When you're into combat sports or martial arts, having a mouth guard is super important to keep your mouth, jaw, and teeth safe from injuries. Honestly, who enjoys going to the dentist, right? You usually only need to wear a mouth guard during sparring and competitions since that's when you might take some hits to the head. But some folks prefer to wear one all the time while training because it helps them feel like they're really in a fight. Plus, getting used to wearing it more often can make it feel more comfortable over time. So, it’s key to find a good gum shield that stays put and protects you during sparring and fights. Here’s a handy guide on mouth guards and how to pick the right one for you.
Mouthguards protect your teeth from bumps and hits, but they come with other perks too:
You generally have three choices for martial arts mouthguards: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made. The single-arch mouthguard fits the upper arch, while the double-arch covers both the upper and lower arches.
These are designed to fit either adults or kids, but since they don’t mold to your mouth shape, it’s best to skip them for sparring in Muay Thai or other striking sports.
These are a step up from the basic ones. After you buy one, you boil it in water, let it cool, then bite down on it to mold it around your teeth. They’re cheaper than custom ones, but they don’t last as long and might not offer as much protection. Still, they’re usually fine for most sparring.
These are made to fit your mouth perfectly, providing the best protection since they’re crafted just for you. If you compete or spar pretty intensely, this is the mouthguard you want.
Mouthguards also vary in materials, like EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), gel, rubber, or different combos. Depending on what they’re made of, they can feel different in your mouth.
Mouthguards usually come in one size since they mold to your teeth, but there are also junior sizes for kids. We talked about single and double mouthguards earlier. Some athletes prefer double-arched ones for more protection, while others find them too restrictive for breathing. Typically, single mouthguards are the most popular, but it’s worth trying both to see what feels best for you.
The right mouthguard helps protect your mouth from serious injuries. They might seem like they just guard your teeth, but they also keep your lips, tongue, face, and jaw safe. That makes them essential for both competition and sparring. You’re bound to get hit in the face during a match. And even in sparring, which is supposed to be more chill, things can get a bit rough, and you might take a harder hit than you thought. Without a mouth guard, you could end up with a loose, knocked-out, or chipped tooth. A chipped tooth can even cut your lips or tongue.
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When you're buying a mouthguard for martial arts, there are three things to think about. First off, can you breathe with it on? This is super important since you'll be working hard and breathing a lot through your mouth. Make sure it doesn’t block your airflow. Second, will it stay in place? A mouthguard is pretty much useless if it keeps falling out. Third, is it comfortable? If you’re going to wear it for hours, it should feel good; otherwise, you might not want to keep it in.
It wouldn’t be right to say one mouthguard is better than another. The best one is the one that fits your mouth the best! For beginners, it’s a good idea to stick to well-known brands like Leone 1947, Venum, or Shock Doctor, which offer quality mouthguards for combat sports at various price points. If you’re new to combat sports, grab a basic mouthguard like the Leone Basic or Leone Titan. Over time, you’ll get a feel for what you need, and you can upgrade to something more professional if needed. Since mouthguards are pretty affordable, you might want to buy a couple to see which one works for you.
You can find mouthguards at sports equipment and martial arts stores, especially the boil-and-bite types. If you want a custom one, you’ll need to shop online or go to a dentist. Usually, a company will send you a mold to make at home. After you return the mold, they’ll send your mouthguard back to you. You can also go to certain dentists for the same process. Here are some popular mouthguard brands:
So, most mouthguards can be molded in hot water to fit your teeth better and feel comfy. Here’s a simple way to do it:
If it’s too hot, you can run it under cold water for a bit before putting it in your mouth. Once it’s in, press it over your teeth with your fingers and close your mouth with some pressure. You can also suck on it a little to get rid of any air or saliva. After about 10 seconds, open your mouth. If you did it right, the mouthguard should stick to your teeth. Carefully take it off and put it in water to cool down completely.
For a single-arch mouthguard, it should fit snugly even when your mouth is open. If it falls off or sags when you open your mouth, it’s not molded right. You can redo the process up to three times if needed. If the mouthguard is too long and bothers you, you can trim it down with scissors or a knife before boiling it.
Mouthguards aren’t meant to last forever, but you can do a few things to keep them in good shape.
Keep these tips in mind when you’re shopping for a mouthguard.
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Picking the right boxing mouthguard is super important for staying safe and performing well in the ring. No matter if you’re just starting out or you’re a pro, knowing the different types of mouthguards—like boil-and-bite or custom-fitted—can really help with comfort and protection. Think about what you need, like how much impact you expect and your budget, when making your choice. A good mouthguard not only protects your teeth and jaw but also helps you feel more confident, so you can focus on your skills and game plan. Getting the right mouthguard now can save you from expensive dental problems and injuries later on. So, take some time to find the mouthguard that works best for you—your future self will appreciate it.
This content was created by AI