Risk of orofacial injuries and mouthguard use in water polo players

Background/aim: The incidence of orofacial injuries and the use of mouthguards in water polo players have not been well established. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of orofacial injuries in water polo players. Frequency of mouthguard use, the types of mouthguards used and the degree of interference with oral functions were also assessed.

Material and methods: In this cross-sectional study, 347 water polo players completed a questionnaire about the orofacial injuries suffered in the 2015-2016 season and the experience of using a mouthguard, such as the type of mouthguard used and the degree of interference with oral functions.

Results: In the 2015-2016 season, 57.9% of the players reported at least one orofacial injury, with mean numbers of 2.7 oral lacerations, 0.4 episodes of temporomandibular pain and 0.06 dental injuries. Among the 35 players (10.1%) who had tried a mouthguard, only four (1.2%) used it habitually. Some players had tried more than one type of mouthguard; 26 had tried the mouth-formed type; 11 the custom-made type; and 7 the prefabricated mouthguard. Custom-made mouthguards were rated as more comfortable than the mouth-formed type (P < 0.05). The main disadvantages of mouth-formed mouthguards were interferences with speaking, breathing and swallowing.

Conclusions: The incidence of orofacial injuries in water polo players is high. Although some players had tried a mouthguard, mainly the mouth-formed type, most of them do not wear them routinely for training and competition.