As a hockey goalie, protecting your head and face from the puck is a must.
But with the introduction of modern technology, there is now another layer of protection that hockey goalies can add to their gear – a mouthguard.
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of wearing a mouthguard while playing hockey, the importance of fitting a mouthguard properly, how to choose the right mouthguard for hockey goalies, and other safety gear for hockey goalies.
Plus, we’ll look at examples of hockey goalies who wear mouthguards.
So, if you’ve ever considered wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and mouth, keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Yes, hockey goalies should wear mouthguards.
Not only do they protect the teeth and mouth from damage, they can also help reduce the risk of concussions.
Wearing a mouthguard is a simple and effective way to help ensure the safety of the goalie while they are playing.
It is also recommended that hockey goalies wear a helmet and other protective gear when playing.
Types of Mouthguards for Hockey Goalies
When it comes to protecting your teeth, jaw, and other facial structures, there are several different types of mouthguards available for hockey goalies.
Each type of mouthguard is designed to provide different levels of protection, comfort, and durability.
The first type of mouthguard is the stock mouthguard.
This is the most common and affordable type of mouthguard, and it is designed to fit any mouth size.
It is made from a pre-formed material and is easy to fit and adjust.
It provides basic protection for the teeth and gums, but it does not provide as much protection for the jaw or other facial structures as other types of mouthguards.
The second type of mouthguard is the boil-and-bite mouthguard.
This type of mouthguard is made from a material that can be softened in hot water and then molded to fit the wearer’s mouth.
It is more comfortable and provides better protection than the stock mouthguard.
The third type of mouthguard is the custom-made mouthguard.
This type of mouthguard is made from a mold that is taken of the wearer’s teeth.
It provides the most protection and comfort, and is the most expensive type of mouthguard.
No matter which type of mouthguard you choose, it is important that it fits properly and is comfortable to wear.
If a mouthguard does not fit properly, it will not provide the protection that you need.
It is also important to clean and maintain your mouthguard on a regular basis to ensure that it continues to provide the best protection.
Pros of Wearing a Mouthguard
When it comes to playing hockey, it is essential that goalies are well protected.
Wearing a mouthguard is an important part of this protection.
Not only do mouthguards help protect the teeth from being damaged or knocked out, but they also help protect the jaw and other facial structures from impact.
Additionally, mouthguards can help prevent concussions by providing cushioning and absorbing energy.
Mouthguards are comfortable and lightweight, allowing goalies to be agile and still be well protected.
Furthermore, they are custom-made to fit the goalies mouth, providing a secure fit.
This ensures that the mouthguard will stay in place during the game and will not interfere with the goalies vision or ability to communicate with team members.
Mouthguards also help reduce the risk of broken jaws, which could result from a high-impact collision.
Finally, wearing a mouthguard can help the goalie focus on the game by providing peace of mind that they are well protected.
Overall, mouthguards are an important part of a goalies safety equipment and should be worn at all times while playing hockey.
They provide protection from facial trauma, broken jaws, and concussions, as well as a secure fit and peace of mind.
Cons of Wearing a Mouthguard
While wearing a mouthguard is important for protecting the mouth, there are some cons to consider when deciding whether or not to wear one.
One of the main cons is that some players find it uncomfortable to wear a mouthguard.
The mouthguard can feel bulky and can interfere with breathing or speaking.
Additionally, some players find the taste of the material of the mouthguard unpleasant.
Another con to wearing a mouthguard is that it can make it more difficult for a goalie to communicate with their team.
This can be a problem because communication is key in hockey and can help a team be successful.
Also, some goalies may find it difficult to effectively chew gum or eat while wearing a mouthguard, as it can be difficult to do so with the mouthguard in.
Finally, some mouthguards can be expensive and can require regular replacement, which can be a financial burden.
This can be especially true if the mouthguard needs to be professionally fitted.
Additionally, some players may find it difficult to maintain the mouthguard, as it needs to be properly cleaned and stored in order to keep it in good condition.
The Importance of Fitting a Mouthguard Properly
When it comes to wearing mouthguards, it’s not just about having one; it’s also about having one that fits properly.
A properly fitting mouthguard should be comfortable and not interfere with the goalie’s ability to breathe or speak.
It should also stay in place during play and not move around in the goalie’s mouth.
Additionally, it should provide a snug fit against the teeth and gums without being too tight or uncomfortable.
When getting fitted for a mouthguard, its important to ensure that it is made to fit the goalie’s individual mouth size and shape.
A mouthguard that is too big or too small can make it difficult for the goalie to breathe, and it may also not provide the best protection.
Many stores and specialty companies offer custom-fitted mouthguards that are made to fit each goalie’s unique mouth size and shape.
