Comparative evaluation of custom and standard boil and bite (self-adapted) mouthguards and their effect on the functioning of the oral cavity.

BACKGROUND Mouthguards provide an effective preventive method against the effects of injuries sustained during sports activities, in particular cycling, football, basketball, skiing or hockey. However, when placed in the oral cavity, they can induce disorders in basic physiological functions. AIM The objective of this clinical study was to compare the effects of various custom mouthguards with generally available standard boil and bite mouthguards on the functions of the oral cavity. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of a 168 mouthguards (five custom and three standard boil and bite mouthguards) were assessed in a questionnaire-based survey. Their negative effects on the integrity of mucosa, speech, breathing, salivary flow and taste as well as in terms of inducing gag reflex, tooth clenching and temporomandibular joint complaints were compared. RESULTS Porida mouthguard was reported to have the most adverse effects on oral functions. In the majority of the respondents, the remaining mouthguards did not have any adverse effects on the stomatognathic system functions. CONCLUSIONS Mouthguards do not significantly disturb basic functions of the stomatognathic system. Standard Porida mouthguards were shown to have the most unfavourable effect on oral functions.