What is a key educational point of dental injury management for athletes?

• A. Importance of wearing a properly fitted mouthguard
• B. Mouthguards are optional for all sports
• C. Mouthguards guarantee no dental injuries
• D. Mouthguards should be worn only after injury

Answer: (A)

Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is essential because it acts as a cushion that absorbs and disperses forces from blows to the face, significantly reducing the risk of chipped, fractured, or displaced teeth and soft-tissue injuries. A mouthguard that fits well stays in place, protects the dentition more effectively, and allows normal breathing and speaking, which is why custom-fitted or well-made boil-and-bite options are preferred. Athletes should wear a mouthguard during all practices and games, not only after an injury, to provide ongoing protection. While mouthguards greatly reduce risk, they do not guarantee that no dental injuries will occur, so relying on protection rather than assuming immunity is important.