If you were born in 1984 or later, a certified mouthguard is mandatory for playing organized hockey with a visor. However, even if you're just playing with friends, there’s every reason to protect your mouth and teeth from pucks and stick impacts. Here, we explain why mouthguards are important and offer some good advice when making your purchase.

As long as you’re playing junior hockey, up until the U18 level, full-face protection is required. After this, male players can choose to play with a visor, and if you're born in 1984 or later, you must also wear a mouthguard. However, it can be a good idea for younger players to wear a mouthguard as well, as it further reduces the risk of injury to the mouth and teeth. Such injuries can occur if equipment isn’t used properly or if there is a temporary lack of full-face protection, like during practice or recreational play with friends. It’s also helpful to get used to wearing a mouthguard before you start playing with a visor. This way, you’ll know which mouthguard you prefer and how to use it correctly.

Why Do You Need a Mouthguard When Playing Hockey?
You’ve probably seen pictures of toothless hockey players. Missing teeth and jaw fractures are unfortunately common, and in a contact sport like hockey, the risk of taking a hard hit to the mouth is always present. Typically, these unfortunate hits come from swinging sticks or high-speed pucks that can be directed straight to the face before you have a chance to react. With a certified mouthguard that fits properly in your mouth, your chances of keeping your teeth are significantly greater.

Which Mouthguard Should You Buy?
The most important thing is to buy a mouthguard made from CE-certified material that can be molded to fit your dental arch. This is usually done by dipping the mouthguard in boiling water, letting it cool enough so you don’t burn yourself, and then placing it in your upper jaw and biting down. Detailed instructions on how to perform this procedure are included with the mouthguard when you purchase it. If the mouthguard doesn’t mold to your dental arch, it won’t provide the protection needed, and it may also be uncomfortable to wear. A good mouthguard fits almost unnoticed in your mouth, allowing you to talk, breathe, drink, and bite down without shifting or causing any discomfort.