uppermouthguard

An uppermouthguard, also known as an upper dental protector or a maxillary mouthguard, is a piece of oral equipment designed to fit over the upper teeth. Its primary function is to shield the teeth, gums, and other oral tissues from injury. Uppermouthguards are commonly used in sports that involve a risk of facial impact, such as boxing, martial arts, hockey, and American football. They work by absorbing and distributing the force of an impact, thereby reducing the likelihood of chipped or broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue damage to the lips and cheeks.

These devices can be fabricated from various materials, typically thermoplastic polymers that can be molded to the wearer's teeth for a secure and comfortable fit. There are generally three types of uppermouthguards: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fitted. Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and offer the least protection and fit. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are heated in water and then molded by the user biting into them. Custom-fitted mouthguards are created by a dental professional and offer the best fit and maximum protection. The use of an uppermouthguard is often recommended or mandated by sports organizations to enhance player safety. Beyond sports, they can also be used by individuals who grind their teeth (bruxism) during sleep, although in such cases, they are typically referred to as night guards and may be designed differently.