Do You Need a Mouthguard for BJJ?
No you don’t need a mouthguard for BJJ.
While wearing a mouthguard isn’t mandatory, it is recommended especially if you are concerned with protecting your teeth and mouth in Brazilian jiu jitsu training. However some may find them uncomfortable to wear if they are not used to them.
Types of Mouthguards
Single or Double Side Mouthguard
Single and double mouthguards are both very useful for BJJ. However, for BJJ which is a non striking martial art a single side mouthguard is enough.
The double side mouthguard is much thicker and highly recommended for combat sports that involve striking like: MMA, Muay Thai, Boxing, etc.
Stock Mouthguard
Stock mouthguards are those readily available in store. You will most likely be able to get one on your trip to the supermarket or your local sporting goods store. They are most likely the cheapest type of mouthguard to date. (Prices may still vary depending on the brand.)
The thing though, that you have to consider about using this one is, it lacks hold. This means that you will have to constantly clench your teeth together to prevent it from falling. But if you are rushing to training and have no choice, purchasing this one is better than nothing.
Boil and Bite Mouthguard
Another common type of mouthguard is the boil and bite type. Sounds interesting right? The boil and bite mouthguard is an alternative of the custom mouthguard, which you will learn more about later.
These are probably the most common mouthguards available.
Another term for this type of mouthguard is, mouth formed guard. So you buy a mouthguard from the store, dip it in boiling water, then a few seconds in cool water before you place it in your mouth.
From here, allow it to settle by pressing it against your tongue with your fingers. Now, close your mouth and give it sometime to form.
Note that the information that we provided you is the generic way of how to use it. We highly encourage you to read the instructional pamphlet before doing so to avoid mistakes and to be able to save money.
Custom Mouthguard
A custom mouthguard is something that you have to get fitted for. Yes, you have to see your dentist to get one. What they will do on your trip is to take an imprint of your upper jawbone.
The advantage of using a custom mouthguard, although a bit pricey compared to others, is that you get the ideal fit, comfort, and durability.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard
Do know that mouthguards and other gears in jiu jitsu were made to benefit you. Here are the major reasons why you should consider wearing a mouth guard:
- Protection – If you do wear a mouthguard during training, you are protecting your teeth, gums and lips. Moreover, with the mouthguard, if there is a hard impact on the jaw during different positions, it will be able to help out. How? Well, there will be a slight resistance because of it.
- Breathing – Once you wear your mouthguard, you will notice that your breathing will be more focused. You will become a nose breather in this case. Did you know that study shows that nasal breathing is better than mouth breathing. It is because it shows better circulation and blood flow. Thus, resulting in better oxygenation.
- Confidence – Knowing that you are protected, gives you confidence when you roll. Moreover, you do not have to worry that certain positions or attacks can hurt your teeth or cut your lips.
Why Do Some People Not Wear Mouthguards?
Not everyone who does jiu jitsu wears mouthguards. That is totally fine! Each and everyone has their own preference, and they are no required for bjj training.
Here are some reason’s why someone may choose not to wear one:
- Uncomfortable: If it is your first time using a mouthguard, then it will be quite uncomfortable. Over time you will get used to it, but some find it uncomfortable to wear and train with.
- Effects breathing: Some people may find the mouthguard to effect their breathing especially during intense training or sparring.
- Not required – Lastly, due to their being no striking in bjj, a mouthguard is just not a requirement.
How to Care for you mouthguard
Just like any of your gears in BJJ, you must care for your mouthguard as well. Moreover, this is a very personal item that must be kept clean and maintained to prevent possible bacterial growth. Allow us to give you some tips on how to care for your mouth guard:
- Keep it in a hard shell case. This usually comes when you purchase your mouth guard. Always make sure that you keep it there for storage.
- Rinse after using. Do not bring it home without being washed.
- Use a toothbrush or toothpaste when cleaning. (You can just rinse it at the gym, and do this step at home if you are in a rush)
- Pat dry with a towel or allow it to air dry. Never use a blow dryer.
- Do not keep it in a closed case if it is wet. Why? You do not want mold forming.
- Do not wash with hot water, ever. The only time you will expose it in hot water is if you will fit your boil and bite mouthguard.
- Store in a cool place.
- Observe tears and lacerations, to know if it is time to change.
Mouthguard for BJJ – Conclusion
If you have not purchased a mouth guard and are concerned about getting knocked in your mouth during training then we strongly recommend buying one.
