Healthcare professionals and parents have long sought better ways to protect children from sports-related injuries. While most dental research in this area focused on protecting the teeth and gums, recent research indicates that by protecting the mouth correctly, you may reduce the risk of a sports-related concussion.
A recent study released by the Academy of General Dentistry examined the effect of an over-the-counter (OTC) mouthguard versus a professionally made mouth guard on the incidents of mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI)/concussions. The researchers split 412 children into two groups, one received a professionally fabricated mouthguard (made by a dentist) and the other received an OTC mouthguard from a sports store. All children wore the same football helmet.
The results indicated that 8.3% of athletes with the OTC mouthguard suffered from MTBI/concussions. For athletes using custom-made mouthguards, the rate of MTBI/concussions was only 3.6%.
Some factors that contributed to the greater effectiveness of the custom-made mouthguards included the fit of the mouthguard and the thickness. Custom-made mouthguards fit better and last longer than OTC mouthguards. They also tend to be thicker with the custom-made ones averaging 3.5 mm in thickness with the OTC mouthguards averaging 1.65 mm.
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140501101133.htm
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd. Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!
No comments:
Post a Comment