Sports mouthguards: pros, cons, NHS and costs

A clear plastic sports mouthguard lying on a grey carpet — A simple sports mouthguard Photo: Marchall, CC BY-SA 3.0

About sports mouthguards

A mouthguard is a rubber-like cover worn over the teeth and gums that cushions the mouth and helps protect the teeth and jaw from injury. The Oral Health Foundation recommends one for contact sports and any sport with a risk of being hit in the mouth - such as rugby, hockey, cricket, football, boxing and martial arts - and for activities involving falls or fast-moving objects, such as skateboarding or mountain biking.

Sport is a significant cause of dental injuries. The Oral Health Foundation reports that between 13% and 39% of dental injuries in the UK are linked to sport, and that athletes are far more likely to damage their teeth without a mouthguard.

Custom-made mouthguards from a dentist fit best. The Oral Health Foundation does not recommend shop-bought or home-moulded guards, as they often fit poorly, can be uncomfortable, may fall out during play, give less protection and can be a choking risk.

How it works

Your dentist takes an impression of your teeth
A dental laboratory makes a guard that fits your mouth exactly
You usually receive it within about a week
Take it to check-ups so the fit can be checked

Time, lifespan and cost

Time needed: Usually one appointment for impressions; the Oral Health Foundation says the guard typically arrives within about a week.
How long it lasts: Children and teenagers may need new guards more often as their teeth and jaws change; adults can keep one longer but may need to replace it every few years.
On the NHS?: Usually private only. Sports guards are specifically excluded from NHS Band 3 custom-made appliances in England, so they are a private item. NHS charges

Private cost

Private fees vary widely between practices and depend on the complexity of your case and the materials used, so we do not quote a typical price. Always ask for a written treatment plan with costs before you agree to treatment. (Source: NHS: How much NHS dental treatment costs)

Pros and cons

Pros

Reduces the risk of broken, chipped and knocked-out teeth
Helps protect lips, tongue, cheeks and jaw

Cons

Custom guards are a private item, not available on the NHS
Children need replacements as their mouths grow
Must be cleaned and stored properly

Aftercare

Clean it after every use and let it dry
Soak it in a denture, retainer or brace cleaning solution as advised
Store it in a hard plastic case, away from heat
Never share a mouthguard
Brush and clean between your teeth before and after wearing it

Risks and side effects

Poorly fitting guards can cause jaw pain, headaches and soreness
Bacteria build up if the guard is not cleaned

Your dentist should explain the risks that apply to you before you agree to treatment.

Problems it can help with

Overbite and sticking-out front teeth

Top teeth that stick out or overlap the bottom ones too deeply. What counts as normal, why it matters, and how braces can help.

RoutineOptions

Common questions

Are boil-and-bite guards good enough?

The Oral Health Foundation does not recommend shop-bought or home kits, as they often fit poorly and give less protection. Bristol Dental School also advises against boil-in-the-bag guards.

Do children need a mouthguard?

Yes, for contact sports. The Oral Health Foundation says sport accounts for around 25% of children injuring or losing front teeth, and children may need new guards more often as they grow.

What if a tooth is knocked out during sport?

Act fast: hold the tooth by the crown, put it back in the socket if you can or keep it in milk or saliva, and get to a dentist immediately.

Useful at home

Products that can help with day-to-day care alongside this treatment. Ask your dental team what suits you. Some links may be affiliate links.

OPRO

OPRO Gold mouthguard for braces

A self-fit sports mouthguard shaped to sit over fixed braces. Braces can change fit over time, so check with your orthodontist –…

Features & who it suits