05/29/2026
While the American Dental Association recommends the use of mouthguards for many sports, they are only mandated for a handful. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) mandates mouthguards for football, field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse, and wrestling (only for wrestlers wearing braces).
That being said ,just because it isn’t mandated , doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it . If you or your child play a sport or participate in recreational activities, the use of a mouthguard should be considered. Using a mouthguard can reduce your risk of mouth-related injuries, including to the teeth, lips, tongue, and soft tissue. Recent studies report that the use of mouthguards can also minimize the severity of a concussion.
If you participate in any sport, consider your risk of facial injury. For example, softball is not a mandated sport for mouthguards. However, if you are the pitcher on a fast-pitch softball team, line drives are common. A line drive to the face could cause extensive dental damage, but your teeth would be protected with a mouthguard. Playing soccer, goalies, and other players may be hit with the ball. We recommend a soccer mouthguard to everyone.
There are many different kinds of mouth guards . If you’re not sure what kind you or your child should use , just ask!!