Jump to content

Mouthguards - What Kind Do You Use?


Recommended Posts

I have a boil-and-bite guard from Shock Doctor:

 

https://www.shockdoctor.com/gel-max-mouthguard

 

There are detailed insteuctions in the package, but you boil water and drop it in briefly, remove and bite/suck to mold to your mouth, then run under cold water to set the shape. I usually do it two or three times to get it just right.

 

They also have a youth size, so perhaps one might fit without being trimmed?

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

EDIT: I just received my custom guard from Gladiator Guards. It cost about $100 all together with shipping and custom logo. It fits so much nicer than the boil-and-bite. If you are in the US and can't afford to purchase from a dental office (mine wanted $450), do check them out.

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

What kind do you use? How do you mold it?

I have a Leone but it's not a good fit for me, I have a small palate and when I put it on it always makes the gums on my back theet bleed. (I have very sensitive gums :( )

 

Any suggestion about smaller/softer brands?

I also use a youth size and it helps with the very back cutting into your mouth. I trim the back with scissors to make it fit as well.

For a couple years I used an Under Armour guard that was great. The one I have now is from a local shop and I don't know the brand. It was the Fairtex shop so I could maybe assume it's their own brand but there's no label on it, which is unlike them - they put their name on everything.

I put the mouthguard in boiled (not boiling; take it off the heat) water for about 40-60 seconds, lift it out with a fork and let it cool for about 10 seconds, then put it in my mouth and bring my bottom jaw forward a tiny bit before biting down. Then I suck all the water out while it's on my teeth and use my fingers to push the front against my top teeth. I grind my jaw back and forth a very little bit to create a good mold, then pop it out and stick it in a bowl of cold water for a couple minutes. Probably 1 minute is fine but I just leave it in there for a while and do other things.

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I use a single-mouthguard from a local Polish brand called Masters, and I mold it exactly like NewThai does. A normal size suits me well, coz I'm big - 175 cm (5'9).

I've seen and heard that smaller girls with smaller jaws cut the back of the mouthgard, just like Sylvie does.

I actually have a second back-up no-name mouthguard, but it's so rigid and I always have irritated gums after using it, the Masters one is really soft and molds perfectly - and it's cheap! 10PLN - so it's like...2,5-3 Euro/Dollar :) + another 10PLN for delivery ;)

I change it every 10-12 months, but I heard you should be changing it every 3-6 months because of the bacteria and stuff...

Every now and then I put it in boiling water or clean it with toothpaste - actually I don't know what good it does, but I feel cleaner this way ;)

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I use the Shock Doctor Ultra STC. It's great because the mould is really lightweight and comfortable, but the mouthguard still feels snug and protective. It's also one of the only mouthguards I can breathe properly out of because it's got these little holes in it.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I got mine custom-made at a dental clinic and I'd never go back to using another mouth guard now. They put this weird putty-like stuff in your mouth to take the mould, then form the plastic around it. I had to wait for three days to get it back, but it's the most comfortable mouth guard I've ever had. It's not big or bulky at all. In fact, referees will often have to double check that I'm wearing it before a fight because they can't see it, since it's also transparent. I usually won't take it out between fight rounds, partly because the tight fit makes it a little difficult for my trainer to get out but mainly because it doesn't interfere with my ability to breathe, drink or talk, so it's fine. It cost me 3,000 baht to get it made. I don't know how much it would be outside of Thailand!  

  • Like 5
Link to comment
Share on other sites

The fact that Micc pointed out that you should change it every 3-6 months AND the fact that last session it fell from my fingers into a puddle of sweat on the tatami PLUS my ipochondria made me decide to buy a new one and try to trim it before molding it. (Still a Leone, it's the only one they have in the shop close to me.)

I'll let you know if it gets better.

 

How do you clean it between sessions? I usually wash it with a toothbrush and some toothpaste.

