If you’re Involved in sports, particularly contact sports, you should know about what to look for in a good mouthguard.
Mouthguards are a simple yet indispensable device that can make a huge difference in protecting your teeth and mouth from injury during sporting activities. Many sporting associations now require athletes to wear mouthguards as part of their essential equipment.
Why are mouthguards so important?
Dental injuries in sports
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), mouthguards play a cricial role in preventing dental injuries in sports. The ADA emphasises that athletes are 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries when not wearing a mouthguard. Moreover, up to 39% of all dental injuries are related to sports, with the majority of these injuries occurring to the upper front teeth.
Protection against impact
The primary purpose of a mouthguard is to absorb the energy generated by an impact to the teeth, in turn reducing or preventing injury to the teeth and associated structures. A well-fitted mouthguard can help prevent tooth fractures, tooth dislocations, and soft tissue injuries to the cheeks, lips, and tongue. By acting as a cushion and redistributing the force of an impact, mouthguards serve as a barrier between your teeth and the impacting object.
Mandatory mouthguards in high-risk sports
In recognition of the undeniable benefits that wearing a mouthguard offers, the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) have joined forces to formulate a Mandatory Mouthguard Policy. This policy recommends that mouthguards become a compulsory piece of equipment for high-risk sports and encourages a “No Mouthguard, No Play” rule in a variety of sports, including football, rugby, lacrosse, hockey and boxing. Many Sporting Clubs and Associations have taken the proactive approach to protect their members and enforce this rule.
Mouthguards not only for high-risk sports
While mandatory in high-risk sports, there are many sports deemed as lower-contact that would also benefit from the mandatory inclusion of mouthguards i.e basketball. Highly regarded basketballers have lost or broken teeth playing the sport they love. This has encouraged fellow sports people to be more proactive in mouthguard wear on the basketball court.
In conclusion
Wearing a mouthguard is a simple yet incredibly effective way to safeguard your teeth and mouth from injury during sports. From high-risk contact sports to seemingly safer, low-impact activities, a well-fitted mouthguard can make a substantial difference in preventing dental injuries. Remember always to choose a mouthguard that fits well, is comfortable to wear and provides the protection you need. Your smile will thank you for it, and you can continue enjoying your favourite sports with added peace of mind.
The Neomorph Mouthguard was designed by a dental clinician with a keen focus on these major factors. It is also conveniently available and can be worn with or without orthodontic appliances (braces or attachments form aligners).