What types of mouthguards are there is a frequently asked question in the store. In the store, we often experience that (unfortunately) many martial artists underestimate the importance of a mouthguard.
A common phrase is: "You are not allowed to strike the head (yet) in our gym." However, this often still happens—especially with 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 mainly due to the term mouthguard or bitje.
Mouthguards are not only there to protect the teeth and mouth, but can even prevent jaw fractures and brain injuries.
A good mouthguard protects against all these possible injuries. Moreover, it is often not the impact on the teeth that causes the problem, but the teeth hitting each other. A piece of tooth can easily break off.
There are many different types of mouthguards, ranging from a few euros to hundreds of euros for a custom-made mouthguard by a dentist.
Even the simplest mouthguard already offers good protection and will be sufficient for most athletes.
These "boil-and-bite" mouthguards are made of thermoplastic material (often silicone). They are softened briefly in hot water and then immediately bitten into by the user.
This only needs to be done the first time they are used. After each use, the mouthguard can simply be rinsed off.
Shockdoctor
The best mouthguards are made by, among others, ShockDoctor. ShockDoctor is a renowned brand that offers protectors not only for martial arts but also for many other contact sports where there are risks.
Think of hockey, ice hockey, and rugby. So feel free to spend a few extra euros on a good quality mouthguard. New in our assortment are the Shock Doctor Gel Max Power mouthguards: good quality mouthguards at reasonable prices.
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For people with braces, we have an affordable option also from ShockDoctor: The SDM Smoke. Normally, braces mouthguards are very expensive, but this braces mouthguard is very reasonably priced.
Our advice
Always train with a mouthguard in! Of course, this is not necessary during the warm-up, but as soon as you do exercises with a partner and certainly when sparring!
We even have tasty mouthguards. The Shock Doctor mouthguard with mint flavor, for example. The answer to the question: What types of mouthguards are there?
Many, indeed.