 

@Emma: I looked online after your post and it looks like there's a place in Milan where they make custom molded mouthguards for around 150-200€. Still kind of expensive for something you should renew often... Or maybe it's a different material that lasts longer? Or since they already have your mold the next one is cheaper?

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

@Emma: I looked online after your post and it looks like there's a place in Milan where they make custom molded mouthguards for around 150-200€. Still kind of expensive for something you should renew often... Or maybe it's a different material that lasts longer? Or since they already have your mold the next one is cheaper?

 

I've actually been using this one for maybe two years. I haven't though to replace it because it has zero wear and tear and still works/fits as well as it always did. I just make sure I keep it clean and it's good to go. 

  • Like 4
Link to comment
Share on other sites

The fact that Micc pointed out that you should change it every 3-6 months AND the fact that last session it fell from my fingers into a puddle of sweat on the tatami PLUS my ipochondria made me decide to buy a new one and try to trim it before molding it. (Still a Leone, it's the only one they have in the shop close to me.)

I'll let you know if it gets better.

 

How do you clean it between sessions? I usually wash it with a toothbrush and some toothpaste.

 

@Emma: I looked online after your post and it looks like there's a place in Milan where they make custom molded mouthguards for around 150-200€. Still kind of expensive for something you should renew often... Or maybe it's a different material that lasts longer? Or since they already have your mold the next one is cheaper?

I've never heard about this need to change the mouthguard on a time-schedule, rather than just when it's clearly deteriorating. I brush mine with toothpaste and brush, occasionally will drop it in a mixture of Hydrogen Peroxide and water over night if there's blood on it from a fight. But I generally go a few years on each of my pieces. The reason I have a new one now is because I lost the other one (never made it back to me from my cornerman after a fight).

  • Like 4
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I made a new one trimming it before molding it and it makes a world of difference, my god. I could have probably trimmed it even more. 

I'll buy some disinfectant and see how long this lasts. 

Also a training partner told me that now they have gel ones at Decathlon at very low price and they are very comfortable, but I think the shops are only in europe :(

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Just wanted to chime in...I use a JAWZZ custom mouthguard.  It is by far the most impressive mouthguard that I have ever had.  I have to actually pull this thing out of my mouth when I need to remove it.  

The basic, no graphics mouthguard is the same as the more expensive ones, they just have more custom design options. $65 for their basic one and you can pick multi colors. 

Several guys in the gym have them everyone raves about them.  

The process is how Emma describes it above.

The cons are the cost and that you have to send for the package, do your imprints, send them back then wait about 45 days to get it returned.  You end up getting it back after you forget that you ordered the thing in the first place- but then- WOW, EUREKA!

Anyways, just my 2 cents.

  • Like 4
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 3 weeks later...

I've never heard about this need to change the mouthguard on a time-schedule, rather than just when it's clearly deteriorating. I brush mine with toothpaste and brush, occasionally will drop it in a mixture of Hydrogen Peroxide and water over night if there's blood on it from a fight. But I generally go a few years on each of my pieces. The reason I have a new one now is because I lost the other one (never made it back to me from my cornerman after a fight).

Neither I have heard about having to change the mouthguard.

However some brand have an insurance if something happen to your teeth during a fight, so it might be a good idea to change it just in case, for people who don't have health insurance. I think mine was a year insurance, I have it for more than 2 years now... so definitively I should change it.

 

Also, about the cleaning, I've never "toothbrush" it, but I let it soak (when I actually think about it) during the night into a glass of water and apple cider vinegar and rince it. It's usually acidic enough to kill bacterias if there is any (and a big plus : it taste amazing when you wear it haha).

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...

I use a ShockDoctor 1.5 because that brand happens to fit me and is comfortable.

But if you are fighting then ideally you should have one made for you by a dentist. The max fax surgeons at work (the ones who deal with damaged jaws and teeth) say that a custom made one will disperse the forces of a blow evenly. A 'standard' guard won't do that, which means that you can actually end up with more damage as pressure can get concentrated in one area.

