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In most sports, mobility of the body's center of mass is as important as muscle strength and posture maintenance. Many dynamic studies have revealed a positive relationship between teeth clenching with a mouthguard (CLMG) and athletic ability. However, the effects of CLMG on mobility remain controversial. Vertical jumping, particularly squat jumping (SJ), can be used to evaluate this ability. During SJ, arm swing and reactionary operation of lower limbs are limited. Therefore, the effects of CLMG can be readily investigated. In the present study, we measured SJ height, biomechanics data and masseter muscle activity under two oral conditions: CLMG, and no mouthguard with no instructions on clenching. The aim of the present study was to clarify whether CLMG improves SJ performance. A total of 10 adult female athletes with an average age of 20.8±1.2 years participated in this study. The study protocol was approved by the Tokyo Dental College Ethics Committee (approval No. 437). The study adhered to the tenets of the Helsinki Declaration on the Ethical Treatment of Human Subjects. A customized EVA MG was used for each subject. Measuring devices included the 3-dimensional motion capture system, ground reaction force meters, and electromyograms. The results indicated that CLMG improved SJ height by enhancing work, work rate of hip joints, steadiness of body balance function during jump preparation, and masseter muscle activity. Within the limitations of this study, the results indicated that CLMG tended to improve SJ performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Recently, mouthguards (MGs) have gained widespread use during participation in sporting activities. However, few reports have focused on the disadvantages of MGs, which are n ot well recognized even among sports dentists. In particular, accidental ingestion of MGs may cause upper airway obstruction, resulting in a life-threatening event for the wearer; hence, the objective of this study was to examine the risks associated with MG use. Materials and methods: First, we reviewed the literature describing upper airway obstruction caused by the accidental ingestion of MGs during participation in sporting activities. Next, we performed an experiment to clarify the relationship between accidental in gestion and the shapes and types of MGs, and conducted surveys of cases of accidental ingestion during participation in sports. Finally, we administered questionnaires to sports dentists to obtain the correct fit/position of MGs. Results: The literature on accidentaling estion and upper airway obstruction during participation in sporting activities was identified. The results of the experiment showed that custom-made MGs were less likely to be accidentally ingested than stock-type or small modified MGs. Moreover, oral injury data revealed that MGs were frequently dislodged because of unexpected contact. Discussion: Considering that accidental ingestion of MGs does occur, it is important to understand the risks associated with MG use during participation in sporting activities. To minimize the risk of accidental ingestion, well-fitte d and appropriately sized MGs that help prevent dislodgement are necessary. Therefore, the involvement of sports dentists is ideal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review examines the English and Japanese literature investigating the efficacy of mouthguard use for preventing or reducing traumatic oral injuries or concussion from 1986 to 2016, using PubMed and manual searching. After careful reading and evaluation of 17 articles, we concluded that properly fitte d custom-made mouthguards can prevent or reduce traumatic oral injuries. Larger cohort studies are required to clarify the efficacy of mouthguards in reducing the severity of concussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose : The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of physical and oral injuries and mouthguard usage and awareness among Nepalese martial arts athletes. Materials and Methods : The total study population consisted of 103 (80 males, 23 females) Taekwondo and 40 (31 males, 9 females) Shotokan karate players. Data were collected by a standardized questionnaire about history of injuries along with the level of usage and awareness of mouthguards and statistically analyzed with the Chi-square test and Fisher's exact probability test (p<0.05). Results : Overall, 64.1% of Taekwondo players and 55.0% of Shotokan Karate players suffered from physical injuries. In particular, 25.2% of Taekwondo and 37.5% of Shotokan Karate players reported oral injuries. In Taekwondo, oral injuries were mainly laceration of oral soft tissues (47.2%), subluxation of tooth (11.1%), jaw contusion and fractured tooth (8.3%), concussion and avulsion (5.6%) and jaw dislocation and lateral luxation (2.8%). In karate, the types of injury were soft tissue lacerations (76.2%), dislocation of the jaws (9.5%), jaw fracture, tooth fracture and subluxation (4.8%). The incidence of oral soft tissue injury was significantly