Role of Mouthguards in Preventing Sports-Related Concussion

Introduction:

The brain is a freely floating organ in the cerebrospinal fluid. It moves at different cerebrospinal fluid levels in response to shock or clash. Neurological problems can occur depending on the type of collision. Approximately 1.7 million people in the United States are hospitalized for traumatic brain injury. Some brain injuries are concussions, meaning that a direct or indirect blow to the head, face, neck, or body results in an alteration of the person's mental status. The changes in neurologic function due to concussion often present rapidly and resolve spontaneously. Some of the traumas are unrecognized by the sports coaches and trainers.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a severe brain injury that is caused due to a blow or hit to the head while playing sports. It is more prevalent in youths who are involved in sports and athletics. This blow or movement to the head can cause changes in the skull, such as bouncing or twisting around the skull, that leads to chemical changes in the brain. It affects the brain cells and can damage them. It is a traumatic event where the pain and headaches can be temporary, but over time, they can cause problems with memory, concentration, vision, self-analysis, and consciousness. Most people recover completely after a traumatic event. The concussion is derived from the Latin word ‘concutere,’ which means to shake violently. The impact of the blow can jolt the brain. It causes injury to the nerves and blood vessels.

What Are the Risk Factors for Concussion?

The risk factors for concussion are:

• If someone is playing a contact sport such as football.

• Lack of safety gear for the game, such as a helmet.

• Lack of supervision from the third person for a contact sport.

• Being hit with a ball, object, or physical abuse during the game.

• Bike or car or bicycle accidents that blow the head.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion?

The signs and symptoms of concussion are:

• Bleeding or bruise.

• Headaches.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Vision problems.

• Dizziness.

• Irregular periods.

• Confusion.

• Lack of concentration and memory.

• Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping at night).

• Problems with taste or smell.

• Easily irritable.

• Sensitivity to light.

What Is a Mouthguard?

A mouthguard is also called a gumshield or sports guard. It is an appliance that protects the teeth, jaws, and lips. The guard is worn on the upper arch (upper teeth). The appliance separates the upper and lower arch. They prevent concussions by absorbing the forces from the blow. These forces can impact the skull. The mouthguard is made up of various materials. There are three types. Mouthguards have decreased the severity and occurrence of many injuries, especially dental ones. Properly fitted pressure laminated mouthguards are better in quality and fitting when compared to vacuum-formed mouthguards. Orofacial injuries are more prevalent in contact sports.

What Are the Types of Mouthguards?

The types of mouthguards are:

1. Stock Mouthguards - They are less expensive and less protective. They do not have retention support. They are bulky and uncomfortable. They can cause disturbance in speech and breathing. The posterior edges are cut off to make them more comfortable. It is available online or in drug stores or sports stores.

2. Custom Mouthguards - Dentist makes them. They are not available in sports goods shops. It is more expensive compared to other mouthguards. However, it is the best at protecting from a concussion, most mouthguards for the upper teeth. One can also get a custom-made mouthguard. The dentist will take a mold of the teeth using impression materials. This mold is used to create a mouthguard that adapts to the structure of the teeth and mouth.

3. Boil and Bite Mouthguards - They are standard in markets. They are made from thermoplastic material. Initially, one has to soften the material in hot water and be molded according to the teeth with fingers and biting pressure. Then it can be removed and run under cool water. It is proven that this mouthguard can decrease the thickness between upper and lower guards, removing the mouthguard's protective qualities. Later, the person might cut off the posterior edge to reduce the bulk.

How Do Mouthguards Prevent a Concussion?

Properly designed mouthguards dissipate the force reducing the magnitude of the impact. Custom-fitted mouthguards absorb the force of impact. The mouthguards cushion the tooth or mouth injuries due to physical contact. It acts as a barrier between the teeth, lips, tongue, and cheeks to avoid injuries caused by sports and other activities. Sports-related concussion is a significant problem. It frequently occurs in contact and collision sports. Mouthguards have shock absorption capability. Wearing a custom-made, properly fitted mouthguard can reduce the rate of concussion. The immediate impact on the brain and the beginning of the spinal cord causes a concussion. It is also caused by the lower jaw being driven against the skull where the joints are located. It helps absorb shock and stabilize the head and neck. It also limits the movements caused by a direct hit to the jaws. A custom mouthguard is more effective than a standard mouthguard in reducing concussions. A custom mouthguard can reduce the risk in the following ways:

• It enables proper speech.

• Does not disturb breathing.

• It makes speech clear.

• It stays appropriately inside the mouth during sports and other activities.

• It is effortless to clean.

• They do not break easily.

How to Use a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards can take up the bacteria from the mouth. It is essential to clean the mouth shield very well before putting a mouthguard in. The following methods should be followed before using a mouthguard:

• The mouthguard is stored in a vented plastic case. It has to be handled carefully to prevent shrinkage or warpage.

• Mouthguards should be kept from extreme heat and sunlight because heat can change their shape and structure.

• Clean the mouthguard using a paste or soapy liquid. It should be dry before use.

• It has to be stored out of reach of children and pet animals.

Conclusion:

Mouthguards protect the teeth from injury while playing sports, biking, or doing other activities. Mouthguards are available at stores. One can get a custom-fitted mouth shield from a dentist. The dentist will suggest wearing a mouthguard while sleeping (night guard) to prevent bruxism (grinding teeth habit during the night). There are different types of mouthguards. Customized mouthguards from a dentist make the best fitting.