As I progress I intend to get one made for me; in the UK it should cost £50-£100 and will last for years until your mouth or teeth change.

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 4 weeks later...

I use a custom-made from a dentist and wouldn't want to use a regular kind as I think even if they are comfortable and allow for easy breathing and talking, it should be a really tight fit. If it is going to to its job right, it should be very difficult to dislodge.

I've had my dentist-made one for several years and it remains good as new, no wear-and-tear at all. For cleaning I soak it in a mix of hydrogen peroxide with water or, previously, with the fizzy tablets made for soaking dentures (more expensive but I think no better than hydrogen peroxide with water). 

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I have one from the dentist. Its cost £35 but I have some veneers from a childhood accident that cost £2000 so a small price to pay.  I got offered the choice of 50 colours but I let the dentist pick as colour is unimportant. They also put my name in it under the silicone  as in larger gyms or inteclubs it makes it easier to identify. Like Emma it fits so well I don;t take it out and have been known to walk out the shower with it in. (sorry I don't have photos)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Victoria,

The two clear mouthpieces are from a dentist.  One for bjj, one for striking (difference in thickness).  The red and white one is the newer JAWZZ (there are other companies that also do this) one that a dentist makes for you but you mold yourself with the kit.  The difference is that the red one you cannot take out using your tongue, you have to get you fingers in your mouth and get that sucker out.  Although it's thicker than the other two, you forget that it's there. The white part is also like a tougher plastic than the red.  It is by far the best mouth piece that I have ever tried and I find myself forgetting to take it out after practice when I'm talking to people.  I know I sound like a rep for this mouthpiece but it is the best piece of equipment that I have ever tried (others at my gym agree).  The con? A week to get the kit and then maybe 1-2 months to get the sucker back.  PITA. Essentially, it will arrive when you finally forget that you actually ordered the thing.  Decent cost for what you get.

 

IMG_3.jpg

IMG_2.jpg

 

IMG_1.jpg

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

My dentist makes amazing custom mouth guards, from custom writing to multi colours. 

I would contact your dentist to find out and the thickness depends on your sport. If you are competitive, there is a specified thickness. If you are not competitive, then you can select the thickness when having yours made at your dentist. Most of them do customs for Footy players as well

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...

I just received a custom guard from Gladiator Guards. It cost about $100 all together with shipping and custom logo. It fits so much nicer than the boil-and-bite. If you are in the US and can't afford to purchase from a dental office (mine wanted $450), do check them out.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Most Recent Topics

