Choose the Right BJJ Mouthguard and Save Your Teeth: A Buyer’s Guide (2024)
Wondering if you need a mouthguard for BJJ? As a seasoned martial artist who’s narrowly escaped a few dental disasters, I can attest that finding the right mouthguard for BJJ is an invaluable asset.
This guide will explain why you need a mouthguard in BJJ, and then we will help you pick the right BJJ mouthguard for you.
Ready to dive in? Let’s roll!
New to BJJ? Check out our Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Mouthguard for BJJ
While you might notice that not every BJJ practitioner wears a mouthguard, especially during drilling or light rolling, the importance of this protective gear cannot be overstated. Here’s why:
1. Experience Doesn’t Guarantee Safety: Although advanced belts may roll with more control, an errant elbow or unexpected collision can happen at any skill level. Don’t let your guard down just because you’re drilling or rolling with a higher belt.
2. White Belt Vulnerability: Beginners are particularly susceptible to accidental impacts due to less refined technique and control. If you’re new to BJJ, a mouthguard is your best friend.
3. Unpredictability of Training: Accidents can occur even during seemingly controlled drilling sessions. A mouthguard provides constant protection against these unexpected moments.
4. Competition Necessity: Wearing a mouthguard is often mandatory if you plan to compete. Getting used to training with one will ensure you’re comfortable when it counts.
5. Full-Time Protection: Ideally, you want a mouthguard that’s comfortable enough to wear throughout your entire time on the mat. This eliminates the need to remove and reinsert it between drills and rolls constantly.
6. Investment in Your Smile: Dental work is expensive and painful. A quality mouthguard is a small price to pay for preserving your teeth and overall oral health.
7. Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re protected allows you to train with confidence, focusing on technique rather than worrying about potential dental injuries.
8. Concussion Reducer: Believe it or not, a good mouthguard can help absorb some of the impacts that might otherwise rattle your brain. While the data on a mouthguard’s ability to prevent concussions is inconclusive, there seems to be some evidence that they may help.
9. Prevents grinding down of your teeth. When defending against chokes, we often find ourselves tucking our chin and biting down as part of the defensive posture. This creates tremendous pressure on your teeth and over time will grind them down.
Remember, while not everyone always wears a mouthguard, the potential consequences of not wearing one far outweigh any minor inconvenience. Whether you’re a white belt or a black belt, competing or just training, a mouthguard is an essential piece of BJJ gear that can save you from a world of hurt – both physically and financially.
Key Considerations for Choosing Your BJJ Mouthguard
The Importance of Proper Fit
A properly fitted mouthguard is crucial for maximum protection during BJJ training and competition. Ill-fitting guards can shift during rolls, leaving your teeth and gums vulnerable to impacts. Custom-fit mouthguards, while pricier, offer superior protection by conforming precisely to your dental structure. They reduce the risk of the guard falling out during intense grappling sessions and provide better overall comfort. Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a middle ground between custom and stock options.
Don’t underestimate the importance of replacing your mouthguard regularly. Over time, wear and tear can compromise its protective qualities. If you notice any signs of damage, thinning, or a loosening fit, it’s time for a replacement. A properly fitted and maintained mouthguard not only protects your teeth but also gives you the confidence to train and compete without holding back. Remember, a well-fitted mouthguard should feel snug but comfortable, allowing you to breathe and speak with minimal interference.
Impact of Mouthguard Thickness on Protection and Comfort
Mouthguard thickness plays a crucial role in balancing protection and comfort for BJJ practitioners. Thicker guards offer more cushioning against impacts, potentially reducing the risk of dental injuries and concussions. However, they can also feel bulky and interfere with breathing and communication during rolls. Thinner guards provide less protection but offer improved comfort and breathability. Many BJJ-specific mouthguards strike a balance with variable thickness, offering more protection in high-impact areas while remaining thinner in others.