The material of the mouthguard is also important.
Generally, its best to choose a mouthguard that is made from a soft and flexible material, such as rubber or plastic.
This will ensure that the mouthguard is comfortable to wear and provides a good fit.
Its also important to choose a mouthguard that is tear-resistant and can withstand the wear and tear of playing hockey.
Finally, its important for goalies to make sure that their mouthguards are cared for properly.
This includes cleaning them regularly and storing them in a safe and dry place.
Doing so will ensure that the mouthguard lasts long enough to provide the goalie with adequate protection during play.
How to Choose the Right Mouthguard for Hockey Goalies
When selecting the right mouthguard for a hockey goalie, there are several things to consider.
First, the mouthguard should fit comfortably and securely, without being too tight or loose.
This ensures that the goalie is protected from impact and also allows them to speak and breathe freely.
Second, the mouthguard should be made of a durable material that can withstand repeated impacts.
Third, the mouthguard should provide a cushioning effect to help absorb energy and reduce the risk of a concussion.
Finally, the mouthguard should be easy to clean and maintain.
When it comes to choosing a mouthguard for hockey goalies, it is important to select one that is specifically designed for this purpose.
Off-the-shelf mouthguards are typically not suitable for hockey goalies, as they do not offer the same level of protection or fit.
It is also important to select a mouthguard that is approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
This ensures that the mouthguard meets the highest standards of safety and quality.
Finally, it is important to find a mouthguard that is comfortable and fits properly.
The best way to do this is to have the goalie try on several different types and sizes until they find the one that fits them best.
It is also a good idea to have the goalies dentist check the fit of the mouthguard to ensure that it is providing the proper protection.
With the right mouthguard, hockey goalies can feel confident that they are protected while playing the game.
Other Safety Gear for Hockey Goalies
In addition to wearing a mouthguard, hockey goalies should also consider wearing other protective gear.
This includes a helmet and face mask to protect the head and face from impact, a neck guard to provide additional protection to the neck, and a chest and arm protector to protect the torso.
Goalies should also wear gloves, shin guards, and a goal blocker to provide additional protection to the arms and legs.
Properly fitted protective gear is essential in order to ensure maximum protection from impact and injury.
It is also important for goalies to wear appropriate clothing to keep their bodies warm during games.
Goalies should always wear a base layer of clothing, such as long sleeve shirts and pants, to keep their muscles warm and to help prevent muscle pulls and strains.
Additionally, goalies should wear a helmet with a full face mask to protect their head, face, and eyes from the puck and other players sticks.
Finally, goalies should also make sure to wear proper footwear.
Hockey skates should fit snugly and be well-maintained to ensure the goalies have the best possible grip on the ice.
Wearing properly fitted and maintained skates will help goalies move quickly and efficiently during games.
Overall, goalies should wear the proper safety gear and clothing in order to protect themselves and play their best.
Wearing mouthguards is a crucial part of this, but goalies should also make sure they have the proper helmets, face masks, neck guards, chest and arm protectors, gloves, shin guards, goal blockers, and skates in order to remain safe and to protect their bodies from injury.
Examples of Hockey Goalies Who Wear Mouthguards
When it comes to hockey goalies wearing mouthguards, there are many examples of professional players who choose to wear them while playing.
One of the most notable examples is former NHL goaltender Martin Brodeur.
He wore a special type of mouthguard, designed to protect the jaw and other facial structures from impact.
He also wore his mouthguard for the majority of his career, and even after he retired, he still wore it during occasional appearances.
Other notable examples include current NHL star goalies like Braden Holtby, Tuukka Rask, and Tuukka Rask.
Each of these players have been vocal about the importance of wearing a mouthguard while playing.
Aside from professional players, there are also plenty of youth hockey goalies who wear mouthguards.
Many parents and coaches instill the importance of wearing a mouthguard in their children, and many youth hockey leagues require all players to wear them.
This is especially important for goalies, since they are often the first line of defense against shots.
Overall, it is clear that there is a large number of hockey goalies, both professional and amateur, who are choosing to wear mouthguards while playing.
By wearing a mouthguard, they are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves and their team from injury.
Final Thoughts
It is clear that mouthguards are an important part of a hockey goalie’s safety equipment.
Not only do they protect their mouth and jaw from impact, they also help prevent concussions, and can even save teeth from being knocked out.
With the right fitting and type of mouthguard, hockey goalies can ensure that they are well-protected while playing the game.
When considering the pros and cons of wearing a mouthguard, it is evident that hockey goalies should be wearing one.
If you are a hockey goalie, make sure to take the time to find the right mouthguard for you and be sure to fit it properly to get the most out of your protection.