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It is extremely important to always protect your teeth well during sports, especially while playing hockey.
A hockey stick, but also the ball, can cause a lot of damage to your teeth.
So I would be happy to show you which mouthguard is best suited for you and offers the best protection and comfort.
Good quality hockey bits have a CE mark, are quite thin and are free from harmful materials such as PV, BPA and Latex.
The mouthguard must be easy to fit and sit well in your mouth, you must be able to speak and breathe well.
My overall best choice is the Opro Self-Fit Platinum Fangz, the very best bit from the top brand Opro. It costs quite a bit, but Opro gives you a free dental cover that can cover up to €9600. Then those few tens that you pay extra for it are suddenly not that much anymore, right?
| Best hockey bit | Image |
| Overall best hockey bit: OPRO Self-Fit Platinum Fangz | 
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| Best mouthguard for different sports: Safejawz Mouthguard Extro Series | 
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| Best cheap hockey mouthguard: Shock Doctor Pro | 
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| Best hockey mouthguard junior: Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Junior | 
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| Best hockey mouthguard for adults: OPRO Unisex's Silver Sports | 
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| Best mouthguard for senior braces: Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Aero Unisex | 
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| Best bit for junior braces: Shock Doctor Braces Strapless Junior | 
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What we discuss in this comprehensive post:
- 1 Tips when buying a hockey mouthguard
- 2 Best hockey bits reviewed
- 2.1 Overall best hockey mouthguard: Opro Self-Fit Platinum Fangz
- 2.2 Best mouthguard for different sports: Safejawz Mouthguard Extro Series
- 2.3 Best Cheap Hockey Mouthguard: Shock Doc Pro
- 2.4 Best hockey mouthguard junior: Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Junior
- 2.5 Best Adult Hockey Mouthguard: OPRO Unisex's Silver Sports
- 2.6 Best mouthguard for senior braces: Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Aero Unisex
- 2.7 Best mouthguard for junior braces: Shock Doctor Braces Strapless Junior
- 3 Frequently asked questions about hockey bits
- 4 Conclusion
Tips when buying a hockey mouthguard
Do you have trouble choosing a hockey mouthguard?
A hockey bit is mandatory and ensures that the blow of a hockey ball or hockey stick is distributed over all teeth instead of one tooth absorbing the blow. Some hockey bits also protect gums and jaws.
So buy a mouthguard that you like and that suits your teeth.
There are many different bits on the market – so pay attention – :
- unisex bits
- ladies bits
- men's bits
- junior bits
- junior or adult orthotics (suitable for braces wearers)
You may be looking for a very breathable mouthguard, and of course you also want one that you can talk to.
There are also single-layer bits, which are slightly cheaper and only have one protective layer. Then you have the two or more layer bits, these have a protective layer and another shock-absorbing layer.
The most important thing, however, is that you take a hockey mouthpiece in the right size.
Take a good look at the size of the mouthguard and, if necessary, look at your teeth in the mirror to estimate the size.
Read the instructions for use carefully, this improves wearing comfort and safety!
You will always find instructions for use with the thermoplastic bits. You can consult it to understand how you can make the mouthguard even better in warm water, but also by sometimes cutting a piece off.
I sincerely hope that you eventually buy a thermoplastic mouthguard, but you may prefer a universal mouthguard. Our best bit choices are all thermoplastic.
If you wear braces, then what? Then the 'normal' bits are usually not suitable. Then choose a special 'ortho bit', which not only protects your teeth, but also your braces.
Don't forget the shin guards either. I have reviewed the top 9 best hockey shin guards here
Best hockey bits reviewed
Why did I put these hockey bits in my list? I'll explain to you what makes them so good.
Overall best hockey mouthguard: Opro Self-Fit Platinum Fangz
The OPRO Self-Fit Platinum Fangz is without a doubt my favorite!
This mouthguard has 2 layers: the sturdy outer layer of this anatomically shaped hockey mouthguard absorbs the blows well, while the flexible inner layer provides great comfort.
Between the inner and the outer layer are extra damping zones to absorb the blows well. There are 13 'OPRPfins' on the inside: anatomically preformed fins.
The gel-like substance molds perfectly to your teeth and retains its shape even after several uses, and the mouthguard does not shift.
You can even talk with it, breathe – even during exercise – and drink with ease.
The mouthguard meets all requirements: free of toxic substances, has the CE mark and is made of sustainable materials.
OPRO is so confident in their own products that they even give you dental coverage. They have different coverages with their bits, from Bronze bits (protected up to € 4800) to Platinum bits (protected up to € 9600).
This OPRO is part of the Platinum series.
This sturdy hockey mouthguard weighs 81 grams – so it is not the lightest mouthguard – and comes with a storage box and spoon, it is a unisex mouthguard suitable for both adults and (somewhat older) children.
