Football Mouthguards 101: Everything Players Need to Know
Football mouthguards were designed to help prevent dental injuries. Because football is a contact sport, there was a need to keep teeth safe from the impact of repeated hard hits around the jaw and head area. In a study by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the occurrence of fractured teeth was over 10 times higher for players who didn’t wear a mouthguard. Two of the key factors in selecting the right mouthguard are knowing what your needs are and comfort. Typically, linemen wear mouth guards that are sturdier and heavier for added protection while skilled players like quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs opt for lighter, more streamlined mouthguards that allow them to communicate easily and run without having their air flow inhibited.
History of Mouthguards
A version of a mouthguard first appeared in the late 1800s in the form of a piece of wood that boxers clenched in their mouth to help protect their teeth. The early mouthguards were distracting for boxers, who found it difficult to concentrate on boxing with a mouthful of wood. Over time, mouthguards evolved into an effective tool to help protect boxers’ mouths.
In a 1921 fight between Jack Britton and Ted Lewis, a reusable mouthguard with gum shield technology was used by Britton but was banned later after Lewis’ manager complained that it gave Britton an unfair advantage. By the 1930s, boxers were regularly using mouthpieces. In 1927, in a fight between Mike McTigue and Jack Sharkey, the bout was cut short after McTeague fractured his tooth from a Sharkey punch. Mouthguards became standard for boxers after the fight.
In 1947, the first molded mouthguard was created by Rodney O. Linquist, a Los Angeles dentist. In the 1940s, dental injuries were thought to make up to 50% of football injuries. By 1960, the American Dental Association recommended mouth guards for all contact sports.
Types of Football Mouthguards
When shopping for a mouthguard, there are several factors to consider: Price, comfort, and the quality of the mouthguard. A beginning football player might be well served with a stock mouthguard while an experienced player might want a custom-fit mouthguard. Below are descriptions of the 3 types of mouthguards.
Stock Mouthguard: A stock mouthguard is predesigned and can’t be modified to fit the contour of your mouth. Stock mouthguards can typically be bought in 3 sizes: small, medium, or large. They’re the least expensive mouthguard option. Because there’s no unique fitting, a stock mouthguard can be uncomfortable for some people who don’t have a mouth that fits one of their sizes.
Boil-and-Bite: A boil-and-bite mouthguard is a customized piece that’s designed by dropping the piece in boiling water. After the mouthguard is boiled, you fit it into your mouth and bite it down, leaving an impression that should fit comfortably over your upper and lower teeth line. Once you’ve created your impression, the mouthguard needs to be dropped into cold water, where it’ll set permanently.
Custom Fit Mouthguard: A custom fit mouthguard is typically designed by a dentist, and it’s made of thermoplastic material that’s from a mold of your mouth. The mold gives players a precise replica of their mouth area. Custom fit mouthguards are adjustable, meaning that a player can have it altered for a better fit after the mouthguard has been used.
Different positions typically wear mouthguards that are targeted to their needs. Linemen might wear mouthguards that are 6 millimeters thick while a running back or quarterback could opt for one that’s around 3 mm thick. The thicker mouthguard offers more protection for the players who are in direct physical contact with their opponents on every play. Linemen often have strap-on mouthguards. These mouthguards are attached to their face masks. They can take the mouthguard out when they huddle without having to use their hands. Quarterbacks and running backs typically use thinner mouthguards so they can communicate better. Thinner mouthguards provide better airflow for players who need to sprint more.
Football Rules & Mouthguards
In 1962, mouthguards became mandatory for high school football players. In 1973, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) required mouthguards. The National Football League doesn’t require mouthguards. The standards and purposes for mouthguards are different for different levels of football. Below is a description of mouthguard use in high school, college, and the NFL.
High School: Mouthguards must fit properly and “separate the biting surfaces of the teeth, protect the lips and gum, and fully cover the upper teeth,” according to the NFHS. The mouthguard can’t include any parts that are non-functional or for decorative purposes.
College: Players must wear a brightly colored, properly fitted mouthguard that’s made of a Federal Drug Association (FDA) compliant material that helps reduce impact from hits. The mouthguard should at least cover your upper set of teeth.
NFL: Since mouthguards aren’t mandatory, there aren’t formal recommendations for mouthguard standards for the league. Some players use colorful mouthguards as a fashion statement or even to intimidate their opponents.
The reasons many NFL players don’t use mouthguards are because they don’t feel like they look good and the belief that helmets offer enough protection for their teeth and head area.
Mouthguard Do’s & Don’ts
It can be tricky finding the right fit for your mouthguard if you’re a beginner. The best way to figure out what works is to use one in practice for a few days. For experienced players, investing in a custom-made mouthguard is likely worth it. Below are some common errors players make with their mouthguards.
Improper Fit: If the mouthguard impedes your breathing or is too tight or too loose, it can be uncomfortable and hinder your performance.
Wrong Type: Skilled players need mouthguards that are sleeker and lighter and that allow them to breathe through bursts of speed. Linemen need heavier mouthguards that can stand up to the consistent pounding they take. It’s important to make sure you look for a mouthguard that fits your position.
Poor Quality: If you can bite or chew through your mouthguard, it’s likely made of an inferior material. Mouthguards should last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on the quality.
Chewing: Avoid excessive chewing on your mouthguard. Not only can you damage the mouthguard, but it can also be detrimental to your teeth.
Heat: Exposing your mouthguard to high heat can cause it to melt, which could alter its form.
Clean: Use soap and water to clean your mouthguard after every use. This helps remove bacteria and prevents possible infections.
Getting the right mouthguard is an essential part of being properly equipped for high school and college football players.