higher in karate players than in taekwondo players (p<0.01). Although 75.0% of karate and 14.5% of taekwondo players used a mouthguard, none of the players were familiar with custom made mouthguards. Conclusion : The high frequency of oral injuries suggests that it is necessary to provide sports safety education as well as encourage the utilization of mouthguards as a preventive measure to avoid serious dental trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the difference in mouthguard thickness according to the time of vacuum application in the vacuum-forming method. An ethylene vinyl acetate mouthguard sheet of 3.8-mm thickness was used in this study. The sheets were vacuum-formed when heating causing them to displace 15 mm from baseline using a vacuum-pressure former. The conditions at 5 durations of vacuum application were examined: vacuum was applied for 5, 30, 60, 90, and 120 sec. We measured mouthguard thickness at the labial surface of the central incisor, the buccal surface of the first molar, and the occlusal surface of the first molar. Differences in thickness in different regions of mouthguards and the time of vacuum application were analyzed by twoway analysis of variance and the Bonferroni method. We found that mouthguard thickness differed in different regions of the central incisors and the first molars (P < 0.01). The incisal (cusp) region was thinner than the cervical region. Mouthguard thickness at the labial surface of the central incisor, buccal surface of the first molar and occlusal surface of the first molar differed according to the time of vacuum application, with the vacuum application time of 120 sec. producing thinner mouthguards (P < 0.05). Our results suggest that mouthguard thickness differ according to the time of vacuum application. The clinician should limit the time of vacuum application to about 90 sec. when fabricating a vacuum-formed mouthguard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A laminated mouthguard is made by fusing sheets of mouthguard materials together. Adequate adhesive strength is required to use mouthguards in stable condition for a long time. To date, adhesive strengths have been investigated on a flat surface. However, an actual mouthguard is made on a player's model with different inclination. Therefore, in this study, the exfoliation test was applied to determine the adhesive strength during thermoforming using a special simulation model with three different flat surfaces of 0 degree, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees against a pressurizing force. Air pressure type samples were made by EVA blank. Samples were laminated with two pieces of mouthguard material and cut out with an adhesive area of 5 × 5 mm2, the other end was the holding part. Three different heating times of 100, 115 and 130 s were employed. The delamination test was carried out by employing Autograph. Original jigs with screws were used to grip the specimen firmly. Adhesive strength was measured at the center of the 0-degree and 45-degree surfaces, and upper and lower positions on 90-degree surface. The result was measured at the time of breakage of the maximum load, and the form of destruction was examined. At a heating time of 100 seconds, all four surfaces showed interface failures. The 0-degree surface showed the largest failure load, and the greater inclination and lower measuring position of a 90-degree surface reduced the adhesive strength significantly. At a heating time of 115 seconds, the 0-degree surface showed material failures. The other three surfaces showed interface failures and the greater inclination and lower measuring position of a 90-degree surface reduced the adhesive strength significantly. At a heating time of 130 seconds, all four surfaces showed material failures; these failures do not represent adhesive strength, but material thickness after thermoforming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was 1) to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties, adaptation and water uptake of a silicone-based material for sports mouthguards vulcanized using a microwave oven, and 2) to compare these microwave-vulcanized mouthguards with room temperature vulcanized material. Furthermore, we describe a step-by-step procedure for making these mouthguards in a clinical setting. A disadvantage of silicone materials is their slow vulcanization. The use of a microwave oven for the rapid vulcanization of silicone-based material in the construction of sports mouthguards can reduce fabrication time by 1 to 3 hours. Flowever, the physical properties, adaptation, and water uptake of silicone materials after vulcanization by microwave irradiation have yet to be studied. A fiber reinforcement plastic (FRP) flask was used for the microwave oven irradiation. Specimens for testing the physical properties of the vulcanized silicone were made according to the JIS K6253 standard for Durometer A hardness. The tear strength specimen was made as prescribed by the JIS K6252 standards. The shock absorbing test and hardness test used specimens of the same