Technology has sparked many advancements in various industries, including sports. Sportswear, in particular, has benefited greatly from the ongoing technological revolution. Athletes play an important role in this transformation, as sportswear is now designed to match their evolving skills.
When we talk about sportswear, we always think of something familiar, like basketball shoes, baseball bats and badminton rackets. But beyond all this, the revolution is very visible in sports protective equipment. Dental mouthguard technology, which provides enhanced jaw and mouth protection in many sports, is just one of them.
If you are interested in the latest advances in this protective equipment, we will first explore the history of dental mouthguard technology and discuss its latest advancements.
Woolf Krause
The dentist who invested in the mouthguard is Dr. Wolf Krause. He was a 19th century English dentist who created a mouthguard in 1890 in London. During this period, boxers designed their protective gear to prevent lacerations. These gears are made of pieces of cotton, tape, sponge and sometimes wood. It was at this point that Krause realized the need for such a contraption.
The first version of mouthguard is called “Gum Shield”. It's not made of rubbery materials like we have today. Gum shields were originally made of gutta-percha, a latex-like material derived from the sap of specific trees. This creation was used to prevent lip cuts, which were common injuries among boxers at the time.
After Woolf Krause, her son, Philip Krause, continued to develop the invention. Other names, such as Dr. Rodney O. Lilyquist, have modified the original mouthguard designs, making them suitable for many sports other than boxing.
Today, those created by Lulyquist, made of clear acrylic resin, are used in many sports like basketball and football. These are the types of mouthguard Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne dentists can offer. It is always best to consult these professionals to ensure that your mouthguard fits perfectly and can benefit your mouth and gums.
Dental Protective Materials Today
Initially, mouthguards are known to be made from acrylic resins. However, this type of material does not provide the desired level of comfort for athletes. With the introduction of the following new dental protection materials, comfort and safety are widely considered.
Thermoplastic materials –These materials are easy to mold when heated, making them ideal for custom guards. They are also lightweight, sturdy and resistant to breakage, making them ideal for mouthguards.
Silicon-based protections – Softer than acrylic, silicone-based protectors are ideal for nighttime protection as they provide a more comfortable fit.
Biocompatibility
Biocompatibility is the main direction of technological progress in the field of dental mouthguards. Considering this, the mouthguards remain safe for prolonged use and contact with oral tissues.
Antimicrobial properties – Many mouthguards today feature antimicrobial properties. These properties promote oral hygiene and reduce bad breath by reducing bacterial growth on mouthguards. They also ensure that no toxic chemicals will escape during wear.
Non-toxic additives – Some chemicals have harmful effects on human health. Recognizing this, non-toxic additives are now used in modern dental mouthguard materials. If you are particularly careful about chemical exposures, you can also opt for BPA free dental protections, which guarantee peace of mind and safety.
Speaking of biocompatibility, polyurethane dental guards are superior to many other materials. It provides comfort and protection and guarantees both flexibility and durability.
When it comes to ensuring strength and resistance to wear, nano-composite technology is at the top of the game. They can also be more transparent and lightweight, making them less visible and ideal for wearers who care about their health. aesthetic.
Modern mouthguards in sport
In modern sports, mouthguards are considered essential protective equipment without which an elite athlete cannot play. We all know many successful NBA players who wear mouthguards on the court. Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Rajon Rondo, Blake Griffin, Tim Hardaway and Stephen Curry are just a few of the many athletes recognizing the importance of mouthguards when playing.
Many would agree that mouthguards worn by athletes, especially custom-made ones, add “swag” to the wearer. Football players, who often wear larger mouthguards, are fond of custom models. Some mouthguards for football players even come with lip guards. Modern versions of this mouthguard feature breathing channels, allowing players to breathe normally as they would.
More than protection, these lip protectors are more like equipment that gives “personality” to those who wear them. With so many custom designs and styles, a player can show off their personality with this modern sportswear.
Wrap
Over the years, dental health has progressed greatly. As more innovative materials are discovered through science and technology, more functional, more comfortable and more aesthetically pleasing dental mouthguards will be introduced to wearers. Of course, it is best to consult a professional dental technician before deciding which mouthguard would be right for you, especially if you play contact sports.