We’ve talked about our company history, but do you the origin story of the mouthguard itself? Mouthguards of various kinds have been used since ancient times. They have evolved over time, from the earliest form of mouthguard crafted out of animal hide or gold. All the way until now, and over the last 100+ years, when we saw the rise of modern mouthguards.
1 – Ancient Times & The History of Mouthguard Use
According to legend, mouthpiece-type tools can be tied to the Egyptians, Greeks, Etruscans, Romans, and Vikings. We have used mouthpiece-type tools for a long time! These purposes include teeth-correcting, stabilizing the jaw, or preparing a warrior for battle.
Over time, mouthguards became more advanced technologically. In modern times, they are an essential piece of equipment for contact sports. They protect against broken teeth, concussions, and more while offering performance benefits too.
2 – The Growing Popularity of Mouthguard Use Across History
The modern mouthguard has come a long way since its invention in the 19th century. In the 1800s, boxers used cotton rags soaked in water to create a barrier between their teeth and incoming punches. In 1892, dentist Woolf Krause invented the modern mouthguard, called a gum shield, made from gum-percha tree sap.
Today, contact sports such as football, rugby, hockey, and fight sports benefit from the evolution of the mouthguard. From protecting teeth and gums to preventing concussions and improving performance. A modern-day mouthguard is a powerful tool for athletes competing in contact sports. Today, these are made of many materials, including thermoplastic, laminated vinyl, and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate).
3 – Why Your Mouthguard Needs a Present Cleaning Solution
Mouthguards are, and have always been, a game changer. But when they’re not cleaned regularly, it can lead have negative effects. Top among them is a buildup of bacterial growth, leading to infections, tooth decay, and illness.
This is why we created G’rilla Box, the first self-cleaning mouthguard case. So you never forget to go through your cleaning routine again. We’re launching later this year, so sign up for updates to get the latest info!