Mouthguards or Gumshields
Mouthguards are a must for any contact sport and even some which say they are not contact but where collisions can happen. There have been quite a few tests completed which lead to the conclusion that not only do mouth guards protect the teeth but they also act as a shock absorber by spreading the force over a larger area, increasing the time for the force to be transmitted and thus reducing the peak force and finally absorbing energy by elastic compression.
Types of Rugby Mouthguard
There are three types of guard available; shop purchase ready made these typically are the least effective (we do not recommend them), boil and bite these fit the shape of the mouth but are usually thin and although roughly fitting the shape of the mouth do not fit the differing heights of teeth (better than shop purchase but not as good as custom made). By far the most efficient product is the custom made mouthguard. These are produced from a mould taken of the teeth and fit snugly over the teeth following all contours. These are also usually made from thicker material than the boil and bite.
Recommendations for Rugby Gumshields
We are very committed to the use of Mouthguards by all players and although they are not obligatory within the laws of the game they are strongly recommended for adults. With most if not all clubs and counties insisting on children wearing them for both training and playing.