  • Latest Comments

    • Translation:  (Continued from the previous edition (page?) … However, before being matched against Phadejsuk in the Royal Boxing program for His Majesty [Rama IX], The two had faced each other once before [in 1979]. At that time, a foreign boxer had already been booked to face Narongnoi, and the fight would happen regardless of who wins the fight between Narongnoi and Phadejsuk. … That foreign boxer was Toshio Fujiwara, a Japanese boxer who became a Muay Thai champion, the first foreign champion. He took the title from Monsawan Lukchiangmai in Tokyo, then he came to Thailand to defend the title against Sripae Kiatsompop and lost in a way that many Thai viewers saw that he shouldn’t have lost(?). Fujiwara therefore tried to prove himself again with any famous Nak Muay available. Mr. Montree Mongkolsawat, a promoter at Rajadamnern Stadium, decided to have Narongnoi Kiatbandit defeat the reckless Fujiwara on February 6, the following month. It was good then that Narongnoi had lost to Phadejsuk as it made him closer in form to the Japanese boxer. If he had beaten Phadejsuk, it would have been a lopsided matchup. The news of the clash between Narongnoi and Toshio Fujiawara, the great Samurai from Japan had been spread heavily through the media without any embellishments. The fight was naturally popular as the hit/punch(?) of that spirited Samurai made the hearts of Thai people itch(?). Is the first foreign Champion as skilled as they say? It was still up to debate as Fujiwara had defeated “The Golden Leg” Pudpadnoi Worawut by points beautifully at Lumpinee Stadium in 1978, and before that, he had already defeated Prayut Sittibunlert and knocked out Sripae Kaitsompop in Japan, so he became a hero that Japanese people admired, receiving compliments from fans one after another(?). Thus the fight became more than just about skills. It was (advertised as?) a battle between nations by the organizing team, consisting of promoter Montree Mongkolsawat, Somchai Sriwattanachai representing the “Daily Times(?),” Mahapet of “Muay Thai” magazine, and Palad of “Boxing” magazine were also present, and they named the show in a very cool(?) way, “The Battle of the Fierce Samurai.” Even “The Smiling Tiger of Ayothaya” Narongnoi who was never afraid or shaken was affected by the advertising, confessing to the media that he felt a little scared, unlike usual when he faced other Thai boxers like himself. “Why are you scared?” “Maybe because the opponent is a foreigner. There’s news that he is very talented.”  “So you’re afraid that if you lose to him in our own home, it will give us a bad name and be very shameful for you.” “Yes! But my heart knows that I can’t lose because I am fighting in my own country. And in any case, he probably won’t/wouldn’t be better than our boxers. “But he has defeated many of our famous boxers such as Pudpadnoi-Prayut-Sripae. To tell the truth, he must be considered a top boxer in our country.” “Yes, I know” Narongnoi admitted, “but Pudpadnoi could not be considered to be in fresh form as he had been declining for many years and could only defeat Wangprai Rotchanasongkram the fight before(?). [Fujiwara] fought Prayut and Sripae in Japan. Once they stepped on stage there, they were already at a huge disadvantage. I trained especially well for this fight, so if I lose to Fujiwara, my name will be gone(?) as well.” “The Battle of the Fierce Samurai” was postponed from February 6 to February 12, but Thai boxing fans were still very excited about this matchup, wanting to see with their own eyes how good the spirited Japanese boxer was, and wanted to see Narongnoi declare the dignity(?) of Thai boxers decisively with a neck kick, or fold the Japanese fighter with a knee. Win in a way that will make Thai people feel satisfied.   [Photo description] Narongnoi Kiatbandit used his strength to attack Fujiwara, a fake Muay Thai fighter until Fujiwara lost on points.   Fujiwara flew to Bangkok 2-3 days before the fight. The organizers of the show had prepared an open workout for him at Rajadamnern Stadium for advertising purposes. Many press reporters and boxing fans crowded together to see Fujiwara. Their annoyance increased as all he did for three rounds was punch the air [shadowboxing], jump rope, and warm up with physical exercises. After finishing the first three rounds, he was asked to put on gloves and do two rounds of sparring with a person who was already dressed and waiting. However, Fujiwara’s doctor told him that it was unnecessary. This time he had come to defeat a Thai boxer, not to perform for the show. Photographers shook their heads and carried their empty cameras back to their printing houses, one after another. In addition to measuring the prestige of the two nations, the fight between Narongnoi and Fujiwara was also wagered on, with a budget of 1 million baht. Narongnoi was at 3-2 in odds, and someone had prepared money to bet on the Japanese underdog, almost a million baht. Only “Hia Lao” Klaew Thanikul, who had just entered the boxing world, would bet 500,000 baht alone, and the Japanese side would only bet a few hundred thousand. The only person who truly bet on Narongnoi’s side was Chu Chiap Te-Chabanjerd or Kwang Joker, the leader of the “Joker” group, supported by Sgt. Chai Phongsupa. The others could not bet because the Japanese side ran out of money to bet on. Narongnoi’s disadvantage would be that it would be the first time that he will fight at 134 lbs. However, he would have youth and strength on his side, as well as having trained Muay Thai in Thailand(?). Narongnoi was only 22 years old, while Fujiwara was already 33. His 33 years did not seem to be a concern in terms of strength as he had trained very well and never knew the word “exhaustion.” Fujiwara had an abundance of endurance, to the extent that the Japanese could trust him completely on this issue. Yes [krap], when the day came, Rajadamnern Stadium was packed with boxing fans of all ages. The entrance fee was set at 100-200 and 400 baht per person, and the total raised was over 900,000 baht, less than ten thousand baht short of reaching the million baht mark. This means that the number of viewers was more than double that of the special events (200-400 baht per person) nowadays. Even though it was more exciting than any other fight in the past, Narongnoi Kiatbandit, the 130 lbs champion, was able to completely extinguish Toshio Fujiwara by throwing his left leg to the ribs every now and then. This made “the Samurai” unable to turn the odds(?) in time because Narongnoi would always stifle him. Fujiwara could only rely on his physical fitness and endurance to stand and receive various strikes until his back and shoulders were red with kick marks. After 5 rounds, he lost by a landslide, with no chance to fight back at all. Most of the audience was pleased, but there were some who complained that Narongnoi should have won by knockout, which was not easy as Fujiwara had already established that he was the best in Tokyo. If it were any other Japanese boxer, it would be certain that he would not have survived. “Am BangOr” wrote in the “Circle of Thoughts" column(?) of the boxing newspaper at that time: “Then the truth came out to show that Toshio Fujiwara was not really that good at Muay Thai. He was beaten by Narongnoi Kiatbandit who only used his left leg. Fujiwara was frozen, bouncing back and forth with the force of his leg, and he lost by a landslide... The only thing worth admiring about this Sun Warrior is his endurance and excellent durability. For someone at the age of 33 like him to be able to stand and take Narongnoi's kicks like that, he must be considered quite strong. Why, then, did other Thai boxers lose to him? Monsawan-Sriprae-Pudpadnoi-Worawut have all helped strengthen this Japanese boxer. The answer is that their readiness was not enough(?). This victory of Narongnoi is considered to be the erasing of the old beliefs that were stuck in the hearts of Thais who were afraid that Japan would become the master of Thai boxing. It will probably be a long time and it will be difficult as long as Thai boxers can maintain our identity. But we cannot be complacent. If we are arrogant and think that the Japanese will not give up, we Thais may be hurt again because they will not give up. If we make a mistake today, he will have to find a way to make up for it tomorrow."
    • Sylvie wrote a really cool article about why sparring escalates, even when people are trying to go light. A gem from 10 years ago. https://8limbsus.com/blog/brain-science-sparring-gets-control-neurology-muay-thai
  • The Latest From Open Topics Forum

