From AQR Orthodontics, Jumeirah, Dubai
Quick Answer
Dental injuries are a real and meaningful risk in many sports, particularly contact sports, and custom-fit mouthguards offer the best combination of protection, comfort, and fit compared to store-bought options. If you play sports in Dubai—from school leagues to competitive martial arts—a properly fitted mouthguard is a simple, worthwhile safeguard.
Why Every Athlete Needs a Mouthguard
- Chipped or lost teeth — common in contact sports, often costly and painful to treat
- Jaw fractures — a well-fitted guard helps absorb severe impacts
- Soft tissue injuries — properly designed guards help protect cheeks and lips from cuts
- Long-term costs — a single dental trauma can lead to lasting problems or expensive repairs
Which Type of Mouthguard Is Best?
- Stock (ready-made) — inexpensive, but generally ill-fitting, bulky, and less protective
- Boil-and-bite — better customization than stock, but still limited fit and comfort compared to custom options
- Custom-fit (recommended) — made from impressions or digital scans for a precise fit, offering the best performance, comfort, speech, and breathing
What Materials Are Sports Mouthguards Made From?
- EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) — lightweight, moderately cushioning, common for moderate-impact sports
- Thermoplastic polymers (TPU, acrylic resins) — more wear- and impact-resistant, often used in multi-layer guards for high-impact sports
- Silicone — prioritizes comfort, though offers less force absorption than firmer materials
High-impact sports (football, hockey, rugby, martial arts) typically call for multi-layer custom guards with a soft outer layer and a harder inner core for maximum shock absorption. Moderate-impact sports (basketball, soccer, baseball) are often well served by EVA-only or dual-layer guards.
Which Sports Need Custom Mouthguards?
- High-impact sports (rugby, boxing, martial arts)—dual-layer protection is generally recommended
- Contact sports (soccer, water polo)—custom guards help protect against collisions and ball strikes
- Braces wearers—special designs protect both teeth and orthodontic appliances
Caring for Your Mouthguard
- Clean daily — rinse under cold water and brush gently with non-abrasive toothpaste
- Store safely — dry thoroughly and keep in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria build-up
- Inspect regularly — replace each season or at the first signs of wear, since a poorly fitting guard loses effectiveness
Why Choose AQR Orthodontics for Custom Sports Mouthguards
- Advanced sports dentistry expertise from Dr. AQR
- 3D scans and precise lab work for a perfect fit
- Team and school bulk packages available, including club/team-branded options
- Ongoing check-ups for fit and hygiene across seasons
Final Thoughts
Protecting your smile is a simple, worthwhile step for any athlete. Book your custom sports mouthguard fitting at AQR Orthodontics, Jumeirah, Dubai—or arrange a team or school package.
About the Author
Dr. AQR is a specialist orthodontist and founder of AQR Orthodontics, Jumeirah, Dubai.
FAQ’s
Can a mouthguard reduce the risk of concussion?
Custom guards are well-established for reducing dental injury risk; evidence on concussion prevention specifically is more limited and mixed.
How much does a custom mouthguard cost in Dubai?
Pricing typically starts around AED 599, including digital scanning and personalized fitting, with upgrades available for extra protection or team branding.
Do kids need a custom-fitted guard too?
Yes—custom guards can protect growing smiles and be adjusted or refitted as needed as children grow.
Do I need a new mouthguard every season?
Yes—a new guard each season helps ensure a proper fit and good hygiene, especially for active athletes.
