Hockey mouthguards

Is wearing a hockey mouthguard mandatory?

Unfortunately, accidents with a hockey ball or stick can happen on the field, so it's very important to protect your teeth properly! A mouthguard ensures that your teeth are well shielded, minimizing the chance of (irreversible) damage. Wearing a hockey mouthguard, both indoors and on the field, has been mandatory since the 2015/2016 season.

What is a good hockey mouthguard?

The most important thing is that the hockey mouthguard fits well to your teeth and stays in place during the game. Hockey mouthguards come in different types: standard mouthguards, Boil & Bite mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards. The standard mouthguard is the most affordable option; you just need to put it in and clean it after use. Boil & Bite mouthguards are slightly more expensive; you boil them before use, and after 10 seconds, you place the mouthguard in your mouth, and it will mold to your teeth and mouth. A custom-made mouthguard is the most comfortable but also the most expensive. Additionally, hockey mouthguards are available in junior and senior sizes. In general, children up to 12 years old wear a junior mouthguard, after which they switch to a senior mouthguard.

If you wear braces, some hockey mouthguards are specifically designed to be worn with braces, ensuring comfort without causing any problems.

How do I clean my hockey mouthguard?

Your mouth contains many bacteria, and by wearing a hockey mouthguard, those bacteria can transfer onto the mouthguard. Therefore, always clean your hockey mouthguard thoroughly after use! This will help keep it hygienic for longer, and you won’t need to buy a new one as quickly. Clean your mouthguard before and after use with cold water, a small amount of soap, and a toothbrush. Then rinse it well and store it in its case.