I, personally, use a single sided boil and bite mouthguard that has never gotten in the way of training.
Not only will it protect you, you will be more confident in playing your game and your circulation will improve. Thus, making you last longer on the mats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a mouthguard for bjj?
No, you do not need a mouthguard for BJJ. But I highly suggest that you start wearing one. Know that the only one who can protect you on the mats is yourself. Having the correct and proper gear during your sessions can help prevent accidents.
Despite the low chance of having blows to the mouth due during the game, it is still possible. If you break a tooth, it can be quite taxing to get it fixed. Aside from being pricey,this can affect your daily life activities for the time being.
Hence, add that mouthguard to cart and allow it to be part of your first line defense.
Can you wear someone else’s mouthguard?
No, you shouldn’t wear someone else’s mouthguard. Not only would it likely not fit your teeth but it is very unhygienic.
How frequently should you buy a new mouthguard
If your mouthguard is damaged, then you definitely should get one as soon as possible. But if your mouthguard has minimal tears but has been used consistently, then we recommend changing your mouthguard every 3-6 months.
Just think of it like a toothbrush, it should be replaced somewhat frequently. This prevents bacterial formation and possible negative impact during usage.
Can you wear a mouthguard with braces?
Definitely a yes! We highly recommend mouth guard especially if you have braces. Moreover, the American Association of Orthodontists recommend that anyone with braces wear a mouthguard during sports. Hence, BJJ, a combative martial art, is included in the recommendation.
Furthermore, by wearing one will prevent lacerations and abrasions. This can be caused by metal friction to your lips or inside cheek due to certain movements or positions. Moreover, by wearing a mouthguard, there will be a lower chance of having a fractured or lost tooth.
Should I buy a custom mouthguard?
Although a custom mouthguard is not a requirement, you can buy one. Hence, if you have the means then yes feel free to go for the custom made mouthguard.
While custom made mouthguards tend to fit better you will likely have similar protection when wearing just a boil and bite mouthguard.
So getting a custom mouthguard is by no means a requirement but something extra that you can splurge on if you would like.
Should I wear a single side or double sided mouthguard?
We previously talked about the difference between a single and double mouthguard. The main difference between the two is its thickness.
Even though I recommended that a single side mouthguard is enough, your preference still matters.
Each and everyone has their own preference. If you feel more comfortable and confident using a double sided mouthguard and by all means, do so.
What is highly important is that you are comfortable and able to protect yourself from possible accidents and trauma while doing the sport.
How do you breathe when wearing a mouthguard
Breathing and training with a mouthguard will be a different experience. To be honest, it can take some time to get used to having it on during training sessions.
Breathing and training with a mouth guard can take some time to adjust. You can expect ~1 month of training with it consistently before you forget it is there.
The more you use your mouthguard, the more you will feel like it is part of you. You will be able to do nasal breathing naturally and are able to breath and train properly.
Do UFC fighters wear mouthguards?
You have probably seen a UFC fight on record or live already. Know that it is a requirement for the combatants to wear a mouthguard during the fight.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship is currently the biggest organization hosting mixed martial art fights in the world today. They make sure that each and every participant is still in a safe environment and that they comply with the rules and standards.
For the UFC, despite having grappling involved, there will be a lot of striking. Hence, having a blow in the mouth, teeth and jaw area via punches or kicks is inevitable. That is why all players participating must wear a mouthguard as a form of protection.
Do mouthguards help in boxing?
Yes, definitely. As you know, boxing is a sport focused on attacking the upper body and head. Hence, there will be a number of hits to the facial area. This then can result in a tooth falling off, fractures and or lacerations. Therefore, a mouthguard is extremely necessary.
Well, one of the most notable fight in boxing history was that of Jack Sharkey and Mike Mc Tigue in the year 1927. It was Mc Tigue who was winning the fight, but due to certain circumstances, the fight had to be stopped. Why? It is because Mc Tigue suffered a chipped tooth that burst an artery.
Do muay thai fighters wear mouth guards?
Thus, wearing mouthguards help protect the athletes from an impact that could most likely cause dental trauma, oral soft tissue injuries, bone fractures or dislocation and lacerations to the lips.
Thanks for reading all and see you in the next one!
Chris a white belt BJJ practitioner under Tom de Blase and competitor who has done several Asian Jiu Jitsu Submission No Gi competitions. My current favorite jiu jitsu submission is straight foot lock from ashi garami and honey hole.
