Because you want to keep showing teeth when you smile.

Choosing a mouthguard is about more than ticking a box on your gear list. The right guard affects comfort, protection, breathing, and performance. Think of it like shoes: if they don’t fit properly, you’ll notice it with every step. The same principle applies here—especially the moment impact happens.

This guide walks you through the essentials: how to choose the right size, the differences between fitting methods, how to shape your mouthguard correctly, and how to care for it so it lasts. Whether you’re new to sports or competing at an elite level, understanding these principles will help you protect both your teeth and your focus.

Size matters – choosing the right fit

Finding the correct size is the foundation for both comfort and protection. A guard that’s too small won’t cover your teeth properly and may feel tight, while one that’s too large can irritate the palate or shift on impact—like a helmet that moves when it should stay put.

Jaw development plays a key role. On average, females reach full jaw growth around 16, while males continue developing until about 21. Age-based size charts are useful starting points, but actual jaw size should guide your final choice.

Many brands use a simplified “under 10 / over 10” size split. At lobloo®, sizing is based on anatomical development: M (10–13 years) and L (14+), which more accurately reflects real jaw growth patterns.

A properly sized guard should cover all the front teeth and reach just far enough to include the second innermost molar on each side. The softer moulding material may flow up and reach part of the palate, helping the guard lock into place. The hard outer layer, however, should never press against the palate—it can cause discomfort and affect the fit negatively.

Fit – where the real difference lies

The way a mouthguard fits determines how well it performs.

Traditional boil & bite guards are shaped by the user’s bite and suction during heating. Many of these have limited moulding material, meaning they often don’t fully cover the teeth and jaw. Even with careful moulding, results can vary and the fit may be inconsistent.

lobloo® is the only brand using a modified vacuum-fit technique, combined with a specially developed moulding material. This method draws the material up and around the teeth and jaw in a controlled way, creating a thinner, more precise and locked-in fit that follows the dental structure more closely than traditional guards.

This technique was developed by studying the natural structure of the jaw, teeth and surrounding tissue, focusing on how the jaw distributes and absorbs impact. By applying these biological principles, lobloo® created a guard that fits like a natural extension of the dental structure, improves airflow and distributes force efficiently where the jaw is naturally strongest.

Fitting – why the method matters 

Even the best mouthguard won’t perform well if it’s poorly moulded. The fitting process determines whether the guard locks securely onto the teeth and supports optimal breathing and protection.

lobloo® uses a sensitive, high-precision moulding material designed to be heated for an exact amount of time in boiling water. Even if you’ve moulded traditional boil & bite guards before, it’s essential to carefully read and follow the included instructions. Our material and modified vacuum-fit technique behave differently from standard guards—and it’s precisely this level of accuracy that achieves a dentist-level fit at home.

Care and maintenance

A well-fitted mouthguard will last longer and stay hygienic if you care for it properly. Follow these simple steps:

• Rinse with cool water before and after use.
• Clean gently with a soft toothbrush and mild toothpaste.
• Avoid hot water, which can deform the material.
• Store it in a ventilated case so it can dry completely.
• Replace your guard if it shows signs of wear or no longer fits securely.

Keep it cool and handy

High temperatures can deform your guard. Don’t leave it in direct sunlight or in the car. Keep it in a cool, dry place—ideally in a ventilated case. And remember: the best mouthguard is the one you actually have with you when it’s time to train or compete.

Summary

Choosing the right mouthguard comes down to three key factors:

Size – based on jaw development, not just simplified age categories.

Fit – with enough moulding material and a technique that shapes it precisely to your dental structure.

Care – proper maintenance to keep it hygienic and effective over time.

Understanding these basics turns your mouthguard from a generic piece of gear into a custom-fitted layer of protection that works with your anatomy, not against it.

----------------------------------------

An article by Usama Aziz

Olympian, European MMA Champion & Founder of lobloo®

Usama Aziz is a two-time Olympic wrestler, former European MMA Champion and founder of the Swedish protective gear brand lobloo®. He has extensive experience with elite-level performance and injury rehabilitation, both as an athlete and coach.