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How to Choose the Right Mouthguard for Martial Arts & Combat Sports

A mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of protective gear for anyone training in combat sports or martial arts. Whether you’re boxing, sparring in Muay Thai, rolling in MMA, competing in Taekwondo, or training in traditional martial arts, a well-fitted mouthguard helps protect your teeth, gums and jaw from impact. But with different styles, sizes and prices available, choosing the right mouthguard can feel a little confusing. Here’s what to look out for before you buy your first or next guard. Why Do You Need a Mouthguard? In contact sports, accidental knocks are a very common part of training. A mouthguard helps absorb impact and reduce the risk of dental injuries during sparring, drilling and competition. Even the lightest of contact can result in chipped teeth, cut lips or jaw pain. That’s why 99.9% of gyms, coaches and competitions require athletes to wear a mouthguard whenever contact is involved. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards Boil-and-bite mouthguards are one of the most popular options for beginners and regular users. They are softened in very hot water, placed in the mouth, and then moulded around your teeth for a more secure fit. These are a great choice if you want an affordable and reliable option without spending the earth or needing a custom dental mouthguard. Gel-Fit Mouthguards Gel-fit mouthguards are designed to offer a more comfortable fit and better overall feel in the mouth. The upper gel lining helps the mouthguard shape around your teeth, which can make it easier to wear during training. For fighters who spar regularly, a gel-fit mouthguard is usually a better option than a basic entry-level boil and bite mouthguard as they typically offer improved comfort and suction to the teeth. Best for: Regular sparring Intermediate to experienced athletes Fighters wanting better comfort Boxing, Muay Thai and MMA training Mouthguards for Braces If you wear braces, you’ll need a mouthguard designed specifically for orthodontic use. Standard boil-and-bite mouthguards typically aren't suitable, as they can fit too tightly and awkwardly around brackets and wires. A braces mouthguard is made to provide extra room and protection around orthodontic work while still helping reduce impact during training. Best for: Kids, teens or adults with braces Martial arts students Boxing and contact sport training Athletes needing extra orthodontic protection Adult vs Junior Mouthguards Size really matters when choosing a mouthguard. A mouthguard that is too large can feel bulky, make breathing harder, and move around during training. One that is too small won't provide enough coverage. As a general guide: Junior mouthguards are better suited for kids and younger athletes. Adult mouthguards are better suited for teens and adults. Some brands may also describe sizing such as senior, youth or 12+, so it’s worth checking the product size guide carefully before purchasing. Comfort Is Important The best mouthguard is the one that feels best. If it feels too bulky, loose or uncomfortable, you’re less likely to use it properly. A good mouthguard should: Fit securely Cover your top teeth properly Allow you to breathe comfortably Stay in place during movement Feel comfortable enough for regular use If your mouthguard constantly falls out, makes you gag, or feels painful, it's time for a change! How Often Should You Replace a Mouthguard? Mouthguards don’t last forever. Over time, they can lose shape, become less hygienic, or show signs of wear from biting and impact. You should replace your mouthguard if: It has bite marks or cracks It feels loose It has changed shape It smells even after cleaning You’ve outgrown it You’re training more frequently or sparring harder Kids and teens may need to replace mouthguards more often as their teeth and jaw develop. So... Which Mouthguard Should You Choose? For beginners, a simple boil-and-bite mouthguard is usually a fine starting point. This gets you into the action without breaking the bank, as you get more involved, you can look to upgrade to the next level. For regular sparring, a gel-fit mouthguard offers a better balance of comfort and protection. For braces, choose a braces-specific mouthguard rather than a standard moulded option. For competition or high-contact training, consider a custom mouthguard that offers a secure fit and better shock absorption. Final Thoughts A mouthguard may be a tiny piece of gear, but it plays a huge role in keeping you safe in martial arts or combat sports training. Whether you’re just starting your journey or sparring every week, choosing the right mouthguard can help you train with more confidence. At Shogun Martial Arts, we stock a range of mouthguards for boxing, Muay Thai, MMA, kickboxing and traditional martial arts, including options from brands like Shock Doctor, Fairtex, Daedo, Wacoku and Combat Sports Gear. Shop our full range of mouthguards here.