Mouth Guard Mma

When Should the Mouthguard Be Removed?

Why do boxers remove their mouthguards after being knocked down?
"During intense matches, a boxer's mouthguard may shift or become loose. When a boxer is knocked down and loses consciousness, the mouthguard can slide toward the back of the throat, posing a risk of suffocation. The referee's top priority is to ensure the boxer can breathe normally and avoid suffocation. Therefore, after a boxer is knocked down, the referee must act quickly to remove the mouthguard and clear the airway. This is a common occurrence in boxing matches."

Should the Mouthguard Be Removed During Rest Periods?

Yes, it is advisable to remove the mouthguard during rest periods, primarily to allow the mouth to relax and breathe. This also facilitates drinking water or performing other necessary oral hygiene tasks.

Types of Mouthguards:

ab. Prefabricated single-arch mouthguard

cd. Prefabricated double-arch mouthguard

Dr. Yu Lina explains that single-arch mouthguards can be made for either the upper or lower jaw. However, in contact sports, the upper jaw is more prone to injury. The upper front teeth (incisors) are especially vulnerable, accounting for about 80% of injuries. Therefore, upper-jaw mouthguards are more commonly used.

Tooth Protection Tips for Boxing Practice

What other steps can the average person take to protect their teeth when practicing boxing?

Reminders: In addition to wearing a mouthguard, consider the following tips:

Avoid biting down on your gloves.

Learn proper boxing techniques and defensive postures, especially those that protect the head and neck, to avoid using excessive force or incorrect form that could lead to dental injuries.

Warm up and stretch adequately before training to reduce muscle tension and lower the risk of injury.

Use a toothbrush, dental floss or interdental brush, and mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene, reduce bacterial buildup, and prevent infections.

Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor oral health.