Do Mouthguards Prevent Concussions? What the Research Says
For an athlete, getting hit, falling down, or running into another player is inevitable. Though protective equipment can help prevent many injuries, there is an ongoing debate about the protective abilities of a sports mouthguard. Many people do not know exactly what a sports mouthguard does to protect against concussions.
In this blog, we will discuss what sports mouthguards are used for, whether or not they can prevent concussions, what makes a good mouthguard, and what you can do to ensure the safety of your game and teeth.
📑 Table of Contents
What Sports Mouthguards Are Designed to Protect Against
Mouth guards, otherwise referred to as sports mouthguards, are oral appliances used to protect the mouth from physical injuries. They are mostly used by players engaging in contact and collision sports. These oral appliances create a cushion between the upper and lower sets of teeth, minimizing the effects of impacts, falls, and collisions.
Additionally, sports mouthguards are typically divided into three types: stock (ready-made), boil-and-bite, and custom-fit.
The American Dental Association (ADA) has stated that a good way for athletes to prevent dental injuries is to wear mouthguards that fit properly while playing any sport involving high impact.
Want to know which sports require a mouthguard? Read this next: 8 Sports You Should Never Play Without a Mouthguard
Do Mouthguards Prevent Concussion? What the Research Says
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a concussion, sometimes called traumatic brain injury (TBI), may happen after a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move quickly within the skull. For example, a sudden impact during a game can lead to a concussion.
Scientific research provides mixed results as to whether mouthguards can prevent concussions. Though there have been sports medicine studies, involving young hockey players, suggesting a possible link between wearing mouthguards and prevention of concussions, there is not yet enough scientific evidence that proves the effectiveness of mouthguards in preventing the injury.
Why Athletes Should Still Wear a Mouthguard
Although current research does not prove that mouthguards can prevent concussions, they remain an important piece of protective sports equipment. The American Dental Association (ADA), together with other dental groups including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Academy for Sports Dentistry, acknowledges that mouthguards are an essential element of sports protective gear.
Because sports injuries may not be limited to concussions alone, using a sports mouthguard will not only lower the chances of having dental injuries like cracks, chips, or fractures but will also aid in absorbing any impacts from colliding into another player.
Beyond injury protection, some studies suggest that a properly fitted mouthguard may also support athlete confidence and performance through factors such as jaw positioning and muscle activation.
Are goalkeepers also at risk of these types of dental injuries? Read this article next: Do Goalkeepers Really Need a Mouth Guard?
How to Choose the Right Mouthguard for Better Protection
Given the critical function of the mouthguard in ensuring the protection of your teeth, it is necessary for you to spend time choosing a mouthguard that is a good fit for you as well as your particular sport. Below are some of the criteria of a good sports mouthguard according to the ADA Council of Scientific Affairs and the Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention.
Proper Fit
A good mouth guard is supposed to fit your teeth comfortably with no signs of looseness, and it must not need constant adjustments in order to work well.
Secure and Comfortable
The right type of mouthguard should fit your mouth, ensuring it stays in place while you breathe, talk, and move around. When athletes are comfortable using them, they can be motivated to use them consistently.
Impact-Absorbing Material
Your mouthguard should be made of high-quality material to be able to absorb and dissipate impact force. The quality of the mouthguard helps protect your teeth from injuries.
Easy to Clean
The right mouthguard should be easy to clean and maintain after using. Proper maintenance guarantees its hygiene and increases the mouthguard lifespan.
Balanced Cost and Quality
Expensive mouthguard does not mean the perfect mouthguard, nor does the cheap mouthguard guarantee the desired fit and durability. Look for one that balances protection, comfort, and value.
Not sure which mouthguard is right for you? Check out our comprehensive guide: ClearClub Mouthguards: The Complete Guide to Types, Costs & Choosing the Right One
Protect Your Teeth, Play With Confidence
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Although mouthguards cannot completely prevent the chance of getting concussions, they still contribute towards sports safety by protecting you from dental problems. The selection of an appropriately fitted mouthguard will help you be more safe and concentrated during the activity you love.
ClearClub's Sports Mouthguard provides athletes the confidence to engage in their sporting activity by offering them a comfortable and custom-fitted protection for their teeth. It comes in different colors to fit everyone’s taste and can be easily replaced with the help of our subscription plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Do mouthguards prevent concussions?
There is no clear evidence that mouthguards prevent concussions. However, some research suggests they may help reduce the risk in certain situations. Their primary purpose is to protect your teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from sports-related injuries.
❓ What does a sports mouthguard protect against?
Sports mouthguards are commonly used in contact and collision sports to protect the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth from injuries caused by impacts, falls, and collisions. They can also help absorb some of the force transmitted to the jaw during contact.
❓ What type of mouthguard is best for athletes?
Custom-fitted mouthguards generally provide the best fit, comfort, and protection. However, the best choice for an athlete also depends on the sport they play, their personal preferences, and their budget.
Looking for something else? Check our full FAQ section.