacts happen fast, often unexpectedly, and the forces involved can be intense. Even if your league doesn’t require a mouthguard, your teeth would definitely vote “yes.”
In these sports, the mouthguard isn’t just about avoiding chipped front teeth. It can help protect against jaw trauma and soft-tissue injuries too. If you’ve ever seen someone bite through their lip after a collision, you already understand how quickly things can go sideways.
And if you’re thinking, “I’m careful,” remember: most injuries happen when someone else isn’t careful—or when the play is chaotic. A mouthguard is one of those pieces of equipment you hope you never truly need, but you’ll be glad you had it when you do.
“Surprisingly risky” sports people often skip mouthguards for
Basketball and soccer are big ones. There’s plenty of contact, elbows fly, and falls happen. Baseball and softball involve hard projectiles moving at high speed. Even if you’re not standing in the batter’s box, a deflected ball can find you.
Skateboarding, BMX, mountain biking, and skiing/snowboarding also deserve a mention. You’re not usually colliding with people, but you are moving fast near hard surfaces. A face-first fall can damage teeth instantly—and those injuries can be complicated to fix.
Gymnastics and cheer can also involve falls and accidental collisions. If you’re doing stunts, tumbling, or anything airborne, protecting your mouth is a lot easier than repairing it later.
When you might not need one—but still might want one
For low-contact activities like running, swimming, or yoga, a mouthguard is usually unnecessary. But there are exceptions. If you have braces, recent dental work, or a history of jaw issues, you might appreciate an extra layer of protection even in less intense settings.
Some people also clench their jaw when they lift weights or do high-intensity training. A sports mouthguard isn’t the same as a night guard, but certain athletes like having something to cushion their bite during heavy lifts.
The best approach is to think in terms of “risk exposure.” If you do an activity frequently, even a small risk can add up. Wearing a mouthguard for the activities you do most is often a better strategy than only wearing one for rare events.
What a mouthguard actually protects (and what it doesn’t)
A mouthguard is designed to absorb shock, distribute force, and create a barrier between your teeth and soft tissues. That sounds simple, but it affects several parts of your mouth and face at once.
It’s also important to be realistic: a mouthguard reduces risk; it doesn’t make you invincible. Fit, thickness, and how consistently you wear it matter a lot.
Teeth, dental work, and enamel
Chipped and fractured teeth are among the most common sports-related dental injuries. A properly fitted mouthguard helps by reducing direct tooth-to-tooth contact and cushioning blows that would otherwise crack enamel or break a tooth.
If you’ve had fillings, crowns, veneers, or implants, you should be even more protective. Dental work is strong, but it’s not immune to impact. A mouthguard can help prevent damage that might require repair or replacement.
One detail people miss: the front teeth (incisors) are often the first to take a hit, but the back teeth can also crack from force transmitted through your bite. The right mouthguard helps spread that force across a wider area.
Lips, cheeks, and tongue
Soft-tissue injuries can be nasty—deep cuts, swelling, and bruising. Mouthguards create a smooth surface so your lips and cheeks don’t get caught between teeth during impact.
This is especially helpful if you wear braces or have sharp edges from dental work. Without a guard, a sudden hit can turn brackets or tooth edges into something like a cheese grater.
Even if you’ve never had a dental injury, you might have had a “near miss” where you bit your cheek during a collision. Mouthguards reduce that risk and can make sports more comfortable overall.
Jaw and joint stress (TMJ)
The jaw joint (TMJ) can take a beating in contact sports. A mouthguard can help by stabilizing the jaw and reducing the intensity of the bite force when you get hit.
If you already experience jaw clicking, soreness, or tension headaches after games, that’s a sign you might be clenching or taking impacts in a way that stresses the joint. A well-fitted guard can help reduce strain, though persistent TMJ symptoms should be assessed by a dental professional.
It’s also worth noting that mouthguards are not a substitute for concussion prevention measures like helmets and safe play. They can help reduce oral and jaw injuries, but concussion risk is more complex and depends on many factors.
The three main types of mouthguards (and who they’re best for)
Walk into a sporting goods store and you’ll see a wall of mouthguards. They’re not all the same, and the differences aren’t just marketing. Fit and material quality have a real impact on comfort and protection.
Most mouthguards fall into three categories: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made. Here’s how to pick based on your sport, your budget, and how picky your mouth is.
Stock mouthguards: cheap and easy, but rarely a great fit
Stock mouthguards come pre-formed and are meant to fit “most mouths.” They’re usually the least expensive option, and they’re widely available. The downside is that “most mouths” is a myth.
