How to Adjust a Football Mouthpiece

One of the most important pieces of football equipment is rarely seen by fans, but possibly the best protection for a football player. A football mouthpiece is a football player's best protection against tooth loss, gum protection and, most seriously, concussion. The ability to properly adjust the football mouthpiece by the player or parent is crucial to the safety of the football participant.

Instructions

1. Select the right football mouthpiece. There are several brands available from local sporting goods stores, but it's important to buy a mouthpiece specifically designed for football. Look for a mouthpiece for the upper and lower teeth for extra protection. These double-layered mouthpieces are especially good for players who have braces or have trouble protecting their teeth and mouth. Most players use a mouthpiece designed for the upper teeth only.

2. Read the package and warning label. Football is a contact sport due to jarring blows to the head and mouth areas. The package lists the proper instructions for fitting and adjusting a mouthpiece as well as the warranty of product. Careful viewing of the package helps keep the football player safe and protected.

3. Submit the warranty and additional insurance coverage form to the manufacturer. Occasionally, football players suffer major and sometimes catastrophic head injuries. In the event that the football player suffers this severe trauma, the mouthpiece manufacturer provides extra insurance and liability monies to protect the player or player's family financially. Unfortunately, no policies are paid for those individuals that don't submit the voluntary paperwork.

4. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Remove the mouthpiece from the wrapper and place in the hot water for approximately 30 to 45 seconds. The softened plastic allows the football player to form the mouthpiece to the shape and size of their teeth.

5. Use caution with the boiling water. For safety, it may be important to let the water stand for a few moments it boils. If the football player is in grade school or junior high, please use adult supervision.

6. Remove mouthpiece and rinse under cold water for a brief second. This makes the mouthpiece bearable to place in the mouth without fear of burning.

7. Insert mouthpiece and bite down firmly. Suck the mouthpiece for about 30 seconds to help shape the gum line and upper teeth. For additional shaping, push the mouthpiece around the gum line with fingers to help create a tighter fit. When successful, the mouthpiece comfortably fits in the mouth and doesn't fall down or out when the mouth is open. If the fit feels awkward or uncomfortable, repeat the process by inserting the mouthpiece in boiling water and continue until satisfied with fit.

8. Throw away the mouthpiece if it becomes loose or broken. Many football players chew the mouthpiece unnecessarily causing the mouthpiece to lose its protectiveness. Avoid cutting or shortening the mouthpiece. Check the mouthpiece weekly and replace if worn or ineffective.