Policy on Prevention of Sports-related Orofacial Injuries

Resident: Adam J. Bottrill
Date: 13NOV09
Region: Providence
Article title: Policy on Prevention of Sports-related Orofacial Injuries
Author(s): AAPD council on Clinical Affairs
Journal: Oral Health Policies Reference Manual
Page #s: p. 45
Year: 2005-2006
Major topic: Prevention of Sports-related Orofacial Injuries
Minor topic(s): Official Recommendations
Type of Article: Policy Statement




Main Purpose: Disseminate the AAPD’s Official Recommendations Regarding Sports-related Injuries.
Overview of method of research: NA

Key points in the article discussion:
A. Purpose:
1. The AAPD is concerned…. (I sure hope so)
2. Increased competitiveness has resulted in a large increase in orofacial and dental injuries.
a. represent a high percentage of the total injuries experienced in sports.

B. Background:
1. Mandatory protective equipment:
a. college football, lacrosse and ice hockey have demonstrated significant reduction of dental and facial injuries with the use of mouthguards.
2. Other sports lag behind significantly in this area.
a. baseball, basketball, soccer, field hockey, softball, wrestling, volleyball and gymnastics.
3. Leisure activities can also benefit from this type of protection.
a. skateboarding, inline or roller skating and bicycling
4. Mouth guards distribute forces of impact, reducing risk of severe orofacial injury and concussion.
a. must be fitted and worn properly.
5. 3 types
a. stock, mouth formed, custom fit (listed in reverse order of protectiveness)

C. Policy Statement:
1. Dentists play an active role in educating the public in the use of protective equipment. (prevent injuries AND reduce health care costs)
2. Continuation of preventive practices instituted by the previously mentioned sports organizations.
3. For baseball and softball, ASTM-certified face protector should be required.
4. Mandating mouthguards will help protect against orofacial injuries in many other sports.
5. Coaches and administrators of sports should consult with a dentist for recommendations for immediate management of sports-related injuries (eg, avulsed teeth).
6. Continuation of R&D for a more comfortable and efficacious mouthguard is needed to facilitate more widespread usage of the devices.
7. The International Academy of Sports Dentistry should be recognized as a valuable resource for the professions and the public.

Assessment of article: No shenanigans here. Just the straight scoop.