Gear
Best Mouthguards for Taekwondo: Custom vs Boil-and-Bite vs Stock
A mouthguard is the cheapest gear you will wear and the one that protects your teeth. Here is how the three types compare and how to choose.
Reviewed by Daniel Reyes, 4th dan Kukkiwon, 18 years teaching | Last checked: October 26, 2026The American Dental Association describes three types of mouthguard: custom-made by a dentist (best fit and protection), boil-and-bite (softened in hot water, then bitten to your teeth) and ready-made stock (cheapest, poorest fit). A stock or boil-and-bite guard is better than none. For most taekwondo students a boil-and-bite guard is the practical choice, and anyone with braces should ask their orthodontist.
| Types | Custom-made, boil-and-bite, stock |
|---|---|
| Best fit and protection | Custom-made, from a dentist |
| Most practical for most students | Boil-and-bite |
| Lowest cost, worst fit | Stock |
| With braces | Ask your orthodontist; use a well-fitted guard |
| Never | Wear a removable retainer while sparring |
| ADA Seal examples | CustMbite MVP and CustMbite Pro (boil-and-bite) |
| Worn in sparring | Required by most schools and tournaments |
Why a mouthguard matters in taekwondo
Kicks and punches travel fast, and the face is a target in sparring. In the 2018 World Junior Championships, 14 of the 67 recorded injuries were to the face. A mouthguard cushions the teeth, lips and jaw and spreads force from a hit. See the full numbers in is taekwondo safe.
The three types compared
| Type | How it is made | Fit | Protection | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom-made | Dentist takes a mold of your teeth and a lab makes the guard | Best | Best | Highest | Braces, regular competitors, anyone with dental work |
| Boil-and-bite | Soften in hot water, bite to mold it to your teeth | Good if molded well | Good | Moderate | Most students, kids and adults |
| Stock | Ready-made, worn as it comes | Poorest | Lowest | Lowest | A short-term stand-in only |
The ADA says a stock or boil-and-bite guard is better than wearing none. Stock guards fit poorly and are bulky.
Which one to buy
| Your situation | Pick |
|---|---|
| New student, no dental work | Boil-and-bite |
| Child still losing baby teeth | Boil-and-bite, replaced as the mouth changes |
| Wearing braces | Ask the orthodontist; follow their advice on a guard that fits over the braces |
| Competing regularly | Custom-made from your dentist |
| Removable retainer or bridge | Never wear it during sparring; ask your dentist about a custom guard |
| Need a guard tonight | Stock, then replace it as soon as you can |
How to mold a boil-and-bite guard
- Read the box. Water temperature and time differ between brands.
- Soften the guard in hot water as directed.
- Place it over your upper teeth and bite down gently.
- Press with your tongue and fingers to shape it around your teeth.
- Cool it in cold water so it holds its shape.
- Check the fit. It should stay in place when you open your mouth slightly and should not gag you.
Repeat the molding if it feels loose. Follow the maker’s heat instructions exactly, since heat can distort a guard.
Care and cleaning
- Rinse it before and after each use.
- Clean it in cool, soapy water and brush it gently.
- Store it in a firm, vented case.
- Keep it away from heat, direct sun and pets.
- Bring it to every sparring class, and check it for cracks and wear.
When to replace a mouthguard
| Sign | Action |
|---|---|
| Teeth marks that have gone through or thinned areas | Replace |
| Cracks, tears or rough edges | Replace |
| It no longer fits or feels loose | Replace or remold |
| Child has grown or lost teeth | Replace; kids may need new guards more often |
| After orthodontic changes | Check fit; replace if needed |
Mouthguards with braces
The ADA advises people with braces to wear a well-fitted guard and to ask the orthodontist for advice. A guard made for braces leaves room for tooth movement. Do not wear a removable retainer while sparring.
What tournaments expect
Most tournaments require a mouthguard in sparring. Check the event notice for any rules on guard color or type. Read the competition rules and the sparring gear checklist before you buy.
Build the rest of your kit
A mouthguard is one item in a full set. See best taekwondo sparring gear and the gear guides for headgear, chest protectors and shin guards.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best mouthguard for taekwondo?
A custom-made guard from a dentist protects best. A boil-and-bite guard is the practical choice for most students.
Is a boil-and-bite mouthguard good enough?
Yes for most students. The ADA says a boil-and-bite or stock guard is better than none.
Can I wear a mouthguard with braces?
Yes, with a well-fitted guard. Ask your orthodontist which type is best.
Can I wear a retainer while sparring?
No. Remove retainers and use a guard instead.
How do I clean a mouthguard?
Rinse before and after use, then clean it in cool, soapy water.
How often should I replace a mouthguard?
When it is worn, cracked or no longer fits. Children may need replacements more often.
Do I need a mouthguard in class?
Wear it for sparring and any drill with contact. Check your school rule for other classes.
Should I wear headgear as well?
Yes in sparring. A mouthguard protects teeth, lips and jaw. Headgear covers the head and face.