Because they don’t fit snugly, stock guards can feel bulky, make it harder to breathe or talk, and sometimes need to be held in place by biting down. That’s not ideal, especially in sports where you need to communicate or breathe hard.
They can be better than nothing in a pinch, but if you’re playing regularly, you’ll likely end up upgrading just for comfort alone.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards: the popular middle ground
Boil-and-bite mouthguards soften in hot water so you can mold them to your teeth. When done carefully, they can fit reasonably well and offer decent protection for many recreational athletes.
The biggest factor here is technique. If you over-boil, you can ruin the material. If you don’t mold it properly, you end up with a fit that’s loose, uneven, or too thin in key areas. A poorly molded boil-and-bite can feel okay at first but provide less protection than you think.
For teens who are still growing, boil-and-bite guards can be a practical option—just be prepared to replace them as teeth shift and size changes.
Custom mouthguards: best fit, best comfort, best protection
Custom mouthguards are made from an impression or digital scan of your teeth. They’re designed to fit your bite precisely, which usually means they’re more comfortable, less bulky, and easier to breathe and speak with.
They also tend to be more durable and consistent in thickness where it matters. That consistency is a big deal for higher-impact sports, athletes with dental work, and anyone who finds store-bought guards annoying enough to “forget” to wear them.
Yes, they cost more upfront. But if you’re playing a contact sport weekly, the comfort and reliability can make the investment feel very reasonable—especially compared to the cost and hassle of repairing damaged teeth.
How to choose the right mouthguard for your sport and your mouth
Choosing a mouthguard isn’t just about picking “the best” one. It’s about picking the one you’ll wear every time, that fits your sport’s risk level, and that works with your teeth as they are right now.
Below are the practical factors that make the biggest difference.
Fit: snug, stable, and not something you have to bite to hold
A mouthguard should stay in place without you clenching. If you have to constantly bite down to keep it from slipping, it can fatigue your jaw and make you less likely to wear it.
A good fit also means it doesn’t rub raw spots on your gums, doesn’t gag you, and doesn’t feel like a hockey puck taking up all the space in your mouth. Comfort matters because comfort equals consistency.
One quick test: you should be able to open your mouth slightly and talk without the guard falling out. If you can’t, it’s probably not fitted well enough.
Breathing and communication: especially important in fast-paced sports
If you play a sport where you’re sprinting, changing direction, or calling plays, you need a mouthguard that doesn’t block airflow. Bulky guards can make athletes feel like they’re breathing through a straw, which is a dealbreaker.
Custom guards usually win here, but some well-molded boil-and-bite models can work too. The trick is ensuring the guard isn’t overly thick in the palate area and that it sits securely without needing constant bite pressure.
If you’re a coach or parent, pay attention to “silent signals.” If an athlete keeps pulling the guard out to talk, it’s not the right guard for them. The best mouthguard is the one that stays in during the whole session.
Thickness and protection level: match it to the impact risk
More thickness generally means more protection—but also more bulk. For high-contact sports, you want a guard that offers meaningful cushioning. For lower-contact sports, you may prioritize comfort and breathability while still having protection for unexpected falls.
Some custom options are made specifically for certain sports and can balance thickness with comfort. If you’re using a boil-and-bite, be careful not to thin it out too much when molding. Over-molding can stretch the material and reduce protective thickness.
If you’ve had dental trauma before, or you’re protecting expensive dental work, leaning toward a higher-protection option is usually the smart play.
Age and growth: kids and teens need more frequent replacements
Kids’ mouths change fast. Teeth erupt, shift, and grow. A mouthguard that fit at the start of the season might feel tight or loose a few months later.
For younger athletes, boil-and-bite guards can be practical as long as they’re replaced when they no longer fit well. For older teens with stable dentition, investing in a better-fitting option can make sense if they’re playing competitive contact sports.
Parents: if you notice bite marks that look uneven, tearing, or a guard that’s becoming distorted, it’s time to replace it—even if it “still kind of fits.”
Braces, aligners, and special dental considerations
If you have braces, you’ll want a mouthguard designed to accommodate brackets and wires. Some guards are specifically labeled for braces and provide extra space and cushioning to reduce irritation.
If you wear clear aligners, you’ll want advice tailored to your situation. In some cases, athletes wear a mouthguard over aligners; in others, they remove aligners and wear a guard that fits their teeth. The right approach depends on your treatment plan and sport.
Also consider any history of jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, or previous dental injuries. Those factors can influence what type of guard and fit is safest and most comfortable.
How to fit a boil-and-bite mouthguard so it actually works
Boil-and-bite mouthguards get a bad reputation mostly because they’re often fitted poorly. If you take your time and follow the steps carefully, you can get a much better result.