Check prices and availability here
Best mouthguard for different sports: Safejawz Mouthguard Extro Series
This Safejawz mouthguard Extro Series comes in all colors and has a funny design with teeth, but most importantly, it guarantees a perfect fit, if you don't agree, you get your money back.
The double layer with fluidfit technology fills the contours of your teeth well and it stays firmly in the mouth. Thanks to the 'ReModel Tech' you can repeat the fitting process several times, until you have the ideal fit.
Why the name Safejaws? This mouthguard claims to offer great 'JawSecure' jaw protection and will protect not only your teeth, but also your jaws against impact.
Not only in hockey, but in several sports such as rugby, all martial arts, ice hockey and all other contact sports.
This teeth, jaw and gum protector has an ultra-thin profile, a great price and optimal protection for different types of sports, it weighs 80 grams and is therefore not the lightest.
This mouthguard has a 4.4 out of 5 star rating on Amazon.nl. A customer writes:
I won't lie, I'm an amateur boxer with 30 fights under my belt and I've had many mouthguards. Safejawz makes the best affordable mouthguard on the market and has a good selection of styles to choose from. The mouthguard works flawlessly as long as you follow the instructions; i would say i had to leave the mouthguard in the boiling water for 50 seconds instead of 30, but other than that i couldn't be happier.
Check prices and availability here
Best Cheap Hockey Mouthguard: Shock Doc Pro
The lightweight Shock Doctor Pro is still a few euros cheaper than the heavier jaw protection Safejawz, therefore has a very modest price and yet consists of two good protective layers that ensure that shocks and blows are absorbed and distributed over the entire dental surface.
The air channels ensure that you can breathe optimally during exercise. The weight of this mouthguard is only 48 grams and it comes with a plastic protective box.
The customer reviews on Bol.com are excellent, 4.3 stars out of 5.
One satisfied customer wrote:
The mouthguard has a good fit, is small and made of a pleasant material. Does not cut into your gums.
Another comment was:
Feels more solid than the cheaper standard bits.
Best hockey mouthguard junior: Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Junior
Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Junior is the lightest and most comfortable mouthguard for children. Ok, the mouthguard is not cheap, but this is now a really useful expense.
Just 1,6mm thick – it's a single-ply mouthguard – the Aero is up to 50% thinner than other sports mouthguards. Your child will not even notice that there is a mouthguard in his mouth while playing hockey and therefore will not complain about it.
The many air holes allow comfortable breathing and talking.
This mouthguard can also be used if your child has braces, although the Shock Doctor Braces Strapless Junior (which I discuss below) is a lot cheaper for braces-wearing children and also offers excellent protection.
This unisex model is available in all colors and good for kids aged 7 to 10 years, made of EVA. This material is a flexible and soft material that can come in all kinds of colors.
EVA feels velvety and is a safe type of plastic. A pleasant one, especially for children who often dislike mouthguards.
View all available variants here
Best Adult Hockey Mouthguard: OPRO Unisex's Silver Sports
Another one from OPRO, but not from the Platinum collection now (like my overall dear OPRO Self-Fit Platinum Fangz), but from their Silver collection: the OPRO Unisex's Silver Sports.
Expert dental protection is also guaranteed with this mouthguard, although this model is slightly cheaper than its Platinum brother with coverage up to € 9600; the Silver has dental coverage up to € 6400,-. The difference in price is therefore mainly in the dental coverage.
The unisex OPRO Silver is BPA-free, has a flexible inner layer and an impact-resistant double outer layer.
The anatomical lamellae give this mouthguard a tight and comfortable fit, so that the mouthguard fits neatly around your teeth and gums.
OPRO therefore uses a patented system that helps shape the mouthguard. By the way, you can breathe and speak well while wearing it, but it is not suitable for braces wearers.
This Opro scores 4,3 on Amazon, a satisfied customer says:
As always, I had to cut off the ends of each bit to make it fit. However, this is the bit with the best 'seal' and I can also talk well with it while wearing. The training instructions are clear and so is the advice such as 'drink cold water' etc.
Interested in a career switch? Read: Everything you need to know to become a hockey referee
Best mouthguard for senior braces: Sisu Mouthguard Next Gen Aero Unisex
This mouthguard is well suited for braces wearers and weighs only 15 grams, it has a single layer of protection. With its slim 1,6mm and super-lightweight design, the Sisu Next Gen Aero Unisex Mouthguard is 50% thinner than other sports mouthguards.
This Sisu offers you optimal comfort for only a slightly higher than average price.
The shape is easy to adjust and you will not even notice that you are wearing a mouthguard while exercising. Breathing, talking and drinking water is 'just' comfortable with this mouthguard.
The bit has no sharp edges for optimal wearing comfort. The material is velvety soft EVA, which feels nice and soft in the mouth and does not cause any irritation.
The advice is that this mouthguard is suitable for people from 1.50M to 1.80M tall, or from 10 years. Bol.com claims that this is the safest, thinnest and most comfortable mouthguard they have tested to date.
