title: [Mouthguards: a difficult choice?].
abstract: It is the dentists' task to advise their patients what type of mouthguard grants the best possible protection. It is generally accepted that off-the-counter mouthguards are not sufficiently protective. These mouthguards are usually ill-fitting and not worn in the mouth but in the sporting shorts' pocket instead. A custom-fabricated mouthguard is proven to offer maximal protection. A mouthguard has to offer adequate protection with high comfort. A composite laminate construction and space between the inner surface of the mouthguard and the labial surface of the upper front teeth are essential for adequate protection. Transitional dentition and/or orthodontic appliances are no limitation to fabricate a custom-formed mouthguard.
authors: Universitair Medisch Centrum St. Radboud in Nijmegen. ereukers@euronet.nl
authors: H A J
authors: HA
authors: Reukers
authors: P A
authors: PA
authors: van Damme
mesh_terms: D003818:Dentition, Mixed; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009064:Mouth Protectors / Q000592:standards*; D009967:Orthodontic Appliances / Q000592:standards*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D018677:Tooth Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control*