• The Journal of the Korean dental association
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• v.56 no.6
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• pp.324-332
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• 2018

A mouthguard is a protective device normally worn on the upper jaw, to reduce injures to the teeth, jaws and surrounding soft tissues. It has a definite role in preventing injuries to the teeth and face and for this reason it is strongly recommended for all sporting activities where there is a risk of trauma to the teeth and associated structures. Mouthguards can be effective in reducing impact force to the teeth, and attributed to enhancement of postural control and muscle performance during teeth clenching. Although there is evidence that mouthguards reducing impact force to the teeth, and prevent orofacial trauma occurrence during sport practice, the influence of this device on athletic performance has not been systematically quantified. Nevertheless, wearing a dentally fitted laminated mouthguard of at least 3 mm thickness can be strongly recommended during sport practice.