One of our most popular blog posts has always been our guide to moulding mouthguards.

This is a guide only – it is important to carefully follow any specific instructions detailed in the leaflet included with your mouthguard purchase.

Using a mouthguard in contact sports – such as hockey, AFL, soccer, rugby and boxing – is very important, especially for junior players. A properly fitted mouthguard is essential for protection. The most popular type of mouthguard is the self-fit, which is heated and then formed to fit your mouth.

To mould a mouthguard:

1. Boil a small pot of water, then transfer the boiling water into a ceramic bowl.

2. Submerge the mouthguard for about 20 seconds. The mouthguard should have instructions for the correct amount of time. Remember, the mouthguard should be heated to the point that you are able to mould it, not the point where it starts to melt.

3. Remove the mouthguard from the water using a spoon or its fitting handle (if one was supplied). Do not squeeze as this may deform the mouthguard.

4. Cool the mouthguard either by dipping it in cool water or air-drying. Check your mouthguard instructions to see if water is recommended. You only need to cool the mouthguard to the point where you can put it in your mouth without burning yourself.

5. Place the mouthguard into your mouth to mould it. Push the mouthguard against your teeth with your fingers and bite down for about 30 seconds. Pull the guard tighter to your teeth by placing your tongue against the roof of your mouth and sucking the air and water out.

6. Now you need to cool the mouthguard. Some instructions advise that the guard is cooled rapidly after it has been fitted by dipping it in cold water, or by keeping it in the mouth while drinking some cool water.

* If the mouthguard does not fit properly, you can remould it by starting the process again.

Using a mouth-formed mouthguard is the easiest way to ensure the mouthguard fits perfectly to your mouth. Be sure to inspect your mouthguard frequently and replace it if it becomes deformed or you notice that the edges become jagged.

Sportsmart stocks a variety of mouthguards from Signature and Opro for both seniors and juniors.

Our Signature mouthguards are available in Type 1 (entry-level), Type 2 (available in club colours) and Type 3 (Vipa – includes a polycarbonate insert).

Our Opro range includes the Opro Junior, Opro Bronze, Opro Silver, Opro Gold and Opro Platinum, available in a variety of colours and in an Ortho option.

You can view our range of mouthguards online or visit a store to select the type that will best suit your sporting needs.

Opro Platinum Mouthguard

Opro Ortho Gold Mouthguard – black

Opro Silver Mouthguard – white

Opro Bronze Mouthguard – black

Opro Junior Mouthguard – yellow