size. The physical property tests showed that microwave oven vulcanized silicone exhibited significantly greater hardness and tear strength than room temperature vulcanized silicone, whereas the adaptability and water uptake of silicone materials prepared by room temperature and microwave oven vulcanization were not significantly different. We also provide step-by-step procedures for the fabrication of silicone-based mouthguards in clinics. Microwave oven vulcanization can decrease the time required for fabrication, although more clinically based studies are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, wearing a mouthguard (MG) has become mandatory in contact sports. A properly fitted MG protects against sports injuries to the stomatognathic system, and stabilized the occlusal position, which might leads to improved sports performance. The present study uses a questionnaire to determine the amount of dental knowledge and motivation to wear a MG among dental college students. The current situation regarding MG use, discomfort, and experience of oral trauma and concussion was evaluated in 175 rugby football players, 63 American football players, 62 skiers, 55 karate, 27 Shorinji kempo and 32 Nippon kempo athletes who participate d in the Annual Athletic Meet for All Japanese Dental Students (414 participants). The results of the questionnaire about MG use indicated that almost all players experienced discomfort. Dental trauma was experienced in 90% and 43% of rugby football payers and karate athletes, respectively. The rates were lowest among American football players, Shorinji kempo athletes and skiers, being 5.8%, 7.4%, 12.9%, respectively. Concussion was experienced by > 36% of rugby football players and 25% of Nippon kempo athletes. Nippon kempo athletes may use a MG to protect against concussion. In conclusion, rules requiring players to wear a MG should be enforced or rules should be changed to make wearing a MG compulsory, awareness of dental students should be improved, injury should be prevented by wearing a MG and not only organizations but individual players should be educated about the necessity of wearing a MG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is the sensation of discomfort or pain in the muscles that occurs follow in g unaccustomed muscular exertion. This study investigated the effects of Aquatitan tape (AT tape) on DOMS of the masseter and skeletal muscles after weight-training while wearing a custom-made mouthguard. In this study, 52 right-handed participants applied AT tape on the places they felt pain or fatigue after weight-training, including the masseter, forearm, biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and triceps surae muscles. Their muscle pain and discomfort associated with various actions, and the usability of AT tape, were then evaluated. Of the participants, about 50% put AT tape on the masseter, biceps brachii, and triceps brachii muscles. When AT tape was put on the left, non-dominant side, the muscle pain was significantly smaller than when the tape was placed on the right side. About 40% of the participants answered that AT tape improved their symptoms, and about 60% answered that they wanted to use AT tape again. Our findings suggest that AT tape has the potential to reduce muscle pain on the non-dominant side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a case of root fracture in the maxillary central incisor of a rugby player incurred during touch football training. The tooth was treated with a flexible fixed splint, a removable resin splint (made from pre-laminated soft and hard layers of material) and a high shock absorption Hard & Space mouthguard. We believe that fixation with a flexible fixed splint and a removable resin splint allowed the patient to maintain a normal diet, which may have contributed to his being able to maintain body weight and return to competition earlier than might otherwise have been possible. At approximately 12 months into the rugby season, the player had sustained no further injury in the affected area and experienced no pain or discomfort. This indicates that the Hard & Space mouthguard is also effective in preventing injury. Furthermore, keeping the plaster model which had been used to fabricate a mouthguard for the player allows the dentist to respond promptly to further injuries, something considered important by team doctors. The present results also show the need for not only players, but also trainers and coaches to be aware of the importance of regular use of a mouthguard in all types and levels of sport. This is particularly pertinent right now, as touch football is to be included in the physical education curriculum at both the elementary and junior high school levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a circle tray on the thickness of a mouthguard after vacuum forming. The material used in this study was Sports Mouthguard (127x127x3.8 mm). Two forming conditions were used. In the first condition, the square mouthguard sheet was formed, and in the other condition, a circle sheet with 120 mm diameter