When must a mouthguard be worn in boxing?

• A. During all sparring and bouts
• B. Only in official matches
• C. Only during practice if tired
• D. Only in warm-ups

Answer: (A)

Mouthguards are worn to protect teeth and the jaw whenever there is contact in boxing. Because sparring and bouts involve blows, the guard must be in place during all sparring and bouts to provide consistent protection. It wouldn’t be limited to official matches, since sparring carries real risk of injury; it isn’t something you skip when you’re tired, because the danger doesn’t disappear with fatigue; and it isn’t only for warm-ups, since you’re not boxing yet if you’re just warming up. Wearing it during all sparring and bouts keeps you protected in every boxing activity.