MMA Q&A
Do I need different mouthguards for striking and grappling?
Usually one properly fitted sports mouthguard can serve for both. It needs to fit your teeth, stay seated while you move and meet any rules for that session or event. Braces or dental work can change the choice.
On this page
Try the guard before the partner round
Seat it as its maker or your dentist directs. You should not need to clamp down constantly to hold it in position. If it falls loose as you open your mouth, makes normal breathing difficult or rubs against dental work, pause and get the fit checked.
During grappling, an accidental knee, forearm or clash of heads can reach your mouth even when strikes are prohibited. The American Dental Association includes martial arts and wrestling among activities where it recommends a properly fitted guard to reduce dental injury risk.
Choose a type that fits
A stock guard comes preformed. A mouth-formed guard follows the specific manufacturer’s fitting directions. A dentist can make a guard from your own teeth and advise on unusual fit or orthodontic appliances. Ask your dentist or orthodontist before moulding a guard over braces.
Care changes how long it lasts
Rinse after use, let it dry and carry it in a ventilated case. Inspect for tears, distortion or a newly loose fit, especially after dental treatment. Replace a damaged or ill-fitting guard. If you keep a spare, fit and check it before you need it.
Before a bout
The gym’s training policy and the competition’s equipment rules can differ. Check the event instructions before buying a second guard solely for its label. Dental protection does not give permission to increase contact.