Why mouthguards matter
in Field Hockey

Field hockey is know for being a fast-paced sport. With arms, legs, and sticks always on the go, it’s all too easy for an elbow, knee, or ball to go rogue and impact on an athlete’s face.

It’s for that reason that all field hockey players, regardless of age or level, need to keep themselves protected by using the right mouthguard during play.

Approx.

0%

of field hockey injuries affect a players’ face.

In Australia

0%

of elite athletes sustained at least one orofacial injury during their careers.

Up to

0%

of the risk of a player damaging their front teeth can be reduced if using a mouthguard.

Which Makura mouthguard is best for Field Hockey players?

Unfortunately the answer to this question isn’t always straight forward because, at the end of the day, the right mouthguard is the one that fits you best. That being said, there are some characteristics you should look out for when choosing an field hockey mouthguard.

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Correct Fit

A properly fitted mouthguard keeps wearers both comfortable and safe. It should remain securely in place (no clenching required to hold it) even if you jostle it a bit with your tongue, and it shouldn’t make you gag, prevent you from speaking, or inhibit breathing in any way.

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Certification

All Makura mouthguards are fully CE certified and have achieved Level 2 and Level 3 Impact Resistance. Our BOIL & BITE™ TEPHRA MAX™ is Level 3 Impact Resistant, the highest level achievable for mouth-adapted mouthguards. Our braces compatible LITHOS™ is Level 2 Impact Resistant, the highest attainable for ready-made mouthguards.

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Features

Look for attributes like gel-based and flexible liners as well as shock absorbing outers that are suited to the game you play and how you play it. If you have braces, make sure you choose a braces-compatible mouthguard to keep both you and your braces safe from harm.

A brief history of mouthguards in Field Hockey

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After gaining acceptance among boxers, mouthguards started to become more common place in other contact sports and have significantly improved player safety over the years. In American football for example, over 50% of all injuries prior to the 1950s involved players' teeth. Rates of dental injuries among football players nowadays have plummeted to less than 3%.

Today, whether or not mouthguards for field hockey players depends largely on where you play. In the United States, The National Federation of State High School Associations mandates the use of mouthguards for all field hockey players. Other associations, like England Hockey, recommend them.

Remember, dental and orofacial injuries don't affect star players alone. They can happen to anyone, which is why you must always keep yourself protected by wearing a mouthguard.