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Looking to protect your pearly-whites from the savages in the scrum, but not sure which mouthguards are up to the job? As rugby aficionados, we’ve done the hard work to make sure you’re fully protected on the field!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s find the perfect mouthguard for you and get you ready to play with confidence!
#1. What’s all the fuss about Rugby Mouthguards?
#2. Factors to Consider when Choosing Your Mouthgaurd
#3. The Best Mouthguards in the Game
#4. How to Find and Fit the Perfect Mouthguard
#5. How to Care for Your Rugby Mouthguard
#6. Maximizing On-Field Protection
#1. Why are Mouthguards so important in Rugby?
If you’re already familiar with the role and purpose of rugby mouthguards, feel free to skip ahead. However, if you’re new to the game or simply need a quick refresher, we’re here to help!
A Rugby Mouthguard, a vital piece of equipment, could be the difference between a regular game and an unplanned trip to the dentist!
Typically made from a flexible material known as Ethylene-vinyl acetate (or EVA for short), this material employs both soft and hard layers within the mouthguard. These layers work in tandem to evenly distribute forces upon impact, ensuring enduring protection, durability, and resistance to tearing.
In fact, Makurasport presents an eye-opening statistic: players who opt not to wear a mouthguard are 1.6 to 1.9 times more likely to suffer from orofacial trauma. This includes injuries to the mouth and face, such as displaced or fractured teeth, mouth or tongue cuts, and facial bone fractures.
Moreover, since the mandatory use of mouthguards in New Zealand in 1997, World Rugby reports a significant 47% decrease in rugby-related dental claims. They also discovered that mouthguards can reduce the risk of concussion by 20 percent.
Now, those are statistics worth noting!
#2. What should I look for when Choosing a Mouthguard?
When it comes to choosing the right mouthguard to protect your smile, it’s easy to get sidetracked by the flashy features and “enhanced protection” that some brands prominently display on their packaging without explaining why…
However, when it comes to your teeth, they deserve nothing but the best. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Comfort vs Protection
A superior mouthguard should not only be comfortable to wear but also provide adequate protection.
Material
The material can influence its durability, comfort, and fit. Keep this in mind. Some materials include EVA, Silicone, Rubber, or Polyurethane.
Mouthguard Thickness
The thickness of the mouthguard can impact the level of protection it offers. While thicker mouthguards provide more protection, they can also be uncomfortable to wear.
Braces
If you wear braces, this is a critical factor to consider. We recommend the brand Opro if you’re seeking the perfect balance between functionality and affordability.
Easy to Clean
Ideally, the mouthguard should be easy to clean as maintaining oral hygiene is crucial.
Personalisation
Although it’s the last thing on the list, personalisation can be important to some people who prefer to show off their team colours, logo, or unique design. But hey, that’s entirely up to you at the end of the day!
#3. The Best Mouth Guards in the Game!
There’s a lot to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to our Top 3.
Opro
Founded in 1997 by Dr Anhtony Lovat, Opro Moutguards quickly rose to become the pioneer in oral protection and have even supplied their gum shields to the likes of England Rugby, New Zealand Rugby and even the UFC, while also serving over 10 million athletes around the world.
Available in a wide range of colours, the Opro Self Fit Moutguard utilises anatomically positioned fins that soften when the Mouthguard is boiled to mould around the teeth for a bespoke fit.
Shockdoctor
Another excellent brand that is committed to ensuring your pearly-whites stay protected – Shockdoctor!
Labelling themselves as “the undisputed leader in mouthguard technology”, aswell as the “#1 moutguard in the world”, Shockdoctor have made waves with their performance-driven mouthguards, earning the esteem of Pro and Youth athletes world wide.
Our personal favourite is the Shock Doctor Gel Max Mouth Guard as it delivers exceptional comfort and protection, all while donning a low-profile design that ensures a snug, natural fit with a re-inforced inner grid for maximum protection.
Wearers of braces, we haven’t forgotten about you, and neither have Shock Doctor!
For an enhanced fit that doesn’t compromise on comfort, the Ultra Braces Mouthguard utilises a patented “Insta-Fit Plus” system to allow athletes to mold and re-mold the mouthguard as your teeth continue to adjust through orthodontic treatment.
Pair this with its triple-layer protection and you’re well on your way towards a distraction-free game!
#4. Finding your Fit: How to Fit a Traditional Mouthguard
If you’re opting for a traditional “Boil and Bite” EVA mouthguard, we’ve got you covered with a step by step guide to ensure you find the perfect fit first time!
Gently Prepare the Mouthguard:
- Submerge the gumshield in boiling water for approximately 30 seconds to soften it.
- Using tongs, carefully lift it out of the water and shake off any residual water.
- Position the gumshield over your upper teeth, making sure it aligns properly within your mouth.
Securing the Fit
- To adapt the mouthguard to the contours of your teeth, position your thumb inside your mouth and apply gentle suction.
- Press your lower teeth onto the mouthguard, then use your finger on the outside to shape the mouthguard against your upper teeth.
- Repeat these steps as necessary until the mouthguard stays in place comfortably.
Final Adjustments
- If adjustments are needed, use sharp scissors to trim any excess material from the mouthguard.
- For a polished finish, briefly hold the cut edges over a flame (be careful!) and then gently smooth them with your finger.
#5. Caring for your Rugby Mouthguard
Cleaning and maintaining your mouthguard is a crucial practice if you’re looking to ensure its longevity and your oral health.
There’s numerous ways in which to do it, so no excuses!
Toothpaste Method:
If you’ve got a spare toothbrush handy, this is one of the easiest ways to keep your gumshield clean!
- Rinse the mouthguard in cool water.
- Apply a small amount of non-abrasive toothpase to a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Gently brush the mouthguard with a toothbrush until soapy.
- Rinse off the Toothpaste and dry.
Soap & Water Method:
Another method that doesn’t require a day out to the shops!
- Rinse the mouthguard in cool water.
- Apply a small amount of mild, alchohol free-soap to your mouthguard.
- Gently brush the mouthguard with a toothbrush until soapy.
- Rinse off the Soap and allow to dry.
Baking Soda Method:
- Combine equal parts baking soda and water into a small bowl until you form a paste.
- Dip your toothbrush into the past and gently brush your mouthhguard.
- Rinse off with cool water and let it dry.
6.Maximising your On-Field Protection
While your mouthguard is vital for protecting your teeth and reducing the risk of concussions, there’s more you can do to stay safe on the rugby field. From headguards to body armour, rugby protection gear helps minimize injury and keeps you performing at your best.
For an in-depth look at all the essential gear you need to stay safe, check out our comprehensive guide: Rugby Safety Made Easy: A Complete Guide to Protective Gear. Learn how headguards, body armour, and other equipment can take your on-field protection to the next level.