Want to minimize tooth and gum injuries during BJJ? Check out this guide to the best BJJ mouthguards to find the ideal protectors.
BJJ is full of mouth-to-mouth action, so it’s no wonder that people are injured with their teeth chomped into by fellow athletes. The best mouthguards will help you minimize tooth and gum injuries during this intense sport while still allowing you to focus on your training.
The idea of protecting your teeth and gums during BJJ sessions is not new. Many martial artists, regardless of weight class, swear by mouthguards to keep their teeth and gums safe from injury. But how do you choose the best type of protector for your BJJ sessions?
Sure, there are some general rules that you can follow, but it’s also important to understand how each type of guard protects your teeth and gums. We’ve done some serious research on BJJ mouthguards and compiled this guide to help you find the right mouthguard for your needs!
1. Shock Doctor Gel Max Mouth Guard
With its gel lift technology, this mouth guard easily molds to the shape of your teeth and gums for the highest level of convenience. This feature contributes to the comfort and security the guard provides during wear, so you can focus on your performance.
The mouthguard has built-in breathing channels so you can breathe conveniently without getting distracted.
The heavy-duty materials and triple-layered design of the BJJ mouthguard maximize protection from even the most powerful punches and kicks. Due to its versatility, the BJJ mouthguard can be used in a wide selection of sports, including football, boxing, and wrestling.
- Available in adult and kid sizes
- Gel fit liner technology offers a personalized fit for comfort and security
- Integrated breathing channels for optimal airflow and easy breathing
- Exoskeleton shock frame for added protection
- It comes with a detachable helmet strap
- It can be a bit bulky for some people
- The hard exterior plastic may not suit some users
2. Venum Challenger Mouthguard
With the Venum Challenger Mouthguard, you no longer have to worry about injuries to your teeth, arches, lips, joints, jaw, and gums. The mouth protector is custom fitted to your mouth and provides maximum support and protection.
Similar to the previous product, the Venum Challenger’s advanced gel frames have breathing channels to facilitate easy, non-restrictive breathing.
At the bottom part of the guard, a low rubber frame quickly absorbs shock and dissipates force to the most rigid teeth upon impact, minimizing the force significantly. The mouthguard also has a protective sanitary storage case to help you with hygiene.
- Netfit Gel frame provides a custom and comfortable fit
- The lower rubber frame is shock-absorbent for adequate protection
- Molded breathing channels for non-obstructive breathing
- CE-certified and comes in a sanitary protective case
- Difficult to talk when wearing it
- Some users experience issues with durability
3. OPRO Power-Fit Mouthguard
The OPRO Power-Fit Mouthguard features a double-layered outer shell that effectively deflects powerful impacts and blows. The force is then dispersed across a wide area by the shell, making it less intense and less likely to damage your teeth and gums.
The mouthguard has fins that fit your teeth in all the right places without making it hard to breathe, talk, or focus. Conveniently, the fitting process takes less than 3 minutes.
Because of its excellent flexibility, you can use the mouth guard for various other sports, such as football, rugby, and hockey. However, the mouth guard is not compatible with braces.
- Unique power cage technology applies an even pressure to give the guard a perfect fit
- Three layers of superior shock absorption
- Ultra fit gel for cushioning and comfort
- Not suited for younger athletes
- Incompatible with braces
4. SISU Mouth Guards Aero 1.6mm Custom Fit Sports Mouthguard
The Diffusix technology of the SISU Mouthguard evenly distributes impact during BBJ to shield your teeth and gums from injuries. The mouth guard is only 1.6mm thick, which is 50% thinner than the standard BJJ mouth guards.
This design makes the mouthpiece comfortable to wear, so you can talk, breathe, and even drink without removing it. However, this doesn’t mean that the mouthpiece compromises its capacity for shock absorption. The mouth guard also has a wide bite pad with rounded edges, which adds to its comfort and moldability for a better fit.
- Available in a choice of 10+ vibrant colors
- Bite pad to improve moldability and fit
- More perforations for more comfort, breathability, and protection
- Crumple zone design to absorb impact
- Issues with molding to the shape of the mouth
- The hard exterior can be uncomfortable at times
5. OPRO Snap-Fit Mouthguard
If you are on a strict budget, the OPRO Snap-Fit Mouthguard is what you should get, thanks to its affordability. The BJJ mouthguard features snap-fit technology, making it incredibly simple and convenient to fit.
As soon as you hold it in your mouth, you’re instantly protected and don’t need to bite into it. Its ergonomic shape makes it easy to breathe and talk. The award-winning BJJ mouthguard comes in two distinct sizes to fit adults and children. You can also choose your favorite color from a variety of options.
- Instant protection fit – no need to bite into it
- Dental warranty of up to $5000
- The specially shaped palate allows for easy talking and breathing
- Available in adult and kid sizes
- You still have to boil it for the perfect fit
- The thin plastic bites into the gums
6. Shock Doctor Double Braces Mouth Guard
Add character to your look with the spooky style of the Shock Doctor Double Brace Mouth Guard. But this is not all the BJJ mouthguard does. The mouthguard has double braces to provide sufficient protection to the upper and lower teeth.
To make the process more comfortable, the mouth protector readily conforms to the shape of your upper and lower teeth without having any bumpy surfaces that graze your gums. The mouthpiece features medical-grade silicone that fits comfortably in your mouth. Put it in your mouth, and enjoy unbeatable protection. Additionally, the mouth guard is available in both strapped and strapless designs.
- Ortho-channel design fits around the brace brackets
- Medical grade silicone easily molds to the shape of the upper and lower teeth
- Meets rules for coverage of upper braces during wrestling
- Adapts to the tooth position changes
- It takes some time to adapt to your teeth
- The thick material can make it hard to breathe
FAQs
1. Should I wear a mouthguard in Bjj?
Absolutely. The best BJJ mouthguards protect your teeth and gums from the impact of blows and kicks. Since grappling is a common technique in BJJ that can result in serious injuries, wearing a mouthguard can significantly lower the risks.
2. How long should I boil my mouthguard?
It should take no longer than 60 seconds to boil your mouthguard. However, avoid plunging your mouthguard directly into boiling water. Instead, use a pot to bring the water to a boil. You can then remove it from the heat source and let it sit for at least 30 seconds. Then, put the mouthguard into the water for one minute.
3. How many times can I remold my mouthguard?
Depending on its material and quality, you can remold your mouthguard up to 20 times. To mold it, place it in hot boiled water for a few seconds, let it soften, and straighten it out, and you’re good to go.
4. How do I check if my mouth guard fits?
If you want your mouthpiece to fit correctly, it should not shift from side to side in your mouth. It must offer adequate coverage and feel comfortable in the mouth without causing excessive pressure or pain. With a perfectly fitted mouthguard, you should be able to speak and breathe without a problem.
5. Why do I gag when I wear a mouthguard?
The thickness of a mouthguard is typically what makes you gag. When choosing the best BJJ mouthguard to invest in, make sure that you select the right size. Using one with perforations will make it much easier for you to communicate and breathe.
6. Can I get sick from wearing a mouthguard?
You could quickly become ill if your mouthguard has mold or bacteria, so you should always keep it clean. Make sure the mouthpiece offers adequate breathability to promote ample airflow.