Mouthguards

Resident’s Name: Joanne Lewis Date: November 13, 2009
Article title: Wearability and physiological effects of custom-fitted vs. self-adapted mouthguards
Author(s): Viera, D. et al
Journal: Dental Traumatology
Volume (number): 24
Month, Year: 2008
Major topic: mouthguards
Type of Article: research
Main Purpose: to measure the comfort, wearability, physiological effects and its influence on athletes’ physical performance, of custom-fitted compared with self-adapted mouthguards.
Overview of method of research: 11 rugby players, all males between 21 and 23 years of age with similar training levels, were selected to participate in the study. Each player received a “boil-and-bite” self-adapted mouthguard (MG2) and a custom fitted mouthguard (MG3). Each player made a weekly effort test randomly using either MG2, MG3, or no mouthguard for 3 consecutive weeks. The performance test was evaluated using counter-movement jumps (CMJ) and rebound jumps (RB). Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory air volume at 1 s (FEV1), peak expiratory flow rates (PEF), FEV1/FVC, and mid-expiratory flow (MEF) were recorded. The players completed a 10-point visual analog scale questionnaire concerning breathing, oral dryness, tiredness, thirst, speaking, taste, nausea, difficulty in drinking, adaptability, and comfort.
Findings: MG3 interferes less with breathing, speaking, and oral dryness, and has better adaptability, more comfort, less nausea, and is easier to drink while wearing than MG2 – these differences are statistically significant. There are no statistically significant differences in CMJ between MG2 and MG3; for RB, there are statistically significant differences between not wearing a MG and MG3 – not wearing a MG gives values from 0 to 8 cm higher. PEF rates were significantly reduced by wearing either MG.
Key points/Summary: MG3 are the favorite and have the highest level of acceptance for most of the players. MG3 is the most effective and highly recommended to prevent sports injuries. The use of MG may impact a player’s performance, and might restrict forced expiratory air flow. Dentists should be proactive in promoting the use of mouthguards.
Assessment of article: Results not surprising.