How to Pick the Perfect Mouthguard for Your Athlete

As a coach, I get asked frequently for the best mouth guards for field hockey, with braces and without. It is not only a safety measure for athletes but also a rule that all field hockey players must wear them. When it comes to protecting young athletes, a mouth guard is one of the most essential pieces of equipment. Whether your child plays contact sports like football, hockey, or basketball, or participates in non-contact sports where accidental impacts can occur, a well-fitted mouth guard can prevent serious dental and facial injuries. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a guide to picking the perfect mouthguard for your athlete, regardless of the sport. 

1. Understand the Importance of a Mouthguard

Mouth guards do more than protect teeth; they also cushion the jaw and can help prevent concussions by absorbing shock. Choosing the right one is critical to ensure your child is both safe and comfortable during play.

2. Know the Different Types of Mouthguards

There are three main types of mouthguards, each with its pros and cons:

Stock Mouthguards:
These are pre-formed and ready to wear right out of the package. While they’re the most affordable option, they often provide a poor fit and limited protection.

Best for: Beginners or those in non-contact sports.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards:
Made from thermoplastic material, these can be softened in hot water and then molded to the athlete’s teeth. They offer a better fit than stock guards and are widely available at sporting goods stores.

Best for: Athletes seeking a balance between affordability and customization.

Custom-Fitted Mouthguards:
These are made by a dentist or orthodontist using a mold of the athlete’s teeth. They provide the best fit, comfort, and protection but are also the most expensive.

Best for: Serious athletes or those with braces.

3. Consider the Sport

The type of sport your child plays will influence the level of protection needed.

High-Impact Sports: Football, hockey, and rugby require mouthguards with maximum shock absorption.

Moderate-Impact Sports: Sports like basketball or soccer benefit from a well-fitted boil-and-bite or custom mouth guard.

Low-Impact Sports: Even in sports like gymnastics or skateboarding, a basic mouth guard can protect against accidental falls.

4. Check for a Proper Fit

A mouth guard should fit snugly over the teeth without causing discomfort or interfering with breathing and speaking. Here’s how to check:

Secure Fit: It should stay in place without the athlete needing to bite down.

Coverage: It should cover all teeth, especially the molars, for full protection.

Comfort: Your athlete should be able to talk and breathe easily while wearing it.

5. Look for Durable Materials

Choose a mouthguard made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand repeated impacts. Medical-grade silicone or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) are common materials used for their strength and flexibility.

6. Consider Special Needs

For Braces: Look for orthodontic mouthguards designed to accommodate brackets and wires.

Allergies: Ensure the mouth guard is free from latex or other materials your child may be allergic to.

7. Evaluate Maintenance Requirements

A good mouthguard is easy to clean and maintain. Check for:

Cleaning Instructions: Most can be cleaned with soap and water or special cleaning tablets.

Storage Case: A ventilated case is essential to keep the mouthguard dry and bacteria-free.

8. Involve Your Athlete in the Decision

Let your child try on different options and provide feedback on comfort and fit. If they’re excited about the color or design, they’ll be more likely to wear it consistently.

9. Budget Wisely

While custom mouthguards are the gold standard, boil-and-bite options can be a cost-effective alternative for growing athletes who may need frequent replacements.

Wrap Up!

A well-chosen mouthguard is an investment in your athlete’s safety and confidence on the field or court. By understanding their sport, fit needs, and personal preferences, you can find the perfect balance of comfort and protection.

What type of mouthguard does your athlete use? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!

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About the author: 

Amy Masters is a sports mom, coach, and club administrator. She has been coaching youth sports for more than 10 years. She started Jr Lions Field Hockey, the youth recreation program for the Hunterdon County community growing it from 40 players in year 1 to 150 players by year 3. A few years later, she saw the love and competitiveness grow then started Omega Field Hockey Club serving NJ and PA players. Before coaching, she was a collegiate field hockey player for Lock Haven University. In her spare time (lol), she is head of marketing for iSport360 and the co-editor of the Youth Sports Survival Guide. The Youth Sports Survival Guide is the largest youth sports newsletter in the world.