The use of protective gear in contact sports has been mandated by the governing body depending on the type of sport. These are intended to ensure that athletes are safe and to reduce the risk of injuries. If you are uncertain whether your type of sport requires protective equipment like mouthguards, then here is a list on how protective gear is regulated in contact sports.
International and National Governing Bodies
Sports governing bodies like the World Rugby and the National Football League (NFL) have established rules and guidelines for the use of protective equipment. These include helmets, mouthguards, and paddings to provide protection to their players.
For instance, World Rugby released a mandate for the use of a rugby mouthguard for all players. At the same time, they also highly recommend the use of headgear to protect against concussions. On the other hand, the NFL will require you to wear a helmet, mouthguards, and shoulder pads as a standard protective equipment. These strict rules will ensure that equipment will meet safety standards.
Youth and Amateur Sports Leagues
A lot of amateur and youth leagues also mandate the use of protective gear, which is often more stringent than professional leagues, so younger athletes are protected. Some leagues also have regulations with regards to the use of face masks and shin guards, as well as gloves.
Regulations for the Use of Helmet
It is mandatory to use a helmet in sports like American football, ice hockey, and rugby. In addition, the helmet should meet with the specific safety standards set by the governing bodies or other similar regulatory bodies.
Protective Equipment in Combat Sports
The use of headgear is needed in amateur matches and training, while mouthguards are mandatory in all forms, including professional matches. In addition, the use of gloves, groyne protectors, and shin guards is also required for the youth and amateur leagues.
Why Mouthguards Are Important
You might already have noticed the use of mouthguards in sports particularly in boxing. Well, this is primarily intended to prevent dental injuries. Mouthguards are highly effective in reducing the risk of broken or knocked-out teeth during sports like rugby, hockey, football, and boxing.
It is also important to protect your jaw during sports competitions. They help cushion impacts and reduce the risk of jaw fractures and dislocations. Other than that, it can also provide soft tissue protection. Mouthguards protect the lips, cheeks, and tongue from being cut by the teeth during a collision or fall.
Moreover, athletes are required to wear this protective gear in order to reduce the risk of concussions. In fact, some studies suggest that a properly fitted mouthguard can lessen the severity of concussions by absorbing shock. Although this protection is secondary to their primary role in oral safety.
Types of Mouthguards for Athletes There are three basic types of mouthguards that correspond to the levels of protection, comfort, and fit. Each type has its own benefits and the choice will depend on the level of activity, risk of injury, and budget. But the safest type is the custom-fit mouthguard, aside from the boil-and-bite options that serve as a good middle ground for most athletes.
