Skull X-ray with the jaw joint highlighted in red

Mouthguards for Preventing Jaw Injuries

Jaw injuries in sports can be debilitating. A well-fitted mouthguard is a crucial piece of protective gear to help prevent these injuries.

How Mouthguards Protect Your Jaw

  • Shock Absorption: Mouthguards act as a cushion, absorbing the impact of a blow to the face and reducing the force transferred to the jaw.
  • Jaw Stabilization: A custom-fitted mouthguard helps stabilize the jaw, reducing the risk of dislocation or fracture.
  • Protection of Teeth: By protecting your teeth from damage, mouthguards indirectly protect your jaw from excessive stress.

Importance of Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

While over-the-counter mouthguards offer some protection, custom-fitted mouthguards are superior in preventing jaw injuries.

  • Precision Fit: A custom mouthguard is designed specifically for your mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and protection.
  • Optimal Shock Absorption: The precise fit allows the mouthguard to distribute impact forces evenly, reducing the risk of jaw injuries.
  • Jaw Stabilization: A custom-fitted mouthguard provides superior jaw stabilization, minimizing the chance of dislocation.

Additional Tips for Jaw Protection

  • Choose the right sport-specific mouthguard: Different sports require different levels of protection.
  • Wear your mouthguard consistently: To maximize protection, wear your mouthguard during all practices and games.
  • Properly care for your mouthguard: Clean and store your mouthguard correctly to prolong its lifespan.

By investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard and wearing it consistently, athletes can significantly reduce the risk of jaw injuries and enjoy peace of mind while playing their sport.

 

Different sports call for different levels of protection. Origin is our combat guard for boxing, MMA, Muay Thai and kickboxing, and Origin Pro gives the same 5 mm protection with more breathability and comfort, plus an optional 6 mm upgrade. For football and other team sports, NanoBite is our pick. Compare the models, see our guide to custom boxing mouthguards, and read how to clean and care for your mouthguard.

Keep reading: mouthguards and TMJ, dental protection in combat sports and whether mouthguards prevent concussions.

 

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