With the sports season right around the corner, it is time to throw out last year’s Mouthguard and hit the market for a new one.

When it comes to Mouthguards you really only have two options;

1. Boil & Bite Mouthguards
2. Custom Fitted Mouthguards

Check out the below breakdown on what sets them apart.

Boil & Bite Mouthguards:

Found at your local sporting goods store the old faithful Boil & Bite Mouthguard is a quick and easy way for you to protect your mouth this sports season.

Often the more cost-effective method when compared to Custom Fitted Mouthguards the Boil & Bite is a great alternative if you are playing social sport or sport that isn’t high impact like Basketball, Netball and Soccer.

Here are the pros and cons of the Boil & Bite Mouthguard:

Pros:

• Quick & easy to fit
• Protects your teeth from impact
• Cost-effective

Cons:

• Potentially loose fitting
• Less protection (When compared to Custom Fitted Mouthguards)
• Affects communication on the pitch
• Can affect breathing

Custom Fitted Mouthguards:

When it comes to Custom Fitted Mouthguards, they are exactly that, custom. They fit your mouth perfectly and will not move or rub. They are perfect for high impact sports such as Rugby Union, Rugby League, Field Hockey and Boxing.

To get a Custom Fitted Mouthguard is simple, make an appointment with the Dentist, they will take a mould of your teeth and within a few weeks you will get called to come and collect your brand-new Mouthguard. Not to mention at some practices you can choose the colour and even images to go on your Mouthguard.

Here are the pros and cons of the Custom Fitted Mouthguard:

Pros:

• Extra protection
• Doesn’t impact breathing
• Only minor impact on speech

Cons:

• Takes time for the Mouthguard to be created
• Cost

Conclusion:

Essentially it comes down to what sport you are playing and what level are you playing at when deciding what Mouthguard option to choose.

If you are playing social basketball, then a Boil and Bite might not even be necessary for you, however, if you are playing at a competitive level and in a position that is vulnerable to elbows than it might be worth the investment.

Same goes with the Custom Fitted Mouthguards. It is highly recommended for all high contact sports you invest in a custom Mouthguard for the extra protection and comfort it has over the Boil & Bite.

Hopefully, the above has helped you decide what Mouthguard option is best for you this season!