Top 5 Mouth Guard Mistakes Football Players Make—and How to Avoid Them
A football mouthguard—whether strapped or strapless—can be one of the most overlooked pieces of protective gear. Finding the best mouth guard for football players is essential. But when used improperly, it can lead to more harm than good. There are many common football mouth guard mistakes. From poor-fitting mouth guards in youth football to not understanding how to boil or microwave for a proper fit, many athletes unknowingly make mistakes that impact their safety. You may be wondering, why your football mouth guard isn’t working. This article breaks down the most common football mouth guard mistakes and how to avoid football mouth guard problems, while also touching on football mouth guard safety tips—whether you're a parent, youth athlete, or high school player. Learn how to ensure your football mouthguard does what it’s supposed to: protect your teeth and jaw.
Mistake #1: Not Fitting the Mouth Guard Properly
A poorly fitted mouthguard is one of the biggest risks on the field. Mouth guard fitting errors football can cause many issues while playing. If your mouthguard is too loose, too tight, or shifts when you talk, it's not giving you the full level of protection. Poor-fitting mouthguard football can compromise shock absorption and even fall out during impact.
How to Fix It
Follow the fitting instructions exactly—whether you’re using the boil-and-bite or microwave method. Goon Guard, the best football mouthguard of the market, uses a microwave-fit process that makes it easy to achieve a snug, low-profile fit. Don’t forget: Goon Guard mouth guards are remoldable, so you can refit them as needed. This is especially helpful for players with braces or growing mouths.
Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Type—Strap vs. Strapless
Some players wear a strapped mouthguard that tethers to their helmet, while others go for a strapless version. But choosing one without considering your position and needs can be a mistake.
How to Fix It
Strapped mouth guards are ideal for linemen and defensive players who want extra security. Strapless football mouthguards are preferred by quarterbacks and wide receivers who need to communicate clearly. Goon Guard offers both options, including custom football mouth guards with a tether or without.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Damage or Wear
Mouthguards take a beating. Over time, they can become thin, chewed up, or cracked. Continuing to use a damaged guard drastically reduces its effectiveness. Choosing a durable mouth guard is essential.
How to Fix It
Inspect your football mouthguard regularly. If you see signs of wear or deterioration, replace it immediately. Choosing a durable mouth guard is also half the battle. For best protection, choose a durable material like Goon Guard’s SmartForm™, known for its long-lasting impact resistance.
Mistake #4: Not Cleaning the Mouthguard
Neglecting hygiene can lead to bacteria build-up, bad breath, or even infections. Youth athletes especially tend to toss their mouth guards into a gym bag without thinking.
How to Fix It
After each use, rinse your mouth guard with water and use a toothbrush to clean it. Goon Guard mouthguards are dishwasher safe and come with a ventilated case and carabiner to help keep them dry and clean. Further, Goon Guard offers a mouthguard cleaner via its website.
Mistake #5: Assuming One Size Fits All
Not all mouths are the same—especially between youth football players and high school athletes. Goon Guard offers both adult and youth sizes. Wrong sized mouth guards is one of the top mouthguard issues in youth football. A generic mouthguard may not offer the level of protection your player needs.
How to Fix It
Look for a mouthguard made for your age and level of play. Goon Guard offers custom mouthguards for youth and high school players, each designed with size, comfort, and retention in mind. The guidelines are that adult size mouthguards are for athletes ages 11 and over and youth size mouthguards are for athletes 10 and under.
Final Thoughts: Damage Control Starts with the Right Fit
Football players not wearing mouth guards right are risking more than dental damage—they’re risking jaw injuries. Using a properly fitted, well-maintained, sport-specific mouth guard is one of the smartest plays you can make. Whether you’re dealing with braces, need a low-profile fit, or want a custom strap, Goon Guard is perfect for you. Don’t settle for average—choose protection that performs.