The Different Types of Mouthguards: Pros & Cons of each type
- alisonpitt
- Apr 4, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 5
There are several types of mouthguards available, each offering different levels of protection, comfort, and cost. This guide explores the main types of mouthguards used in sport, outlining the pros and cons of each to help athletes, parents, schools, and clubs make informed decisions. Understanding these differences makes it easier to choose protection that suits both the sport and the level of contact involved.
Dental injuries are easily preventable. For athletes playing contact or collision sports, sports mouthguards are widely recommended to help reduce the risk of dental and facial injuries.
Did you know that sports are the cause of about one third of all dental injuries and traumas? That amounts to 200,000 injuries every year that could have been avoided by wearing a protective guard.
Sports-related dental injuries can include:
Chipped or broken teeth
Dislodged or knocked-out teeth
Fractured crowns or bridgework
Cheek and lip injuries
Root damage
Gum lacerations
Regardless of whether you play rugby, hockey, boxing, or martial arts, gum shields /mouthguards are crucial for protecting your teeth. According to the American Dental Association, an effective sports mouthguard should be:
Comfortable
Resilient
Tear-resistant
Durable
Easy to clean
Fits properly
Should not restrict speech
Should not restrict breathing
A sports mouth guard can cost anywhere from a few pounds to £150, so what should you look for when choosing a mouthguard? Let's take a closer look at the three types of gum shields...
The Main Types of Mouthguards Explained
Stock Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are typically inexpensive, ready-made options available in limited sizes, often resulting in a poor fit.
Pros
Inexpensive
Easy to purchase
No fitting process required
Cons
Limited sizing options
Poor fit and reduced protection
Must be held in place by clenching
Can restrict breathing and speech
Often uncomfortable, reducing compliance
Wear down quickly
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a balance between affordability and fit. They are softened in hot water and moulded to the wearer’s teeth, providing a more personalised fit than stock options.
Pros
Mouldable for a better fit
Affordable and widely available
Good balance of comfort and protection
Available in a range of sizes, colours, and flavours
Suitable as a reliable spare mouthguard
Cons
Incorrect fitting can reduce effectiveness
Can feel bulky if not moulded properly
May restrict breathing if poorly fitted
Custom Mouthguards
Custom mouthguards are professionally made by dental specialists using detailed impressions of the teeth and gums. They offer the highest level of fit and protection but are also the most expensive option.
Pros
Individualised fit for maximum protection
Excellent comfort and stability
Customisable design options
Made from durable materials
Cons
Higher cost
Requires dental impressions
Longer production time
It may seem that a mouthguard doesn't have a big impact on your game, but a properly fitted mouthguard can make a big difference on your performance, oxygen intake and communication on the field. Having an uncomfortable sports mouthguard is the last thing you want to worry about before a big game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of mouthguards?
The three main types of mouthguards are stock (ready-made), boil-and-bite, and custom-made mouthguards, each offering different levels of fit, protection, and cost.
Are boil-and-bite mouthguards good enough for sport?
When fitted correctly, boil-and-bite mouthguards provide reliable protection and comfort, making them a popular choice for school and club sport.
Why are stock mouthguards not recommended?
Stock mouthguards often fit poorly, restrict breathing and speech, and may discourage players from wearing them consistently.
Are custom mouthguards worth the cost?
Custom mouthguards offer the best fit and protection but are more expensive and take longer to produce, making them less practical for some athletes.
Understanding the different types of mouthguards makes it easier to choose protection that fits well and supports performance.
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