An evaluation of mouthguard programs in Texas high school football.

Recent publications have indicated the interest in and controversy surrounding mouth protectors in sports dentistry. Mouth protection for athletes has been and continues to be dentistry's contribution to sports. Perhaps no other item of protective equipment is more effective in reducing injury to football players than a mouthguard. Although protection is no longer doubtful when a mouthguard is worn, there are still many mouthguards used that are not acceptable to the athletes in terms of comfort, durability, and speech. It is the responsibility of the dental profession to develop and dispense the best mouthguards available. From the present study it may be concluded that a properly constructed custom-made mouthguard will minimize the common complaints coaches and trainers have concerning mouthguards. It is apparent that more education about the types of mouthguards, their merits, and their availability is needed.