prepared by cutting the square sheet was adapted between two circle trays (127x127 mm with a circular deficit of 100 mm diameter). The sheets were formed using a vacuum former with a square sheet holder when the heated sheets hung 15 mm below the baseline. We measured the thickness of the mouthguard at the buccal surface of the central incisor and first molar, and at the occlusal surface of the first molar. The differences of the thickness from the two forming conditions were analyzed using Student's t-test. The results showed that the thicknesses of the mouthguard at the labial surface of the central incisor, buccal surface of the first molar, and occlusal surface of the first molar were significantly (P<0.01) smaller when the circle tray was used. The results of this study suggested that using a circle tray under the same conditions as the original forming method would not be recommended from the view point of maintaining the thickness, and finding a standard for using the circle tray would be necessary. These results may be useful in fabricating proper mouthguards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposes of this study were to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of seven experimental mouthguard materials and to compare them with two commercially available mouthguard materials. The selected experimental materials were six silicone-based materials and one styrene-ethylene and styrene-butadiene block co-polymer material (SEB). The commercially available custom-made sports mouthguard materials were ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA: Capture Sheet®) and polyolefin (MG21®). These nine materials were also measured for shock absorption characteristics. Each material was made into slabs (15 cm x 15 cm x 2.0 mm thick) by the manufacturers, and seven specimens were made according to JIS K6251 specifications for tensile strength, elongation, and tensile stress. JIS K6252 for tear strength and JIS K6253 for Durometer A hardness were also referenced. The most effective energy absorption was seen in the SEB experimental material. Compared with the two commercial materials, SEB also had significantly increased tear strength. In terms of physical characteristics, the six silicone-based materials tended to have fewer than the two commercial materials. One of the experimental formulations in the six silicone group materials, 3U, showed significantly increased energy absorption properties, and it was considered to have potential for further development. SEB showed superior physical and mechanical properties in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to investigate physical injuries along with oral injuries and their prevention among the cricketers and hockey players of Bangladesh. The study population consisted of 108 cricketers (91 males and 17 females) and 105 male hockey players. Data were collected by means of questionnaires about injury history, use of a mouthguard and the attitude toward using it, and intraoral examinations. In cricket, the most frequent oral injuries were soft tissue lacerations (42.43%), concussions (21.21%) and cracked teeth (18.18%), and the major cause was being hit by the ball (59.26%). No player reported using a mouthguard. In hockey, the most common oral injuries were soft tissue lacerations (57.89%) and cracked teeth (19.73%) mostly due to being hit by the ball 43.42%. Most hockey players (83%) reported using a ready-made mouthguard. When comparing the two groups of players, the incidence of oral injuries was significantly higher in the hockey players than in the cricket players (P=0.0000068). There was no significant difference in physical injuries between hockey players and cricket players. In intra oral examinations, most of the cricketers and hockey players had class I occlusion with a CPI of score 0 or 1. The incidences of physical injuries and traumatic oral injuries are high in Bangladeshi cricket and hockey players. Hockey players had more injuries than cricketers even after wearing a ready-made mouthguard. Thus, a custom-made mouthguard is necessary along with safety education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to describe the strategy for establishing scientific evidence for the efficacy of mouthguard in preventing or reducing traumatic injuries during sports activities base on the large scale epidemiological study among Japanese Academy of Sports Dentistry (JASD) members. Using this protocol, several reports have already made indicating the efficacy of mouthguards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mouthguards (MG) are used mainly to prevent and reduce sporting injuries, but are also used in resistance training. We measured the greatest and total work loads during trunk extension/flexion exercise with and without MG using a multi-purpose muscle function evaluation system in 9 healthy dentulous subjects. Simultaneously, the electromyographic activity patterns and maximum voluntary activities of the temporal, masseter, and digastric muscles were measured. From obtained muscle activities, the relative percentage (%) of the activity of each masticatory muscle to its maximum voluntary activity was calculated, and masticatory muscle activities during trunk extension/flexion exercise were compared between with and without the use of MG. Based on physical performance and electromyographic masticatory muscle activity patterns during exertion of trunk muscles, no improvement in physical performance was observed using MG. However, the use of MG was useful for reducing the activities of the masticatory muscles, particularly the digastric muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of reheating after the vacuum forming process on deformation in each part of the mouthguard after immersion in water. The mouthguard sheets were pressed on the working model for 2 minutes, and then subjected to four conditions: rapid cooling, slow cooling, reheating for 5 minutes, and reheating for 10 minutes. Then, the mouthguard was trimmed along the shape of the bottom of the working model and immersed in water. Deformation of the mouthguard was determined by measuring the distances between the buccal and palatal borders of the mouthguard and between the buccal and palatal cervical margins at the central incisor, second premolar, and second molar. The distances were measured before immersion, and on days 1-7 after immersion. The differences in the ratio of changes in the distances on the mouthguard after immersion in water were analyzed by Friedman test. The distances at the border of the mouthguard were significantly different at the central incisor, second premolar, and second molar in the four conditions (p<0.01 or p<0.05). The change in the distance at the second premolar was largest, and rapid cooling and slow cooling resulted in greater deformation in an inward direction. There were no significant differences in the distances at the cervical margins of the mouthguard. The residual stress occurring in the forming process was reduced by reheating the mouthguard for 5 minutes and 10 minutes, and deformation of the mouthguard after immersion in water was small, especially at the second premolar. Results of this study suggested that the method of reheating the mouthguard after forming would be effective to fabricate a well-fitting mouthguard that is comfortable to wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a mouthguard on root distortion resulting from an impact force applied by means of a pendulum-type impact testing machine equipped with an accelerometer to a tooth model with strain gauges attached. A two-layer type EVA mouthguard (MG) was employed. Peak impact acceleration with an MG (33.2 g) was significantly smaller than that without a mouthguard (NOMG) (78.8 g). The shock absorption ability of the MG was 57.9%. A paired t-test was used to compare the peak impact distortion at five different measurement points and shock absorption of the MG at total distortion (sum of distortion values at all five points). Distortion at each measurement p o in t was significantly smaller with an MG than with NOMG. Total root distortion with an MG (8319.4 με) was significantly smaller than that with NOMG (3555.8 με). The shock absorption ability of the MG at total distortion was 56.0%. With in the limitations of this study, the results showed that an MG significantly reduced peak impact acceleration (to approximately 58%) and root distortion at each measurement point and total distortion (to approximately 56%). These results indicate that a mouthguard has the potential to prevent root injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, wearing a mouth guard (MG) has become necessary in contact sports. Proper wearing of MG ensures protection from sports injuries of the stomatagnathic system, and stability of the occlusal position also leads to improvement in sports performance. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare, by means of a questionnaire, the dental knowledge and motivation to wear MG among college students and club team players. The prevalence of dental caries, the presence of wisdom teeth, periodontal health condition, and temporomandibular joint disorders were determined in about 37 players of the Japan Rugby Football Top League and 53 players in the Kanto Region University Rugby Football League. In addition, the current situation of the present MG, any modification of the MG design required, any discomfort, and the frequency of repair were evaluated. All the MGs in both groups were custom-made and MG experience ranged from 1 to 5 years. The dental examination revealed a difference between the students and club team players, and the ratio of presence of wisdom teeth and caries was slightly high among the students. The results of the questionnaire on MG indicated that although discomfort was experienced by both students and club team players, perceived discomfort during MG use was influenced by the player's position. Compared with the college students, the club team players tended to have better dental awareness. In conclusion, a better understanding of MG and dental condition is important for players. Players should be informed