A review of mouthguards: effectiveness, types, characteristics and indications for use

Abstract

Participation in sport carries an increased risk of sustaining dental trauma which can be reduced by the use of a mouthguard. Mouthguards work by dissipating the force of impact, thus reducing the force which is transferred to the dentition. There are different types of mouthguard available which vary in design, costs and the level of protection provided. This article aims to review the use of mouthguards in sport, the common barriers to their use and also the different types of mouthguards and their characteristics.