Hockey Mouthguards

Hockey is a fast-paced, physical sport where collisions, sticks, and pucks create a perfect storm of risks—making mouthguards an essential piece of equipment for players at every level. Beyond just protecting teeth, mouthguards safeguard a player’s overall health, confidence, and ability to stay in the game. Here’s why they’re non-negotiable on the ice.

First, mouthguards are critical for dental protection. Hockey’s high-impact nature—pucks flying at over 100 mph, sticks swinging, and body checks—puts teeth in constant jeopardy. A single hit can crack, chip, or knock out teeth, leading to painful injuries and costly repairs. The American Dental Association notes that sports like hockey account for a significant chunk of dental trauma, with repairs often running thousands of dollars per incident. Mouthguards act as a shock-absorbing barrier, cushioning blows and distributing force to prevent fractures or loss. For youth players especially, whose teeth are still developing, this protection is vital to avoid lifelong dental issues.

Beyond teeth, mouthguards reduce the risk of jaw and facial injuries. A hard check or errant stick can fracture a jawbone or damage soft tissues like lips and cheeks. Custom-fitted mouthguards—molded to a player’s bite—stabilize the jaw, absorbing impact and lowering the chance of breaks or dislocations. Studies, like those from the Journal of Athletic Training, show mouthguards can decrease the severity of oral trauma by up to 60%. They also help shield against cuts inside the mouth, reducing bleeding and infection risks during play.

Concussion prevention is another key reason mouthguards are essential. While not a cure-all, they provide a buffer that can lessen the force transmitted to the skull. When a player takes a hit to the jaw or face, the impact can ripple to the brain, potentially causing a concussion. Research, including a 2014 study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that mouthguards may reduce concussion risk by stabilizing the head and neck during collisions. In a sport where concussions are a growing concern—hockey ranks high among contact sports for brain injuries—this added layer of protection is invaluable, especially for younger athletes.

Comfort and confidence also play a role. Modern mouthguards, particularly custom or boil-and-bite models, fit snugly, allowing players to breathe, speak, and hydrate without distraction. This comfort translates to focus—players aren’t worrying about loose gear or unprotected mouths. Knowing they’re shielded from injury boosts confidence, letting them play aggressively without hesitation. For enforcers or forwards crashing the net, this mental edge is as crucial as the physical safeguard.

Finally, mouthguards are often mandatory. Leagues like the NHL, NCAA, and youth organizations require them, recognizing their proven benefits. Skipping one isn’t just risky—it’s a penalty waiting to happen. From saving teeth to softening blows and supporting brain health, mouthguards are a small investment with massive returns. For hockey players, they’re not optional gear—they’re a lifeline on the ice.