The use of a protective sports mouthguards is recommended to anyone involved in a sport that has a significant risk of injury. Sports such as football, basketball, volleyball, boxing are considered to involve risk of teeth and gum injuries.
These are mouthguards that are elastic but thick enough to accomplish their purpose and usually cover the upper teeth. They are adapted to fit perfectly into the mouth.
They alleviate the forces exerted on the jaw, the joint, and the entire head at the time of a stroke or a fall. As a result, injuries are significantly reduced, both in the bones and in the soft tissues.
Their lifespan depends on how frequently the are used and the subsequent wear. Ideally they should be replaced after each sporting season because when they are worn they are not effective.