Why do hockey players chew their mouth guards

Watch any NHL game and you'll notice something pretty odd. Players constantly chew their mouthguards on the bench, during stoppages, even while waiting for faceoffs. Trevor van Riemsdyk and countless other pros do it all the time. But why do hockey players chew their mouth guards? It's not random there's actualy real science behind the habit.

The nervous habit that keeps players focused

Chewing a mouthguard works like gum or fidgeting (honestly, it's basically the same thing). Players use it to manage nerves during intense moments and downtime on the bench. The repetitive chewing action calms anxiety and sharpens mental focus when pressure builds. Think of it the same way some people tap their feet or click pens during stressful situations. For hockey players, the mouthguard becomes a stress-relief tool that helps them stay sharp and ready for the next play.

Why mouthguards matter even if players chew them

Mouthguards protect teeth, tongues, and jaws from real damage. They absorb impact from pucks, sticks, and collisions with other players. Youth leagues require them until age 19-20. The NHL makes them optional, but most players wear them anyway. Contrary to popular belief, mouthguards don't prevent concussions. They're designed specifically for dental and jaw protection, and they do that job well.

The damage chewing does to protection gear

Here's the problem: constant chewing wears mouthguards out faster, especially on one side A worn-out mouthguard loses effectiveness and stops protecting properly Players should replace them regularly to maintain full protection The discomfort from chewing can actually create a cycle an uncomfortable mouthguard makes players chew more, which causes more wear Keeping the mouthguard properly positioned during play helps reduce unnecessary chewing and extends its lifespan.

Understanding why players chew their mouthguards changes how we watch the game. It's not careless behavior it's a mental strategy. Next time you see a player working their mouthguard, know they're managing pressure and staying mentally locked in. Just remember that those same mouthguards are doing serious protective work, even when they're getting chewed on.