of the results of dental examinations and questionnaires before the rugby playing season, which might help them maintain their oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine the influence of the accuracy of fit on mouthguard retention in relation to mouthguard outline location. Materials and Methods: Mouthguards were fabricated on a fully dentate maxillary cast with 4-mm-thick ethylene vinyl acetate sheets using a welldried cast (VD) and on a wet cast (VW) with a vacuum-forming machine. Mouthguards were also made with a pressure-forming machine (P). The mouthguard outline was set at 4 mm from the cervical margin (control, C), the palatal outline was set at the cervical margin (Pa), and the buccal outline was extended to the buccal fold (Bu). A dislodging force perpendicular to the occlusal plane was applied at the first molar on the universal testing machine. Results were analyzed using ANOVA with Scheffe's test (P < .05). Results: Using the VW, the retentive forces were statistically smaller at Pa compared to C or Bu (C: 58 ± 17 gf, Pa: 36 ± 7 gf, Bu: 50 ± 8 gf) (P < .05). There were no statistical differences between VD (C: 116 ± 27 gf, Pa: 86 ± 15 gf, Bu: 92 ± 7 gf and group P (C: 133 ± 31 gf, Pa: 139 ± 24 gf, Bu: 136 ± 17 gf). Conclusions: The results indicate that mouthguard retention is closely related to the accuracy of fit at the cervical undercut area rather than the outline location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposes of this study were to compare the shock absorption characteristics of commercially available custom-made sports mouthguard materials and to evaluate the ratio of attenuation of impact force for developing a new functional experimental mouthguard material. Nine 2.0-mm-thick mouthguard materials and eight 4.0-mm-thick materials were used. Seven specimens were made from the nine 2.0-mm-thick mouthguard materials (3.0cm x 3.0cm x 2.0-mm-thick) and the eight 4.0-mm-thick mouthguard materials (3 .0cm x 3.0mm x 4.0-mmthick). A steel ball-drop test apparatus, consisting of an impact device, three load cells, a connecting box, a voltage box for the magnetic system, and a memory recorder and analyzer, was used. The information obtained from the force transducer was used to determine the highest recorded force value observed for each material and sheet thickness. The 2.0-mm thick experimental material (styrene-ethylene and styrene-butadiene block copolymer) and 4.0-mm-thick Impactguard® (polyolefin-polystyrene block copolymer) showed the most effective energy absorption {p≤0.05; ANOVA, Tukey's). Although there are many custom-made mouthguard materials on the market, there are currently no standards for selecting the best materials for use. The present results suggest that materials with a thickness greater than 4.0 mm and a ratio of attenuation of impact force greater than 85% are optimal. New experimental materials for mouthguards that meet these criteria should be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the increased popularity of various sports and number of participants has led to a rise in sports-related injuries. Approximately 10 - 20% of sports injuries occur in the stomatognathic system. Wearing a mouthguard is considered important to prevent sports injuries and those who take part in contact sports are obliged to wear a mouthguard. However, for non-contact sports, a mouthguard is not always used and its importance is not fully understood. Especially in baseball, where talking is necessary, players are reluctant to use a mouthguard, because they find it difficult to speak and uncomfortable. We investigated the reasons for use, functionality (including speaking), and deficiencies of mouthguards fabricated to prevent injuries in baseball. The investigation was approved by the Japan High School Baseball Federation. The study population included 92 players selected for the Nationwide High School Baseball Championship in 2004 (the 86th) and the 2008 (the 90th). After taking impressions, mouthguards were created using Justouch (Kuraray Medical) and MG21 (CGK Co.). A questionnaire was completed and an interview was conducted to investigate the reasons for use, functionality (including speaking), and deficiencies of the mouthguard. Of the 92 players, 80.4% had no opportunity to wear a mouthguard. The deficiencies included difficulty in speaking (25.3%). a sense of discomfort (17.8%), nausea (12.1 %), breathing difficulty (11.5%). and increased secretion of saliva (10.3%). On the other hand, 75% of the players had a positive experience using the mouthguard. The present study showed that the players were highly interested in wearing mouthguards and considered it to be necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of custom-made mouthguards on sports performance. The evaluation using 12 sports performance tests in male members of senior high school wrestling clubs yielded the following results. Use of mouthguards by senior high school wrestling club members resulted in no reduction in overall sports performance; varying effects on sports performance depending on