Introduction
Roller hockey is an exhilarating sport that requires speed, agility, and precision. However, the nature of the game makes it inherently risky. With players constantly skating at high speeds, making quick turns, and battling for position, accidental collisions are inevitable. These collisions can result in serious dental injuries, including chipped or broken teeth, concussions, and jaw fractures all potentially life-altering events.
A mouthguard is a protective device worn over your upper (and sometimes lower) teeth to absorb the impact of a blow to the face. It acts as a shock absorber, reducing the force transferred to your teeth and jaw. While it won't prevent every injury, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard significantly lowers the risk of dental trauma and concussion.
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) recommends that all roller hockey players wear mouthguards during games and practices. Even recreational skaters should consider using them to protect their smiles. Lets explore different types of mouthguards available for roller hockey, each with its own pros and cons.
Types of Roller Hockey Mouthguards
Mouthguards come in three primary categories: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made. Each type offers varying levels of protection and comfort at different price points. Let's examine each one closely.
1. Stock Mouthguards (Ready-to-Wear)
Stock mouthguards are the most affordable option but also offer the least amount of customization and protection. These pre-formed, single-size guards are found in sporting goods stores and pharmacies. They can be bulky and uncomfortable to wear, making it difficult to breathe or talk properly. Furthermore, they don't fit snugly over your teeth, leaving gaps that allow impact forces to reach vulnerable areas.
Pros:
- Inexpensive (around $5-$10)
- Readily available in stores
- Easy to purchase and use immediately
Cons:
- Poor fit uncomfortable and restrictive
- Limited protection against dental injuries and concussions
- Can interfere with breathing and speech
While stock mouthguards are better than nothing, they're generally not recommended for roller hockey. The minimal level of protection offered doesnt justify the discomfort they cause.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards (Thermoformable)
Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a step up in both comfort and protection compared to stock models. These thermoplastic guards are soft when warmed and moldable when placed over your teeth, allowing you to customize the fit slightly. You simply dip them in hot water for a few seconds, let them cool enough to handle, then bite down firmly on them to create an impression of your teeth.
Pros:
- Better fit than stock mouthguards
- Relatively inexpensive (around $15-$30)
- Easy to mold at home with minimal equipment required
Cons:
- Limited customization the fit isnt as precise as a custom-made guard
- Still may be slightly bulky and restrict breathing or speech
- The thermoplastic material can wear down over time, reducing protection
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a popular choice for roller hockey players looking for affordable yet improved protection. While they don't offer the same level of comfort or safety as custom guards, they represent a significant improvement over stock models.
3. Custom Mouthguards (Professionally Made)
Custom mouthguards are crafted by dentists or orthodontists using impressions taken from your teeth and gums. This ensures an exact fit that maximizes protection while minimizing discomfort. They're typically made of durable materials like EVA foam, which provides excellent shock absorption and long-lasting performance.
Pros:
- Superior fit comfortable to wear and allows for easy breathing and speech
- Highest level of dental injury and concussion protection
- Made from high-quality, durable materials that last longer than boil-and-bite guards
- Can be designed with specific features like team logos or colors
Cons:
- Most expensive option (around $100-$300)
- Requires a trip to the dentist for impressions and fitting
- Longer wait time typically takes 1-2 weeks to receive your custom mouthguard
While custom mouthguards are pricier, many players consider them well worth the investment due to their superior comfort, protection, and longevity. They're especially recommended for competitive roller hockey players or those with existing dental work (braces, crowns, etc.) that requires extra safeguarding.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Mouthguard
Regardless of which type of mouthguard you choose, there are several key features to look for:
- Fit: The most important factor is fit. A properly fitted mouthguard should be snug but comfortable, covering all your teeth and extending slightly onto the gums. It shouldn't impede breathing or speech significantly.
- Material: EVA foam is a popular material for roller hockey mouthguards due to its shock-absorbing properties and durability. Silicone is another option, offering excellent comfort but potentially less protection than EVA.
- Thickness: Thicker mouthguards generally offer more protection, but they can also be bulkier and more restrictive. Finding the right balance between thickness and comfort is key.
- Retention: Look for a mouthguard with good retention it should stay securely in place during play without needing constant adjustment. Straps or clasps may help keep the guard from slipping out.
- Durability: Choose a mouthguard made of durable materials that can withstand repeated impacts and won't easily break or tear.
- Ease of Cleaning: A mouthguard should be easy to clean and maintain. Removable liners are a plus, as they allow for more thorough cleaning.
Benefits of Using Mouthguards in Roller Hockey
Beyond protecting your teeth from impact injuries, wearing a mouthguard offers several other benefits:
- Reduced Risk of Concussions: Properly fitted mouthguards have been shown to reduce the severity and frequency of concussions by cushioning blows to the jaw and preventing excessive movement of the head.
- Protection for Dental Work: If you already have braces, crowns, bridges, or implants, a mouthguard is essential to protect your investment in these treatments from damage during play.
- Jaw Support: Mouthguards can help stabilize the lower jaw, reducing stress on temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and preventing TMJ disorders.
- Improved Performance: A comfortable, well-fitted mouthguard allows you to focus entirely on the game without worrying about your teeth or jaw getting injured. This can lead to improved performance and overall enjoyment of the sport.