Mouth guards are designed to protect the teeth and gums from injury while playing sports. They are required in some contact sports, like football and hockey, but are optional in others, like basketball. Many NBA players wear mouthguards, even though they are not required to do so. There are several reasons why players may choose to wear a mouth guard, including preventing injuries, reducing pain, and improving performance.
Why do NBA Players Wear Mouthguards?
Preventing Injuries:
A well-designed mouthguard can help protect the teeth, jaws, and lips from impact. They can also reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing some of the force of a blow to the head.
Reducing Pain:
You know how painful it can be if you’ve been hit in the mouth with a basketball. Mouthguards can help protect against this pain by cushioning the teeth and gums.
Improving Performance:
Many players believe that mouth guards can improve performance.
What Are The Materials Used To Create Mouth Guards?
Latex is one of the most commonly used materials in mouthguards. It is affordable and provides a good level of protection. However, latex can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have a latex allergy, you will need to find another type of mouth guard.
Acrylic is another popular material for mouthguards. It is similar to latex in terms of protection but does not cause allergies. Acrylic mouthguards can be custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly.
What Are The Types Of Mouth Guards Worn By Nba Players?
There are three main mouthguards worn by NBA players: stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-fit mouthguards.
Stock Mouthguards:
Stock mouthguards are the least expensive and most widely available type of mouthguard. They come in pre-formed sizes and can be bought at most sporting goods stores.
Boil-And-Bite Mouthguards:
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are made from a thermoplastic material that becomes pliable when heated in water. They can be molded to fit the wearer’s teeth for a more comfortable and secure fit.
Custom-Fit Mouthguards:
Custom-fit mouthguards are made from impressions of the wearer’s teeth and provide the best fit, comfort, and protection.
Is It Illegal To Wear Mouthguards In The Nba?
Yes, it is legal. Mouthguards have been mandatory in the NBA. Every player is required to wear a mouthguard during games and practices. There are a few exceptions to this rule. If a player has a medical condition that prevents him from wearing a mouthguard, he must get approval from the league office.
Why Do Nba Players Wear Clear Mouthguards?
NBA players might wear clear mouthguards because they offer a better fit than traditional rubber mouthguards. Clear mouthguards are also less likely to cause gum irritation. Players may also prefer the way clear mouthguards look.
Clear mouthguards have some advantages over traditional rubber mouthguards but also some disadvantages. Clear mouthguards can be more expensive than rubber mouthguards. They may also fog up during games, making it difficult for players to see clearly.
Is It Easy To Play Basketball While Wearing A Mouthguard?
Playing basketball with a mouthguard may not be as easy as it looks. They can interfere with breathing and communication on the court. Mouthguards can also make it difficult to drink water during breaks in the action, which can lead to dehydration. Players must be careful not to let their mouthguards fall out while they’re playing, or they could risk getting a technical foul.
Despite all of these potential challenges, most NBA players say that wearing a mouthguard is worth it to protect their teeth from hard falls and collisions. And with a little practice, it’s possible to get used to playing with a mouthguard and minimize any negative effects.
How To Clean A Mouthguard?
Rinse your mouthguard with cold water after each use. This will help remove any bacteria or food particles clinging to the surface.
If your mouthguard starts to smell, you can soak it in a mixture of 1 part water and 1 part vinegar for about 15 minutes. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly afterward.
To disinfect your mouthguard, boil it in water for 5 minutes or soak it in rubbing alcohol for 30 minutes. Again, be sure to rinse it well afterward.
Conclusion:
NBA players do indeed wear mouthguards. While the type of mouthguard worn varies depending on the player, all players take this safety precaution. This is because many contacts are involved in basketball, and players want to avoid dental injury. Wearing a mouthguard is easy to protect oneself, so all NBA players make sure to have one on hand during games.
Clyde Jackson III is a basketball coach and the founder of GCBC Basketball, a basketball-related learning and informational website that focuses on helping young players develop their skills on and off the court. With over 15 years of coaching experience, Clyde has worked with players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
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