Always read the specific instructions for your brand, but these general tips help most people avoid the common mistakes.
Step-by-step molding tips that improve comfort and retention
Start by bringing water to a boil and then letting it cool slightly before placing the mouthguard in. If the water is aggressively boiling, you can over-soften the material too quickly, making it harder to control.
Once it’s softened, place it in your mouth and center it over your upper teeth (most sports mouthguards are designed for the top). Bite down gently and use your fingers to press the guard against your teeth and gums from the outside while using your tongue to press from the inside.
Focus on getting a snug “wrap” around the teeth without thinning the material too much. After molding, cool it in cold water to set the shape. Then test the fit: it should feel secure without clenching.
Common mistakes that lead to a useless mouthguard
Overheating is the big one. If the guard becomes too floppy, it can fold or thin out during molding. That can create weak spots that reduce protection.
Another mistake is biting too hard. People think “harder bite = better fit,” but biting aggressively can push material away from where you need it and make the guard too thin on the biting surface.
Finally, don’t trim a mouthguard unless the instructions specifically say it’s safe. Cutting can create sharp edges or compromise coverage. If it feels too big, it might be the wrong size or the wrong model.
When to give up and upgrade
If you’ve tried molding a boil-and-bite twice and it still won’t stay in place, don’t keep forcing it. A mouthguard that falls out or makes you gag won’t be worn consistently, and inconsistent use is basically the same as no protection.
If you’re playing a high-contact sport, or you’ve had dental work done, upgrading to a better-fitting option can be a relief. Comfort is not a luxury here—it’s what makes protection realistic.
And if you notice the guard is getting chewed up quickly, that can be a sign of heavy clenching or grinding during sport. A more durable, better-fitted guard may last longer and feel better.
Care, cleaning, and replacement: keeping your mouthguard safe (and not gross)
Mouthguards spend a lot of time in warm, moist environments—basically the dream scenario for bacteria. Taking care of your guard doesn’t take much time, but it does make a difference for hygiene and longevity.
It also helps you avoid that “weird smell” that makes people stop wearing their guard altogether.
Daily cleaning habits that take under two minutes
Rinse your mouthguard with cool water right after use. Then brush it gently with a toothbrush (not the one you use for your teeth) and mild soap. Some people use toothpaste, but certain toothpastes can be abrasive and cloud the material over time.
Let it air dry fully before storing it. Storing a wet mouthguard in a closed container can encourage bacterial growth and odor. A ventilated case is ideal.
And yes, wash the case too. The case can collect bacteria and grime, which defeats the purpose of cleaning the guard.
What to avoid: heat, sunlight, and “creative” cleaning tricks
Don’t leave your mouthguard in a hot car, near a heater, or in direct sunlight. Heat can warp it, and a warped guard won’t fit properly anymore.
Avoid boiling it to “sanitize” it unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it. High heat can change the shape and reduce effectiveness.
If you want a deeper clean, ask your dental office what they recommend. Some mouthguard-safe cleaners exist, but the key is using something that won’t degrade the material.
Replacement signs: when it’s time for a new one
If your mouthguard has holes, tears, or rough edges, replace it. Those issues can reduce protection and irritate your gums and cheeks.
If it no longer fits snugly, replace it. Fit changes can happen from growth, dental work, orthodontic treatment, or simple wear and warping.
Also replace it if it starts to smell even after cleaning, or if it becomes discolored and tacky. A mouthguard is not meant to last forever, especially under heavy use.
What to do if you take a hit to the mouth during sports
Even with a mouthguard, accidents happen. Knowing what to do in the moment can make a big difference in the outcome—especially if a tooth is chipped, loosened, or knocked out.
It’s one of those things you hope you never need, but if you do, you’ll be glad you read it once.
Chipped or cracked tooth: don’t ignore it just because it “doesn’t hurt”
Small chips can feel like no big deal, but cracks can extend deeper than you can see. If you chip a tooth, rinse your mouth with water and check for sharp edges that could cut your tongue or cheek.
If you have pain, sensitivity, or swelling, that’s a sign the tooth may be more seriously injured. Even without pain, it’s still worth getting checked quickly—early treatment can prevent complications.
If you’re in the London area and need urgent help, it’s useful to know where to go for emergency dental care London, ON so you’re not scrambling while stressed and sore.
Loose tooth or tooth pushed out of position: treat it as time-sensitive
If a tooth feels loose, avoid wiggling it. A tooth that’s been hit can have damage to the ligament and surrounding bone even if it looks “mostly normal.”
Try to bite gently on clean gauze if there’s bleeding, and get evaluated as soon as possible. The sooner a dentist can assess and stabilize a tooth, the better the chances of saving it.
