NFHS high school football requires a tooth and mouth protector. For the 2026 season, the NFHS bars attachments that do not protect the teeth or mouth, along with items that create a health or safety risk. The NCAA also mandates mouthguards in football; youth, flag and 7v7 programs set requirements through their own current rulebooks.
Mouthguard rules depend on the rulebook governing the game. The NFHS and NCAA require a mouthguard in football, while youth and flag events can use their own equipment lists and modifications.
Compare requirements by level
| Level or format | Requirement to plan for | Primary rule reference |
|---|---|---|
| NFHS high school tackle | Tooth and mouth protector required; NFHS attachment restrictions apply from the 2026 season | Current NFHS football rules and 2025 rule-change notice |
| NCAA college | Mouthguard required under NCAA football rules | Current NCAA Football Rules Book |
| Youth tackle | Follow the local league’s current equipment list; youth programs may set their own rulebook | League or state association handbook |
| Flag or 7v7 | Check the organizer’s current requirement and any model restrictions | League or tournament rules |
What changed for NFHS play in 2026
The NFHS says that a tooth and mouth protector may not have attachments that do not serve a purpose in protecting teeth or the mouth. It also bars items that present a health or safety risk to the player or others. The rule applies to NFHS high school football; do not assume another age group or tournament uses the same wording.
Choose a model for the rulebook
Read the required equipment section before choosing a mouthguard. If the rules specify color, attachment or other design details, match the exact wording. Where the rulebook leaves a question open, use the competition’s equipment contact rather than extrapolating from another level.
Related: football mouthguard types and fit guide, football girdle buying guide, 7v7 soft-shell headgear guide, and flag football gear guide. Visit the protective gear hub.
Sources
Common questions
Are mouthguards required in high school football?
Yes, NFHS high school football requires a tooth and mouth protector. The NFHS's 2026 rule changes also restrict attachments that do not protect the teeth or mouth and items that create a health or safety risk.
Are mouthguards required in college football?
The American Dental Association identifies NCAA football as requiring mouthguards. Check the current NCAA Football Rules Book and the team's equipment instructions for the governing details.
Does flag football require a mouthguard?
Requirements depend on the flag league or tournament. Read that program's current equipment rules because its list may differ from tackle football.
Can I use a decorated mouthguard in high school football?
The NFHS restricts attachments that do not function to protect teeth or the mouth, and items that create a health or safety risk. Follow the current rule and ask the event's equipment administrator about the specific design.