The fit remains good and can be adjusted several times, ideal if your teeth are still subject to change.
Check prices and availability here
Best mouthguard for junior braces: Shock Doctor Braces Strapless Junior
This has been compared to the Sisu Junior above – which you can also use with braces – a lot heavier; 80 grams, while the Sisu Junior weighs only 15 grams, but is a lot more expensive.
Please note: this Shock Doctor mouthguard is suitable for children under 10 years of age or older children who have not yet completely switched, while the above Sisu can be suitable for adults, but also for older children over 10, who have already switched completely.
Made in the USA from 100% medical grade silicone, this mouthguard is ergonomically designed to fit your braces. The mouthguard is latex, BPA and Phthalate free.
The model offers your child an 'Instant Fit – Pop In & Play' – ie the mouthguard is ready right out of the package to provide excellent protection.
If your braces are adjusted, the mouthguard will adjust itself again. Your child will not suffer from rough edges or irritations.
In the US, the mouthguard complies with national high school regulations that require full coverage of the top bracket during certain sports competitions and protect the user on the field.
Even with this well-priced mouthpiece, a whopping $10.000 dental warranty is offered!
Frequently asked questions about hockey bits
Now that we've looked at the best hockey bits, I'll answer a few more frequently asked questions about these types of bits.
Why wear a hockey mouthguard?
First, you would like to protect your teeth against damage, not only because you value your teeth, but also because of the costs you face if your teeth suffer major damage.
Secondly, since 2015, wearing a mouthguard has also been mandatory, and that, in my opinion, is a correct requirement of the KNHB.
A hockey bit ensures that the force of a hockey ball or hockey stick is distributed over all teeth instead of one tooth absorbing the blow. Some hockey bits also protect gums and jaws.
Not wearing a mouthguard is therefore asking for trouble. The damage to your teeth can be extensive and the costs enormous.
Universal hockey bit or on a thermoplastic bit?
The KNHB strongly recommends a custom mouthguard (the correct term is thermoplastic mouthguard), but it is not forbidden to play with a universal hockey mouthguard.
You can simply buy the thermoplastic bits at the various web shops; As you can see, going to the dentist for such a mouthguard is not necessary!
You put a thermoplastic mouthguard in hot water until it becomes soft and flexible. You place the bit in your mouth and bite your teeth together; so it adapts perfectly to the shape of your teeth.
Which bit size should you choose?
Hockey bits are usually available in only two sizes; junior and senior.
The junior bits are normally suitable for children up to 10-11 years, but this also depends on the height of a child.
With the Shock Doctor mouthguards, it is best to choose the children's size for children aged 10 years or younger and the adult size from 11 years. After that, they can use a senior mouthguard.
With juniors, there usually comes a time when a junior bit is actually too small, but a senior bit is still too big. You also hear that people cut off a piece of a bit, and that that's fine too.
With a number of brands you can use approximately the following sizes:
- size S if you measure between 110 and 140 cm
- size M if you are 140 to 170 cm tall
- size L from a length of 170 cm
The size can also depend on how quickly the teeth are changed, so you can also maintain that if your child has already changed his teeth, he can switch to a senior mouthguard.
How do I make a custom thermoplastic mouthguard?
Prepare two bowls of water, one with cold water and one with warm water. Take the mouthguard out of the package and place it in the bowl of warm water.
Wait 15 to 30 seconds, then flip it over, and wait another 15 to 30 seconds.
When the mouthguard is soft, put it in your mouth, bite it and suck at the same time. Press your fingers along your top lip and press your tongue well against your palate, 20 seconds is long enough.
Next, place the mouthguard in cold water for 15 to 30 seconds, then flip it over and wait another 15 to 30 seconds. Check whether the bit fits properly; if not, repeat the procedure.
Watch this video on YouTube on how to make a custom thermoplastic hockey mouthguard:
How long does a hockey mouthguard last?
A mouthguard, also called a bit or mouthguard, is a plastic protective cover for the teeth and jaw. They are often made from the plastic ethylene vinyl acetate, EVA.
The hockey bit will last until damage or problems such as:
- tearing
- frayed edges
- bitten spots
- it no longer fits exactly
And that applies not only to the upper teeth, but also if the lower teeth no longer fit in the cavities at the bottom of the mouthguard.
Conclusion
Choosing a high-quality mouthguard is the best choice you can make if you or your child like to play hockey.
A more expensive mouthguard – and we are talking about 10-20 euros more – is already better preformed and is often thinner and feels more comfortable in the mouth.
A good hockey mouthguard ensures that you can breathe and talk better with the mouthguard in your mouth.
There are also bits that are thinner and bits that contain just two layers for extra protection. Think carefully about what is more important to you: comfort or optimal protection.
Also read: Best Field Hockey Stick | view our top 9 tested sticks
