Roller derby mouth guard

Why every roller derby player needs a mouth guard

Roller derby is a high-impact sport that demands speed, agility, and toughness. While protective pads and helmets are standard, one piece of equipment often overlooked by beginners, but absolutely crucial for experienced skaters, is a high-quality roller derby mouth guard. The intensity of falls, collisions, and jammers pushing through the pack can lead to serious dental injuries. A well-fitting mouth guard is your first and best line of defense against chipped teeth, broken teeth, jaw fractures, and concussions.

Think about the physics involved. When you fall, your body absorbs impact. If your jaw is clenched or your teeth are exposed, they become vulnerable points. A mouth guard acts as a cushion, distributing the force of impact and protecting your oral structures. The Professional Dental Association (ADA) strongly recommends mouth guards for all athletes participating in contact sports, and roller derby certainly falls into that category. Not all mouth guards are created equal, especially for the unique demands of roller derby.

Types of roller derby mouth guards

When selecting a roller derby mouth guard, you'll encounter a few main types, each with its own pros and cons:

• Stock mouth guards

  These are the most basic and least expensive options, available at most sporting goods stores. They are pre-formed and come in various sizes. However, they offer a generic fit, can be bulky, and often interfere with breathing and speaking. For roller derby, where communication is key, these are generally not recommended.

• Boil-and-bite mouth guards

  These are a significant upgrade from stock mouth guards. Boil-and-bite guards are made from thermoplastic material that softens when immersed in hot water. You then bite into the softened material, allowing it to mold to the unique shape of your teeth and gums. This provides a much more secure and comfortable fit, improving breathability and speech. Many roller derby players find this type to be a good balance of cost and protection.

  Example: Brands like Shock Doctor and Mueller offer popular boil-and-bite models that are frequently used by roller derby athletes. The process typically involves boiling water, submerging the mouth guard for a specific time, and then carefully molding it to your bite.

• Custom-fitted mouth guards

  For the ultimate in comfort, protection, and fit, custom-fitted mouth guards are the gold standard. These are made by a dental professional who takes an impression of your teeth. The impression is then used to create a mouth guard that is perfectly tailored to your mouth's unique structure. While they are the most expensive option, they offer superior protection, optimal breathability, and are so comfortable you might forget you're wearing one.

  Benefit: A custom guard can be designed with specific features for athletes, such as channels for breathing or extra cushioning in high-impact zones. For professionals or those prone to dental issues, the investment is often well worth it.

Choosing the right fit and material

The effectiveness of any roller derby mouth guard hinges on its fit. A poorly fitting guard can be more of a hindrance than a help. Here's what to look for:

• Secure Fit: The mouth guard should stay in place even when your mouth is open. You shouldn't have to clench your teeth to keep it from falling out.
• Comfort: It shouldn't feel overly bulky or impede your ability to breathe through your nose and mouth. Good breathability is essential for maintaining stamina during long bouts.
• Protection: It should cover your teeth, gums, and ideally the ridge of your upper jaw. The material should have enough thickness to absorb impact effectively.
• Material Quality: Look for durable, non-toxic materials. Many sports mouth guards are made from EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or similar shock-absorbent plastics.

When fitting a boil-and-bite mouth guard, remember to follow the instructions precisely. Overheating can damage the material, while insufficient molding will result in a poor fit. If it doesn't feel right after the first attempt, you can often remold it.

The importance of hygiene and maintenance

Like any piece of sports equipment, your roller derby mouth guard requires regular cleaning and proper storage to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure its longevity. Neglecting hygiene can lead to unpleasant odors, taste, and potential oral health issues.

• Daily Cleaning: After each practice or game, rinse your mouth guard thoroughly with cool water. You can also gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Avoid harsh chemicals or hot water, which can degrade the material.
• Deep Cleaning: Periodically, you might want to soak your mouth guard in an antibacterial mouthwash solution or a specialized mouth guard cleaning solution. Follow the product instructions carefully.
• Proper Storage: Always store your mouth guard in a clean, ventilated case. This protects it from damage, dust, and bacteria. Avoid storing it in a damp gym bag, as this can promote microbial growth.
• Regular Replacement: Mouth guards, especially boil-and-bite ones, will wear down over time. Check yours regularly for signs of damage, such as tears, thinning, or a loose fit. It's generally recommended to replace your mouth guard at least once a year, or sooner if it shows signs of wear and tear.

Maintaining your roller derby mouth guard not only keeps it hygienic but also ensures it continues to provide optimal protection.

Beyond protection: additional benefits

While the primary function of a roller derby mouth guard is to prevent dental trauma, it can offer other advantages that contribute to an athlete's performance and well-being:

• Reduced risk of concussions

  While not a foolproof concussion prevention device, research suggests that mouth guards can help reduce the severity of blows to the jaw, which in turn may lessen the impact transmitted to the brain. By stabilizing the jaw, they can absorb some of the shock that might otherwise travel upwards.

• Improved airflow

  A well-designed mouth guard, particularly custom-fitted ones, can be engineered with special channels that facilitate easier breathing. This improved airflow can be critical for maintaining oxygen levels and endurance during intense roller derby jams.

• Enhanced focus

  Knowing you have adequate protection can provide peace of mind. This confidence can allow skaters to focus more on their strategy, performance, and the game itself, rather than worrying about potential injuries. This mental edge can be a significant advantage in a fast-paced sport like roller derby.

• Jaw stabilization

  Some mouth guards can help to keep the jaw in a more stable position. This can be beneficial in reducing the likelihood of jaw dislocation or other jaw-related injuries that can occur from direct impact or forceful jarring.

These additional benefits underscore why a roller derby mouth guard is an indispensable piece of equipment for any serious player.