Analysis of factors determining athletes’ choice of the type of mouthguard

Introduction. The application of flexible occlusal splints in therapy of the stomatognatic system is recommended for short-term use only because of the risk of muscle overloading or occlusal plane disorders. Mouthguards used in prevention of head and mouth injuries are a modification of occlusal splints. They are made of flexible material with properties enabling absorption of impact energy. Due to regular use during trainings and competitions they may have an impact on the incidence of stomatognatic system ailments. Aim of the study. To assess the factors determining the choice of a mouthguard type and its influence on the stomatognatic system. Material and methods. A survey was conducted among 1279 mouthguard users to collect demographic data and information concerning mouthguards on the occurrence of problems arising from their use including pain in the area of the stomatognatic system. Statistical analysis of the results was also performed. Results. 36% athletes with standard mouthguards, 37% with “boil and bite” and 44% with custom-made ones have a tendency towards strong clenching of dental arches. Participants using a custom-made mouthguard reported chewing muscle fatigue more often than the users of the standard and “boil and bite” type, but they did not report any pain located in the area of temporomandibular joint. People experiencing fatigue and with a strong clenching of dental arches tendency significantly more often choose a type considering its retention ability, whereas pain in the temporomandibular joint area does not influence their preferences. Athletes, who declare teeth clenching, more frequently indicate the retention factor as important. Conclusion. It is necessary to conduct further research on the use of mouthguards considering their impact on the stomatognatic system.