The compulsory use of a mouth guards in gaelic football matches and training sessions for all age grades, up to and including minor, is due to come into effect from January 1st.
The new rule was approved by Congress last April and received the backing of the Irish Dental Association.
"Anybody who is playing contact sports without a mouth guard is being irresponsible," said Dr Maurice Quirke of the Irish Dental Association.
"It's like going on a motorbike without a helmet. I would urge all players to protect their teeth from injury by using a gumshield immediately.
"Players are important role models for children so it is particularly important that they back the move."
IDA figures indicate Ireland has one of the highest rates of sport-related oral injuries in the EU, with one third of all dental injuries being sport-related.
In other sports such as rugby and hockey the wearing of gumshields is the norm with nearly all clubs adhering to a 'no gumshield – no game' rule.
The GAA's Medical, Scientific & Welfare Committee acknowledge that the use of a properly fitted mouth guard is the best available protective device for reducing the incidence and severity of sport-related dental injuries and was centrally involved in the ensuring the introduction of compulsory mouth guards in gaelic football.
The mandatory use of mouth guards at Under 21 and Adult level will commence from January 1st, 2014.