It’s worth noting that advancements in materials and design have led to mouthguards that offer significant protection without excessive bulk. Some modern guards use multi-layer constructions or reinforced areas to maximize protection while maintaining a low profile. Experiment with different thicknesses to find the sweet spot that gives you confidence in your protection without hindering your performance on the mats. Consider your personal preferences and rolling style when choosing – aggressive players might opt for thicker guards, while those prioritizing comfort might lean towards thinner options.
Addressing Common Concerns: Gagging and Speech Impediment
Many BJJ practitioners hesitate to use mouthguards due to concerns about gagging or speech impediment. These issues often stem from poorly fitted or overly large guards. Custom-fit or properly molded boil-and-bite guards can significantly reduce these problems by conforming more closely to your mouth’s unique shape. For those prone to gagging, look for mouthguards designed with a shorter rear portion that doesn’t extend too far back in the mouth. Some brands offer “cut-out” designs that provide ample protection while minimizing the material that could trigger your gag reflex.
Clear communication is vital in BJJ, both for safety and technique discussion. Many high-quality mouthguards are designed to allow for better speech clarity without compromising protection. Some even feature special channels or perforations to improve airflow and speech. With the right guard and a bit of practice, you’ll find that you can communicate effectively while keeping your teeth safe during rolls. If you’ve had bad experiences in the past, don’t give up – finding the right guard can make a world of difference. Practice wearing your guard during solo drills or while watching BJJ videos to get accustomed to talking with it in place.
Choosing Regulation-Compliant Mouthguards for Competition
For competition-focused BJJ athletes, selecting a regulation-compliant mouthguard is crucial to avoid disqualification. Most BJJ tournaments follow IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) rules, which require mouthguards to be made of rubber or soft plastic and cover only the upper teeth. Avoid guards that cover both upper and lower teeth, as these are typically not allowed. Look for mouthguards specifically labeled as IBJJF-compliant or those designed for combat sports. Colors are generally unrestricted, but some tournaments may have specific rules, so it’s wise to choose a neutral color like clear or white. Always check the specific regulations of each tournament you enter, as rules can vary between organizations.
Top 5 Best BJJ Mouthguards of 2024
Venum Challenger Mouthguard – Best for Value for Money. Our Top Pick
Pros:
- Good protection at an affordable price
- Decent breathability
- Comes with a cool carrying case
Cons:
- Not as durable as some pricier options
- Fit may not be as precise as custom guards
Price: $15-$20
The Venum Challenger is perfect for BJJ newbies or those on a budget. It’s like the Honda Civic of mouthguards – reliable, gets the job done, and won’t break the bank. I ahve found that the Venum is the right BJJ mouthguard for me – it’s comfortable, looks great, allows me to ask questions during class, and is easy to take care of.
SISU Aero Guard – Best for Comfort and Breathability
Pros:
- Ultra-thin design (only 1.6mm thick!)
- Allows for easy talking and drinking
- Custom-fit with remoldable material
Cons:
- May not provide as much cushioning as thicker guards
- Can be tricky to mold correctly on the first try
Price: $20- $25
The SISU Aero Guard is a dream for chatty rollers like me. It’s so thin, you’ll forget it’s there – until it saves your teeth from a stray elbow!
Shock Doctor Gel Max – Best for Overall Protection
Pros:
- Excellent shock absorption with gel-fit liner
- Comfortable fit with a moldable outer layer
Cons:
- Bulkier than some other options
- May take some getting used to for breathing and if you are sensitive to gagging
Price: $15 – $20
Amazon customers like the durability of this mouthguard, although some customers have reported that the size is too bulky. Opinions are mixed on comfort, value for money, moldability, and taste. However, if protection is your top priority, the Shock Doctor Gel Max has got you covered. It’s like wrapping your teeth in a cushy, impact-absorbing blanket.
Impact Custom Professional Mouthguard
Best for CUSTOM FIT:
- Expereinced grapplers seeking to upgrade their gear
- Competition-focused athletes needing a high quality regulation compliant mouthguard
- BJJ practitioners with specific dental concerns or sensitivities
For those who demand the most custom fit possible.
HOW THE CUSTOM FITTING PROCESS WORKS:
- The company ships you its Super Simple Fit Kit. the next business day.