If your child is involved, keep them calm and avoid giving aspirin (it can increase bleeding). Cold compresses can help with swelling on the outside of the face.
Knocked-out tooth: quick action can save it
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root. If it’s dirty, rinse it briefly with milk or saline if available (or water if that’s all you have), but don’t scrub it.
If you can, place it back in the socket gently and have the person bite down softly on gauze to hold it in place. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva and get to a dentist immediately. Time really matters here.
Having a plan—knowing who to call and where to go—can be the difference between saving the tooth and losing it.
Making mouthguards part of your routine (so they don’t end up in the bottom of the bag)
The biggest mouthguard problem isn’t that people buy the wrong one. It’s that they don’t wear the one they have. Comfort and habit are everything.
If you want consistent protection, treat your mouthguard like a helmet or skates: it’s not optional gear, it’s just “part of getting ready.”
Simple habits that make consistent use easier
Keep your mouthguard in the same place as your other essentials—keys, water bottle, shin pads, whatever you never forget. If it lives in a random pocket of your bag, it’s easier to overlook.
Clean it right after use so it’s ready for the next session. If you let it sit dirty, you’ll be less motivated to put it in your mouth next time.
For kids, make it part of the pre-game checklist: mouthguard, helmet, jersey, etc. Consistency turns “nagging” into routine.
What coaches and parents can do to encourage buy-in
Explain the “why” in a way that lands. Instead of “because you have to,” try “because it protects your teeth and makes it less likely you’ll miss games.” That tends to resonate with competitive athletes.
Also, make sure the mouthguard actually fits. If a kid hates their mouthguard, there’s usually a reason: it’s too big, too thick, or it makes them gag. Fix the fit and you fix the compliance.
Finally, normalize it. When team leaders wear mouthguards and keep them in during play, others follow.
Getting a custom mouthguard: what the process is like
People sometimes avoid custom mouthguards because they assume it’s complicated. In reality, it’s usually straightforward: a scan or impression, a short appointment, and then you get a guard designed for your mouth.
If you’ve been struggling with store-bought options, a custom guard can feel like a huge upgrade—especially if you play often.
What you can expect at an appointment
Typically, the dental team checks your teeth and bite, then takes an impression or digital scan. They’ll ask what sport you play and how intense the contact is, because that can affect material choice and thickness.
After that, the mouthguard is made to match your teeth precisely. When it’s ready, you’ll try it on and make sure it feels secure and comfortable. The goal is a fit that doesn’t require clenching and doesn’t interfere with breathing.
If you’re new to custom guards, you’ll probably notice right away that you can talk more easily than with a bulky store-bought guard.
How to plan ahead so you’re not rushing before the season starts
Don’t wait until the day before your first game. Give yourself time for the fitting and for any minor adjustments. This is especially important for kids and teens who may need updates as they grow.
If you’re coordinating for a family, consider scheduling mouthguard appointments around physicals or back-to-school dental visits. Bundling errands makes it easier to stay on top of it.
And if you’re trying to locate a clinic easily before you’re in a hurry, you can find Longo Dentistry clinic location in advance so you know exactly where you’re going.
Quick mouthguard checklist for choosing the right one
If you’ve read this far and want a simple way to decide, here’s a practical checklist you can use when shopping or deciding whether to go custom.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about getting to a mouthguard you’ll wear consistently.
Comfort and fit checks before you commit
Does it stay in place without biting down? Can you breathe comfortably through your mouth? Can you speak well enough for your sport?
Does it cover your teeth and gums without digging in or causing gagging? Are there any sharp edges?
If the answer is “no” to any of these, keep looking. The right guard should feel secure and wearable, not like a punishment.
Protection checks based on sport and history
Are you playing a high-contact sport or something with hard projectiles? If yes, prioritize protection and durability over the cheapest option.
Do you have braces, crowns, veneers, or a history of dental trauma? If yes, lean toward a better fit (often custom) and make sure the design matches your needs.
Are you a frequent athlete? If you’re wearing a mouthguard multiple times per week, comfort and longevity matter more than saving a few dollars upfront.
Care and replacement reality check
Do you have a ventilated case? Will you rinse and brush it after use? If not, choose a plan you’ll actually follow, because hygiene is part of making the mouthguard wearable.
Are you prepared to replace it when it no longer fits or shows wear? Mouthguards are protective gear—like any gear, they wear out.
And if you’re buying for a growing athlete, plan for periodic replacement as part of the season budget.
Protecting your teeth during sports doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you match the mouthguard to your sport, your mouth, and your habits, it becomes one of those simple decisions that quietly pays off every time you play.