the type of sport; improvement in flexibility, agility and 50 m run capability; increase in muscle strength in 24.4% of all students, associated with improved capability for 50 m run; and no increase in muscle strength in 76.4% of the students, although this group showed improvement in flexibility, agility and 50 m run capability (muscle strength decreased in a proportion of these students). Analysis over time indicated that mouthguard use produced no statistically significant improvement in basic physical strength 4 months after the start of mouthguard use and no significant reduction in any indicator of sports performance associated with mouthguard use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern mouthguards should be designed taking into account, dental injury patterns in sport, the mechanism of dental injuries, the properties of mouthguard materials and current mouthguard fabrication techniques. Inadequate mouthguard protection can result in dental injuries that should have been prevented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orofacial injuries are prevalent in contact and non-contact sports. Considering that 13-39% of all dental injuries are sports related, the need for effective methods of orofacial protection is crucial. Researchers have proposed that the mouthguard could act as a protective device that can potentially reduce the extent and severity of orofacial injuries. Hence, the effectiveness of mouthguards in reducing sports related orofacial injuries is an area of research that deserves further inquiry. An evidence-based review was performed to determine if mouthguards are effective in reducing sport related orofacial injuries. A Scopus pilot test, an Ovid systematic search, expert opinions, and a review of reference lists resulted in the compilation of 15 studies intended for critical appraisal. A checklist was utilized to systematically assess the evidence of efficacy of prevention, after which 6 studies met the strict criteria. Results demonstrated that mouthguards significantly decrease the incidence of dental trauma. Inconclusive evidence was found regarding the ability of mouthguards to reduce soft tissue injury and concussion. Overall, there is fair evidence to suggest the mandatory use of mouthguards in sports related activities. Further research is warranted to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Special Olympics is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition. The 2005 Special Olympics World Winter Games was held in Nagano Prefecture in the Hokushin region for 8 days between February 26 and March 5. This Special Olympics was the first held in Asia. In addition to sports and games, the Healthy Athlete Program was established to promote the health of athletes with intellectual disabilities. The Healthy Athlete Program provides health services in 6 specialties: eyes, ears, feet, physical ability, nutrition/lifestyle, and the dental health check/provision of using mouthguards. The Special Smiles deals with this dental health check/provision of using mouthguards. In this Olympics, about 2600 athletes from 80 countries throughout the world participated 7 disciplines and 79 events. In this Olympics, under the instructions of the Japanese Association of Sport Dentistry, custommade vacuum-type mouthguards were provided to all athletes participating in floor hockey. It was necessary to produce standardized type mouthguards for all athletes in only 1 hour. Training was given before the Olympics to volunteers such as dentists and dental technicians to produce the mouthguards in this limited time span. More than 500 custom-made type mouthguards were produced and provided not only to floor hockey athletes but also to athletes in other events when requested. These mouthguards fit into their oral cavities and were very favorably accepted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The KASD was established on July 4th, 2003, with professor Dae-Gyun Choi as the head of the association, and with the participation of 104 clinicians who are interested in this subject. Currently (July, 2008) there are about 240 active members. The objectives of the KASD are to prevent sports injuries occurring during institutional or social physical exercise and to enhance the performance of professional athletes. KASD is still in its infancy with the need to improve academically, financially and in human resources. To overcome these challenges, we are anticipating the improvement of academic skills and knowledge of sports dentistry by inviting internationally renowned speakers to regular conferences, and increase financial revenue by holding hands-on mouthguard fabrication courses. At the same time, we are expecting to recruit more members to join this association through continuing education and promotion of sports dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topic of sports dentistry has become an area of growing interest in the United States for both dentists and athletes who seek protection from orofacial injuries during recreational and competitive activities. Research