What types of mouthguards are available is a frequently asked question in the shop. In the shop, we often find that (unfortunately) many martial artists underestimate the importance of a mouthguard.
A commonly heard phrase is: "We are not (yet) allowed to strike to the head." However, this often still happens—especially among beginner martial artists—albeit unintentionally.
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Function and importance of a mouthguard
The function of a mouthguard is also not entirely clear to many people. This is largely due to the term mouthguard.
Mouthguards are not only intended to protect the teeth and mouth, but can even prevent jaw fractures and brain injuries.
A good mouthguard protects against all these potential injuries. In addition, it is often not the impact to the teeth that causes the problem, but the teeth hitting each other. A piece of tooth can easily break off as a result.
There are many different types of mouthguards, ranging from a few euros to hundreds of euros for a custom-made mouthguard fitted by a dentist.
Even the most basic mouthguard offers excellent protection and will be sufficient for most athletes.
These "boil-and-bite" mouthguards are made from thermoplastic material (often silicone). They are softened in hot water for a short time and then immediately bite-fitted by the user.
This only needs to be done the first time you use it. After each use, the mouthguard can simply be rinsed.
ShockDoctor
The best mouthguards are made by brands including ShockDoctor. ShockDoctor is a renowned brand that offers protection not only for martial arts, but also for many other contact sports where there are risks.
These include hockey, ice hockey and rugby. So feel free to spend a few extra euros on a good-quality mouthguard. New to our range are the Shock Doctor Gel Max Power mouthguards: high-quality mouthguards at reasonable prices.
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For people with braces, we also have an affordable option from ShockDoctor: the SDM Smoke. Normally, braces mouthguards are very expensive, but this mouthguard for braces is very reasonably priced.
Our advice
Always train with a mouthguard! This is of course not necessary during the warm-up, but it is once you start doing exercises with a partner—and certainly when sparren!
We even have great-tasting mouthguards. For example, the Shock Doctor mouthguard with mint flavor. The answer to the question: What types of mouthguards are available?
Quite a lot.
