A mouthguard is mandatory for sparring and strongly recommended for bag work with a partner in any session where accidental contact is possible. Understanding what makes a mouthguard work — and what the different types offer — helps you buy the right protection for your training.
What a Mouthguard Does
The mouthguard's primary functions are: (1) cushioning impact across the upper teeth, (2) preventing the upper and lower teeth from slamming together under jaw impact, and (3) protecting soft tissue (cheeks, tongue, lips) from being cut by teeth during impact. A secondary benefit is mild jaw joint cushioning — though this is less significant than direct dental protection.
Types of Boxing Mouthguards
Stock (Pre-formed) Mouthguards
Bought ready-formed at a fixed size. Least expensive ($5–$20). Poorest fit — they don't conform to individual dental anatomy, creating discomfort and requiring constant biting to stay in place. Not recommended for boxing training.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
The standard for recreational boxing training. A thermoplastic shell is heated in boiling water until pliable, then bitten into — the material conforms to your dental impression as it cools. Result: a custom-fit guard at an affordable price ($15–$50). Most commonly used in Australian gyms.
Custom-Made (Dental Lab) Mouthguards
Made by a dentist from an impression of your teeth. The best protection and comfort, by a significant margin — the fit is precise, meaning no jaw clenching is needed to hold it in place, and the thickness distribution can be customised to your bite. Cost: $150–$400 through a dental practice. Recommended for competitive boxers or anyone who sparring trains regularly.
Single vs Double Mouthguard
Single mouthguards protect only the upper teeth. Double (dual-arch) mouthguards protect both upper and lower teeth simultaneously and also provide more jaw cushioning. Double guards are bulkier and slightly harder to breathe around. For most boxing training, a single upper guard is sufficient — the lower teeth are less directly exposed to impact. Double guards are used in some contact sports with higher jaw impact risk.
Fitting a Boil-and-Bite Guard
- Boil water and use tongs to submerge the guard for 30–45 seconds (follow specific product instructions — overheating destroys the material)
- Remove and cool in cool water for 1–2 seconds — not longer, or it won't conform
- Place in mouth and bite firmly with even pressure for 30–60 seconds while moulding with tongue and fingers
- Cool completely in cold water before removing
- Check fit — should stay in place when you open your mouth without biting
When to Replace a Mouthguard
Every 6–12 months with regular use, or immediately if cracked, significantly deformed, or if your dental anatomy changes (orthodontic treatment, teeth grinding damage).
Mouthguard Hygiene
Rinse in cold water (not hot) after every use. Store in a vented case. Deep clean weekly — soak in diluted mouthwash for 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly. Replace the case every 6 months.