- With the kit, you’ll make an impression of your teeth right at home. It only takes about 2 1/2 minutes to complete.
- You send your impression back to Impact using the postage-paid label provided.
- Upon receipt of your impression, the company will create your guard and return the finished product.
Pros:
- Perfect, personalized fit
- High-level protection
- Offers wide variety of designs and colors for those grapplers looking to rep their team logo, or just plain stand out.
Cons:
- More expensive than off-the-shelf options
- Requires impression kit and waiting for production
Price: $50-$120
The Impact Custom Professional is the crème de la crème. It’s like having a tailored suit for your teeth – fancy and fits like a glove! Perfect for MMA and Muy Thai striking arts, but maybe a bit overkill for the typical BJJ hobbyist.
Under Armour ArmourFit Mouthguard – Best for Low Price
Pros:
- Easy boil-and-bite fitting process
- Good balance of protection and comfort
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Not as precisely fitted as custom options
- Not recommended for use with braces
- May need replacing more often with heavy use
Price: $13-$20
The Under Armour ArmourFit is perfect for those who want a no-fuss, easy-to-fit mouthguard. However, at least one customer on Amazon felt the guard was too bulky for BJJ.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a BJJ Mouthguard
1. Fit and Comfort: You’ll wear this A LOT, so make sure it feels good!
2. Breathing and Speaking: Can you trash-talk your opponent while wearing it? Important stuff!
3. Protection Level: Because, you know, teeth are kind of important.
4. Durability: Will it last through your intense training sessions?
5. Price: Protect your teeth and your wallet!
How to Properly Care for Your BJJ Mouthguard
Listen up, because this is important! A clean mouthguard is a happy mouthguard (and a happy mouth):
1. Rinse it after each use. Yes, EACH use!
2. When you brush your teeth, just finish up by gently brushing your mouthguard with the leftover toothpaste on your brush.
3. Let it air dry completely before storing it.
4. Keep it in a ventilated case – no dark, damp environments!
5. Replace it every six months or sooner if it shows wear and tear.
Trust me, you do NOT want to know what happens when you neglect your mouthguard. Let’s just say it involves some funky smells. And unhappy training partners.
Top 5 FAQs About BJJ Mouthguards
1. Can I use my boxing mouthguard for BJJ?
This is going to determine what kind of mouthguard you have. Ideally, you want a mouthguard that offers protection and good breathability, along with speech clarity.
2. How often should I replace my BJJ mouthguard?
Typically, every six months, but heavy use might require more frequent replacement. If it’s starting to look like it’s been through a meat grinder, it’s time for a new one!
3. Does the color of the mouthguard matter?
The color (and imprinted design) you choose for your mouthguard is a highly personal choice. Keep in mind that a red or black mouthguard with pictures of sharp teeth on it is going to portray a more aggressive image of you. This may be great for competitions, but perhaps not the image you want to portray in class. I started with a cheaper shock doctor that was black, and the one day I looked at the mirror and thought my black teeth looked awful. So I went with a white Venum Challenger when I needed an upgrade to the black, less comfortable Shock doctor. I’m very happy with the new look!
4. Will a mouthguard affect my breathing during training?
A properly fitted mouthguard shouldn’t significantly impact your breathing. You might need a different model if you’re gasping like a fish out of water.
5. Is a custom-fitted mouthguard worth the extra cost?
If you’re serious about BJJ and compete regularly, it might be. I’d start with one of the models we discussed, like the Venum, which is reasonably priced and offers very good personal fitting. If that is still uncomfortable, then you might need to go to the more expensive customer-fit product.
Conclusion
Alright, fellow grapplers, we’ve done a full mount on the topic of BJJ mouthguards! Remember, the best mouthguard is the one that fits well, offers solid protection, and doesn’t make you feel like you’re chomping on a tire.
Whether you choose the Venum Challenger for its all-around comfort, the Shock Doctor Gel Max for its premium protection, or a custom-fitted guard, the important thing is that you’re protecting those pearly whites.
Get out there, protect your teeth, and roll confidently.