Athletic mouth protectors: What they really do

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So, why wear a mouth guard?

Let's talk through it like a real person, not a pamphlet.

Protects teeth and gums

When you play hard, football, basketball, rugby, skating, whatever your thing is, your mouth is more vulnerable than you think. Even if you're careful. Even if you “never get hurt.” One bad angle or one unlucky hit can cause chipped teeth, cracked teeth, split lips, or worse. The best sports mouth guards are custom-made.

Prevents serious injuries

A mouthguard steps in like a little shock absorber. It softens the blow. Spreads out the impact. Keeps your jaw from slamming shut too hard. And while nothing can guarantee zero injuries, a good mouthguard lowers the risk in a huge way.

Reduces concussion risk

Some researchers even say it might help lower concussion risk. Not a magic shield, but hey, if there's even a tiny chance something can help your brain be safer, that's a win.

Long-term savings

And here's a fun fact most people don't think about: a single dental injury can cost hundreds or thousands to fix. One mouthguard? Usually under a hundred, unless you go custom (which is completely worth it). Long-term, it saves you money, stress, and pain.

Which sports actually need a mouth guard?

Quick answer? More than people think. But let's talk about it the way athletes talk about things, realistically. Contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, lacrosse, rugby, and soccer? Mouthguards are standard. You're bumping into people constantly. Elbows and knees fly everywhere. There's no warning. Custom mouthguards are the best mouthguards for football.

But then you've got the “non-contact” sports that aren't really non-contact when you think about it. Skateboarding. Mountain biking. Skiing. Gymnastics. Martial arts. Basically, anything where gravity, speed, or another person can surprise you.

Honestly, if there's even a small chance something can smack you in the face, a mouthguard belongs in your gear bag.

Let's talk mouthguard types

There are three main types, but they're not created equal.

Stock mouthguards

These are the kind you grab off the shelf. Cheap. Fast. And unfortunately… usually awful. They never fit right, feel bulky, and half the time you're biting them just to keep them in place. Better than nothing. But only just.

Boil-and-bite guard

These are the next step up. You heat them, bite into them, and they mould to your teeth. These are the ones kids and teens usually use. They're fine. Not perfect, not terrible.

Custom-fitted mouthguards

These are the top tier. The best athletic mouth guards. They are made by a dentist using impressions or a 3D scan. They are:

They don't flap around. They don't fall out. They don't make you gag. They just… fit. And because they fit properly, they do their job better. If you're serious about your sport, this is the kind you want.

Things people don't tell you about mouthguards

This is the stuff athletes usually learn the hard way.

A mouthguard shouldn't feel like you're chewing a rubber sponge. If it hurts, rubs your gums raw, or keeps slipping, it's not the right one. A good mouthguard should almost disappear in your mouth, not literally, but you should kind of forget you're wearing it after a few minutes.

Dentists can help you pick the right thickness and shape depending on your sport. Someone playing rugby needs something different from someone doing martial arts. Braces? Dental work? That changes everything, too.

The other thing people forget: mouthguards don't last forever. They get chewed on, worn down, stretched out, or just… gross. Once it starts feeling loose or looking tired, it's time for a new one. Especially for kids and teens whose teeth are constantly moving.

And hygiene? Please, please clean it. It only takes a minute. Rinse it when you take it out. Use mild soap. Keep it in a ventilated case. Don't toss it in the bottom of your gym bag next to your sweaty socks and expect it to stay clean. You can take good care of your mouth guard with almost no effort, and it'll last way longer.

When is it time to replace your mouthguard?

No matter how well you can take good care of your mouth guard, it will eventually need replacement. Here's the honest rule: if you're starting to wonder whether it's time for a new mouthguard… it probably is. But let's break it down anyway, because a lot of people don't realise how quickly these things wear out. A mouthguard should fit snugly, feel secure, and stay put without you clenching your teeth to hold it in place. Once it stops doing that, the protection drops fast.

Here are the clear signs it's time for a replacement:

A mouthguard only works when it fits properly. Once it doesn't? It's just a piece of plastic sitting in your mouth, and it won't protect you when you need it most.

So… do you really need a mouthguard?

If you play hard, train often, or even just enjoy high-energy activities, the answer is almost always yes. A mouthguard is one of those tiny pieces of gear that looks simple but saves you from big, expensive, painful problems later. Broken teeth. Split lips. Jaw injuries. All avoidable.

And the truth is, the right mouthguard doesn't just protect you, it lets you play with confidence. No hesitation. No “what if I get hit?” drama in the back of your mind. Just focus and performance.

If you want real comfort and real protection, a Caspersmile custom sports mouthguard is your best bet. It fits better, feels better, and it actually does its job.

And when the game's over? Your smile still needs protection. If you clench or grind at night (a lot of athletes do without realising it), a Caspersmile night guard keeps your teeth safe while you sleep, because your mouth shouldn't take damage on or off the field.

Frequently asked questions

Can you use a dental mouthguard for sports? +

No. Dental night guards are for grinding, not impact. They can crack if used in sports.

What sports need mouthguards? +

Football, basketball, hockey, rugby, martial arts, skating, basically any sport where your face can get hit.

Why do athletes wear them? +

To protect their teeth, lips, and jaw from impact. One hit can cause serious damage without one.

Can you wear a mouth guard in soccer? +

Yes. It's not required, but many players wear one for safety.

Why do NFL players let their mouthpieces hang? +

Most are attached to the helmet strap, so they dangle when players aren't actively using them.

What is the difference between a mouth guard and a sports guard? +

A sports guard absorbs impact. A night guard protects against grinding. Different materials, different purposes.

Why do NBA players not wear mouthguards? +

It's personal preference. Some don't like the feel, but many players still use them.

What is an athletic mouth guard? +

A protective device worn during sports to absorb impact and shield your teeth, gums, and jaw.