Frequently Asked Questions

Mouthguards

Date Posted: 12/1/2001

Question For which sports is a mouthguard recommended?

Answer Mouthguards should be worn during any sport where there is the chance of a knock to the face. There are three types of sport when we consider the chance of injury: 1. Contact sports where contact is part of the game. These include football, rugby, martial arts and boxing. The mouthguard should be compulsory. 2. Collision sports where contact often happens but it is not expected or allowed. These include basketball, hockey, water polo, lacrosse, netball, baseball, softball, squash, soccer, BMX bike riding, horseriding, skateboarding, in-line skating, trampolining, cricket (wicket keeping or batting without a helmet), water skiing and snow ski racing. A mouthguard is highly recommended. 3. Non-contact sports where contact is a rare occurrence. These include such sports as tennis where a mouthguard is not needed. Mouthguards should be worn during all competitions as well as during training sessions, as this is when many injuries occur. This should be stressed to children in junior teams.

More questions in this category:

What is a mouthguard?
Are there different types of mouthguards?
Do mouthguards come in different colours?
For which sports is a mouthguard recommended?
How do I care for my mouthguard?
How long will my mouthguard last?
How much will a custom fitted mouthguard cost?
Where are mouthguards available?
Why do I need a mouthguard?
Will a mouthguard affect my speech or breathing?
What if my child has bands on the teeth?