    • 3½ years late of a reply haha. I'm in Phuket and have went to quite a few physios. The best so far is Meaw at OptimiseFit at the Blue Tree in north Phuket. She doesn't dry needle me as another Dr. has here but all my muscle tension came back soon so it's a waste of money.
    • Don't know if this brand offers shin guards but might as well check them out. I bought a few pairs of shorts from them a while ago and was genuinely impressed. https://siamkickfight.com/
    • Hi all, I have paid a deposit to a gym in Pai near Chiang Mai to train at in January. I am now concerned about the pollution levels at that time of year because of the burning season. Can you recommend a location that is likely to have safer air quality for training in January? I would like to avoid Bangkok and Phuket, if possible. Thank you!
    • Hi, this might be out of the normal topic, but I thought you all might be interested in a book-- Children of the Neon Bamboo-- that has a really cool Martial Arts instructor character who set up an early Muy Thai gym south of Miami in the 1980s. He's a really cool character who drives the plot, and there historically accurate allusions to 1980s martial arts culture. However, the main thrust is more about nostalgia and friendships.    Can we do links? Childrenoftheneonbamboo.com Children of the Neon Bamboo: B. Glynn Kimmey: 9798988054115: Amazon.com: Movies & TV      
    • Davince Resolve is a great place to start. 
  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      1.3k
    • Total Posts
      11k
×
×
  • Create New...