Players of the National Hockey League (NHL) wear mouth guards as an important protective factor, which protects their teeth, jaws, and overall oral health during ice hockey, a physical fitness condition. The importance of mouth guards in professional hockey cannot be overstated, as they play an important role in preventing serious dental injuries and potentially reducing the risk of collisions.
The Need for Mouth Guards in Hockey
Ice hockey is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport. Players swing at high speeds, handle hard pucks, and engage frequently with the body, which puts them at greater risk of dental and facial injuries. In fact, studies have shown that hockey players who don't wear mouthguards have a 1.6 to 1.9 times greater risk of tooth damage compared to those who do.
Preventing Dental Injuries
The primary function of the mouth guard is to protect the teeth from direct impacts. Hockey pucks can travel at speeds over 100 mph, and sticks, elbows, and other equipment can easily cause dental injuries. Mouth guards act as a barrier, absorbing and distributing impact forces to reduce the risk of broken, chipped, or chipped teeth.
Jaw Protection
Apart from protecting the teeth, guards also play an important role in protecting the jaw. By reducing impacts and stabilizing the jaw, they help prevent jaw fractures and reduce the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injuries.
Soft Tissue Protection
Mouth guards also protect the soft tissues of the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, and tongue, from damage caused by the teeth during impact. This protection is important in a sport where high speed collisions are common.
Role in Conflict Prevention
Although the primary purpose of mouth guards is to protect the teeth, research is ongoing into their potential role in reducing the risk of collisions. Some research shows that properly fitted mouth guards can help absorb shock, stabilize the head and neck, and reduce movement caused by direct blows to the jaw. However, it is important to note that the scientific community has not yet reached a consensus on this issue, and more research is needed to establish a direct link between the use of mouth guards and collision prevention.
Mouthguards Used in the NHL
NHL players have many options when it comes to mouth guards, each with their own benefits and considerations:
Stock MouthGuards
These are pre-made and ready to wear. Although it is a less expensive option, it usually provides less protection and comfort due to its more general fit.
Mouthguards boil and bite
These mouthguards are made of thermoplastic material that softens when boiled. Players can then bite into the soft guard to create a custom fit. While they are better than stock guards, they can still be bulky and uncomfortable than custom fit options. Matthew Tkachuk of the Calgary Flames likes the Boil-and-Bite guard, as do many old-school hockey players.
Custom fit mouth guards
These are the gold standard in mouth guard protection and are widely used by NHL players. Dental professionals create custom-fit mouthguards using accurate impressions or digital scans of the player's teeth and mouth. They offer superior fit, comfort, and protection. Mason Appleton of the Winnipeg Jets is an example of a player who wears a custom-fit guard—made by a Winnipeg dentist, which provides the best fit and protection. If you're not sure where to get one, you can find a dentist near you who can provide you with custom-fitted mouth guards.
Benefits of Custom Fit Mouthguards
Custom fit mouth guards offer several key benefits that make them worth the investment for NHL players and elite hockey athletes:
Superior Protection
Custom mouthpieces are designed to fit each player's teeth and mouth structure precisely. This precise fit ensures maximum coverage and protection of the teeth, gums, and jaw. The custom design allows for maximum tension in critical areas while maintaining comfort and breathability.
Improved comfort and performance
The precise fit of custom mouthguards makes them more comfortable to wear, which is important for players who need to communicate on the ice and maintain proper breathing during physical exertion. Many NHL players report that custom guards feel like a natural part of their mouth, allowing them to fully concentrate on their game without distraction.
Strength and Longevity
Custom mouthpieces are often made of higher quality materials than off-the-shelf options. This increased strength means that they maintain their defensive structures for longer, even under the harsh conditions of professional hockey. Although they may have a higher initial cost, their longevity often makes them a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Customization Options
Many NHL players appreciate the ability to make their own custom mouth guards. Options can include team colors, logos, or personal designs, allowing players to express their individuality while maintaining professional-level protection.
The impact of mouthguard use in the NHL
The widespread adoption of mouth guards in the NHL has had a significant positive impact on player safety. Although exact NHL statistics are not publicly available, hockey studies have shown that proper use of mouth guards can reduce the risk of dental injuries by up to 60%.
Evidence Player
Many NHL players have talked about the importance of mouth guards in their careers. For example, Sidney Crosby, one of the league's best players, advocated the use of mouth guards, especially after suffering from concussion-related problems early in his career.
The conclusion
The use of mouth guards in the NHL is an important aspect of player safety that is often overlooked by the average fan. These small but important pieces of equipment protect players from career-altering dental injuries. While all types of mouth guards provide some protection, custom fit mouth guards provide professional hockey players with the best safety, comfort, and performance.
As sports continue to evolve and player safety remains a priority, mouthguard technology and its use are likely to continue to evolve. For NHL players, investing in quality, custom-fit mouth guards isn't just about protecting their teeth—it's about protecting their career, their health and their ability to play at the sport's highest level.
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