Why Players Stop Wearing Gumshields & How Better Comfort Solves the Problem

A gumshield only works when it's worn

Most coaches, teachers and parents understand the importance of wearing a gumshield during sport. Unfortunately, many players remove their gumshield during training sessions, forget to wear it during matches, or leave it at the bottom of their kit bag altogether.

In many cases, the reason isn't that players don't understand the risks, it's simply because their gumshield isn't comfortable.

The good news is that most comfort issues can be easily solved with the right fit and proper moulding.

If you're unsure whether a gumshield has been fitted correctly, our Gumshield Fitting Guide: How to Get the Perfect Fit First Time can help.

Why Players Stop Wearing Gumshields: The Most Common Reasons

Here's why players stop wearing gumshields and what you can do about it.

1. It Feels Too Big and Bulky

One of the most common complaints, particularly among younger players, is that a gumshield feels too large in the mouth.

A poorly fitted gumshield can make players feel like they're constantly aware of it, distracting them from the game and making them less likely to wear it consistently.

A properly moulded boil-and-bite gumshield should fit snugly around the teeth and gums, reducing unnecessary movement and creating a much more comfortable fit.

2. It's Difficult to Breathe

Players often assume that all gumshields make breathing harder. In reality, a correctly fitted gumshield should allow players to breathe comfortably during training and competition.

Problems usually occur when a gumshield hasn't been moulded properly and sits loosely in the mouth, forcing the player to constantly reposition it.

A secure fit helps players breathe naturally and focus on their performance rather than their equipment.

Many breathing and comfort issues can be traced back to poor moulding. Read our blog on Why Proper Gumshield Fit Matters More Than You Think to learn more.

3. It Makes Talking Difficult

Communication is a vital part of many sports, whether it's calling for a pass in football, organising a defensive line in rugby, or coordinating play in hockey.

When a gumshield is loose or poorly fitted, speaking can become frustrating and unclear.

A well-fitted gumshield stays securely in place, allowing players to communicate more effectively with teammates and coaches throughout the game.

4. It Keeps Falling Out

A gumshield should stay in place without the player needing to bite down constantly.

If a player finds themselves repeatedly adjusting their gumshield or worrying that it might fall out, it's a strong indication that the fit isn't correct.

A properly moulded gumshield should remain secure even when the mouth is open, providing both comfort and confidence during play.

If your gumshield feels loose, uncomfortable or regularly falls out during training and matches, it's worth checking whether it's fitted correctly. Our guide, Are You Protected? How To Make Sure Your Mouthguard Fits, explains the simple checks every player should make to ensure their gumshield is providing the protection it's designed to deliver.

5. It's Old and No Longer Fits Properly

For junior players especially, teeth and jaw structures can change surprisingly quickly.

A gumshield that fitted perfectly last season may now feel uncomfortable, loose or ineffective.

Regularly checking the fit of a gumshield and replacing it when necessary helps ensure continued comfort and protection.

Signs that a replacement may be needed include:

• The gumshield feels loose

• Visible signs of wear or damage

• Changes in the player's teeth

• Difficulty keeping the gumshield in place

Why Comfort Matters

An uncomfortable gumshield often ends up unused.

A comfortable gumshield is far more likely to be worn consistently, which ultimately means better protection on the pitch, court or training ground.

The most effective gumshield isn't necessarily the most expensive one, it's the one that fits properly, feels comfortable and becomes a natural part of a player's kit.

The Game Guard Difference

At Game Guard, our UK-made boil-and-bite gumshields are designed to provide reliable protection while remaining comfortable to wear.

Available in a range of colours and flavours, they're easy to mould at home and supplied with clear fitting instructions to help achieve the best possible fit.

Whether you're buying for an individual player, a school or an entire sports club, ensuring players have a comfortable gumshield is one of the simplest ways to improve both safety and compliance.

Final Thoughts

If players regularly remove their gumshield, struggle to wear it comfortably or complain about breathing and communication issues, the problem is often the fit rather than the gumshield itself.

Taking the time to mould a gumshield correctly and replacing it when necessary can make a significant difference to both comfort and protection.

Because when a gumshield feels right, players are far more likely to wear it every time they step onto the field.

Better Comfort Means Better Protection

A gumshield can't protect a player if it's sitting in a kit bag or being removed during a match.

Game Guard Gumshields are designed to deliver the comfort, fit and protection players need to wear them with confidence every time they take to the field, pitch or court.

✅ UK Made

✅ CE & UKCA Approved

✅ Available in Junior and Adult Sizes

✅ Choice of Colours and Flavours

✅ Ideal for Schools, Clubs and Individual Players

Explore the full Game Guard range today and discover why thousands of players trust Game Guard for comfortable, reliable protection.

Pack of 10 - Game Guard Gumshields - Mixed Colours

£24.95

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do players stop wearing gumshields?

The most common reasons players stop wearing gumshields are poor fit, discomfort, difficulty breathing, problems communicating and gumshields that repeatedly fall out during play. A properly fitted gumshield is far more likely to be worn consistently.

How can I make my gumshield more comfortable?

Following the fitting instructions carefully is the best way to improve comfort. A correctly moulded boil-and-bite gumshield should fit snugly around the teeth, stay in place without biting down and allow comfortable breathing and communication.

Should a gumshield stay in place without biting?

Yes. A properly fitted gumshield should remain securely in position without the player needing to constantly bite down or hold it in place.

How often should a gumshield be replaced?

Junior players should check their gumshield regularly as their teeth and jaw can change quickly. Gumshields should also be replaced if they become damaged, loose or no longer fit comfortably.

Are boil-and-bite gumshields comfortable?

When fitted correctly, boil-and-bite gumshields provide an excellent balance of comfort, protection and affordability, making them a popular choice for schools, clubs and individual players.