Do American football players in Turkey protect themselves from dental or orofacial trauma?

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Dental and orofacial trauma in contact sports differs from other sources, as it is possible to prevent it and reduce the dental and orofacial trauma by using protection devices. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of dental or orofacial trauma in American football players of Turkey National League as well as to investigate if the players were aware of mouthguards (MGs) and had used any.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An epidemiological survey was carried out through interviews with 78 American football players in four clubs competing in Turkey National League. Thirteen players had already been affected by orofacial trauma.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Results revealed that 67 of 78 Turkish-American football players were aware of MG, while 46 of 78 players also demonstrated its use. It should be concluded that from the moment a youngster starts practising football, he should be encouraged to wear an MG to get used to the sensation and, would automatically consider it as a part of the game. A great responsibility lies on dentists, to inform their patients about the importance of wearing MG and the consequences, if it is not worn.