Why a mouthguard is indispensable in combat sports

The importance of a mouthguard for athletes Beim Kampfsport wie Boxen, Kickboxen, Muay Thai, MMA oder BJJ sind Treffer ins Gesicht keine Seltenheit. Ein hochwertiger Mouthguard not only protects the teeth but also the jaw and surrounding soft tissue from injury. But not only in combat sports — in sports like hockey, handball, or American football a mouthguard is also essential to minimize the risk of injury.

What injuries does a mouthguard prevent? Without a dental guard, serious injuries can occur quickly, including:

• Knocked-out or fractured teeth
• Jaw fractures or sprains
• Injuries to the lips, tongue, and inner cheeks
• Concussions from impact to the jaw

Studies show that a well-fitting mouthguard can reduce the risk of such injuries by up to 60%.

Types of mouthguards There are different types of mouthguards that vary in material, fit, and level of protection:

1. Stock mouthguard

   • Preformed and ready to use
   • Low protection because they are not individually fitted
   • Cost: approx. 5 to 15 CHF

2. Boil & Bite mouthguard

   • Must be heated in hot water and custom-fitted
   • Better fit than a stock guard
   • Cost: approx. 15 to 50 CHF

3. Custom-made mouthguard

   • Produced by a dentist or dental lab based on a dental impression
   • Perfect fit and maximum protection
   • Cost: approx. 150 to 300 CHF

Which mouthguard is best? For recreational and amateur athletes a high-quality Boil & Bite mouthguard is a good choice. Professionals should opt for a custom-made mouthguard, as it provides the best protection and a perfect fit.

Care of a mouthguard To keep the mouthguard durable and hygienic, observe the following points:

• Rinse with cold water after each use
• Regularly clean with a toothbrush and soap (no toothpaste!)
• Store dry, preferably in a ventilated case
• Protect from extreme heat (e.g., do not leave in the car)

Conclusion A Mouthguard is an indispensable piece of protective equipment for anyone practicing combat sports or other high-risk sports. The right choice depends on individual needs and sport level. While a Boil & Bite mouthguard is sufficient for many, professionals should choose a custom-made option to ensure the best possible protection and comfort.