indicates that many sports that do not require mouthguards should encourage the use of orofacial protectors for male and female participants. Sports such basketball, soccer, wrestling or any sport where the potential for dental trauma can occur, should consider the use mouthguards for the protection of the competitors. The American Dental Association described team dentists having three primary responsibilities that include performing preseason oral examinations, fabricating mouthguards for team members, and providing emergency dental care when necessary. Whether an athlete is grammar or high school age, collegiate, or professional, dental care must be available before, during, and after the competitive season. In addition to orofacial protection, sports dentistry is concerned with emergency treatment at the site of athletic competition and establishing mouthguard programs for athletes of all ages, gender, and sports. The Academy for Sports Dentistry, a national organization promoting mouthguard usage, is concerned with mouthguard testing and standards, legal considerations for team dentists, research, encouraging more dental professionals to become involved in mouthguard programs. More statistical research is needed in the area of sports dentistry in the United States. A national reporting system for sports related orofacial injuries would provide more accurate data in determining which sports should require mouthguard protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this investigation was to determine the thickness of different types of custom-made mouthguards after processing and the deformational changes after simulated occlusal loading. Materials and methods: Ten mouthguards were fabricated for the same dental arch using the following materials and processing techniques: Group I: vacuum-formed (4 mm), Colored Mouthguard; Group II: vacuum-formed (4 mm), Proform; and Group III: pressure-laminated (3 + 3 mm), Drufosoft. After processing, the thickness was measured in three places: lingual cusps of the first molar, distal marginal ridge of the first premolar; and facial of central incisor. The stiffness of each group was determined by applying a simulated clenching force to the first molar lingual cusp areas on an Instron test machine with a blunt probe. The corresponding penetration was measured with a dial gauge. Thickness and force-deflection measurements of the different mouthguard groups were compared using analysis of variance and post hoc tests. Results: The mean thicknesses at the molar for Groups I and II were 1.55 and 1.52 mm, respectively, and were significantly smaller then the corresponding thickness for Group III (3.48 mm). The mean thicknesses at the facial of the incisors for Groups I and II were similar (2.05 and 2.06 mm, respectively), and were significantly smaller than the corresponding thickness for Group III (3.29 mm). Groups I and II demonstrated similar stiffness that was significantly higher than that for Group III. Conclusion: These results show that vacuum-formed mouthguards produced smaller thicknesses than the pressure-laminated mouthguards. The pressure-laminated mouthguards produced material thicknesses that were previously shown to be adequate to protect athletes from trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to assess the effects of aging on the dimensional stability of vacuum-formed, pressure-formed, and pressure-laminated custom-made mouthguards. Method and materials: A master model representing the dental arch was fabricated in acrylic resin. Two ethylene vinyl acetate thermoplastic materials were tested: Essix (regular) and Proform (prelaminated). The model was benchmarked in five places along the curvature of the arch. The model was used to fabricate 10 specimens for each of the following groups: 1 = vacuum-formed (3-mm) Essix; 2 = vacuum-formed (4-mm) Proform; 3 = pressure-formed (3-mm) Essix; 4 = pressure-formed (4-mm) Proform; 5 = pressure-laminated (3-mm + 2-mm) Essix; 6 = pressure-laminated (3-mm + 3-mm) Essix. Die stone was poured into the newly made specimens and measured. Aging of the specimens was simulated by reproducing cleaning cycles (48 hours' soaking in water at 60°F and brushing 100 times with a soft denture brush in soapy water at 140°F for 20 minutes). Die stone was poured into the aged specimens and measured. Initial and post-aging measurements were compared. Results: All specimens showed dimensional changes post-aging, mainly decreases. Pressure-laminated specimens showed the best dimensional stability. Conclusion: Aging induced various dimensional changes in mouthguards, depending on the materials and processing techniques used. Most of the dimensional change for all mouthguards occurred at the central incisor region, the most important area for the protection of the anterior teeth and the premaxilla. Pressure-laminated mouthguard specimens showed the smallest range of changes at the central incisor region, suggesting potentially improved fit, comfort, and protection. (Quintessence Int 2002;33:700-705) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]