A review of dental injuries and the use of mouthguards in contact team sports.

Dental injuries are the commonest type of orofacial injury sustained during participation in sports. Of the types which are currently available, custom-made mouthguards fitted by a dentist have been demonstrated to provide the greatest protection from dental injuries. Such mouthguards should therefore be recommended for use by those who participate in contact sports, and their provision should be actively encouraged by dental care workers.