MOUTHGUARDS

Introduction: Contemporary dentistry has shifted its paradigm from therapeuticto preventive. Dento-alveolar injuries are quiet frequently reported and sports remain as oneof the major cause. In Pakistan contact sports like boxing, hockey, football etc are activelyplayed at all levels. It is the need of the hour to prevent the dental and dento-alveolar injuriesresulting from these. Literature suggests that mouthguard is the best option available. Aimsand Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness about mouthguardsin final year students, PG trainees, and faculty of University College of Dentistry and privatedental practitioners of Lahore. Also the results shall be utilized to assess the need of awarenessprogrammes that can be of help to the dentist and help serve the community. Study Design:cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out. Setting: Study was carried out in UniversityCollege of Dentistry and private practitioners of Lahore. Period: Study was carried out over aperiod of 6 months. Material and Methods: 87% responded to questionnaire distributed from asample of 200. Results: Results show that the students had the least knowledge (63%) whereas100% of the assistant professors and above had knowledge of mouthguard. general dentistsand the senior faculty was the one with higher percentages which recommended mouthguards53% and 80% respectively. Conclusion: Results lead to the conclusion that there is a need toimprove the competency level of the dentists regarding mouthguards, their benefits, fabricationetc. so they can educate the patients, promote the use if mouthguards and limit the incidence ofinjuries. Further research projects need to be funded to highlight the importance of mouthguardsand their use should be encouraged.