Key Takeaways

• Mouthguards significantly reduce the risk of orofacial injuries in soccer, even though they are rarely mandated.
• Custom-fitted mouthguards from a dentist offer the best protection and comfort, leading to higher compliance.
• The most important factor is not the theoretical protection level, but whether the player will actually wear it.
• Evidence for concussion prevention is mixed; recommend mouthguards confidently for dental, not brain, protection.

Yes, soccer players should wear a mouthguard. A mouthguard for soccer is a protective dental device that shields the teeth, gums, and jaw from impact. While most leagues don't mandate them, orofacial injuries are surprisingly common. The best mouthguard is the one your player will actually wear — and that almost always comes down to fit and comfort, not just the spec sheet.

Most guides focus on "high-protection" ratings. But a top-tier guard left in a kit bag protects exactly nothing. Comfort and fit are the real deciding factors for real-world injury prevention. 

Yes, and more often than most people think. Orofacial injuries — injuries to the mouth, teeth, and face — make up a meaningful share of all soccer injuries. A review in the *Journal of the American Dental Association* found that orofacial injuries account for 3% to 38% of all injuries in non-mandated sports, including soccer  A 2025 study from Croatia reported that 36.2% of soccer players had experienced an orofacial injury, yet only 7.4% used a mouthguard 

The FDI World Dental Federation defines three types of mouthguards. Each offers a different balance of protection, cost, and comfort.

Citable line: The FDI World Dental Federation defines three mouthguard types — stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made — with custom guards made from an impression or 3D scan offering the best fit and protection. 

Honestly, the evidence is mixed. This is a critical distinction. Mouthguards are proven to reduce dental and orofacial trauma. A study by the National Athletic Trainers' Association found that non-users were nearly twice as likely to suffer an orofacial injury . However, the evidence for preventing concussion is less clear. Some studies suggest a benefit, while others show no significant effect.

Recommendation: Recommend a mouthguard confidently for protecting teeth. Do not over-promise on concussion prevention.

Forget the marketing hype. Here’s how to decide:

1. Prioritize Fit Over Features. A guard that doesn't fit will be left in the bag. A custom-fitted guard from a dentist is the gold standard for fit.
2. Consider the Player's Age. Children's mouths grow. A custom guard for a child may need replacement every season. A boil-and-bite can be a cost-effective interim solution.
3. Look for the Player's Input. Let the player choose the color or design. A guard they like is a guard they'll wear.
4. Pair with a Dental Check-Up. Use the mouthguard fitting as an opportunity for a full exam.

The World Cup and local soccer seasons create a natural moment for dental marketing. Offer group fitting sessions for local clubs and schools. This builds community trust and generates new patient leads.

• Offer a "Soccer Player Special". Combine a custom mouthguard fitting with a check-up and cleaning.
• Educate Coaches. Provide a one-page handout on the importance of mouthguards. Coaches are powerful advocates.
• Prepare for Emergencies. Make sure your team knows how to handle a knocked-out tooth. 

Few do, despite the known risks. This represents a significant gap that dentists can help close by educating younger players.

For adults, a custom guard typically lasts 1–3 seasons. Children need replacements as they grow, often every 6–12 months .

Yes, it's a fair budget option. It will offer better protection than a stock guard, but it won't match the fit and comfort of a custom one.

Requirements vary by league and country. However, given the injury statistics, it is strongly recommended regardless of mandate.

A mouthguard is a simple, effective tool for preventing orofacial injuries in soccer. The best choice is the one your player will actually wear — and that almost always means a custom-fitted guard from a dentist. Don't let a guard sit in the bag. Focus on comfort, involve the player in the decision, and make it a routine part of their gear.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional dental advice.