Affiliation:
1. College of Dental Medicine, QU Health Qatar University Doha Qatar
2. Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Department, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine Boston University Massachusetts Boston United States
3. Department of Preventive Dentistry, Division of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry Jordan University of Science and Technology Irbid Jordan
4. Sunna Orthodontics Amman Jordan
Abstract
AbstractIntroductionMouthguards (MGs) have the potential to prevent contact sport‐related dental injuries. However, varying perceptions of their effectiveness persist, influencing recommendations by dental professionals.AimTo assess the attitudes, knowledge, and perceptions of orthodontists, other dental practitioners (general dentists and other dental specialists), and orthodontic patients involved in contact sports regarding the use of MGs.MethodologyA cross‐sectional survey was designed to collect information from dental clinicians (orthodontists and other dental practitioners) and their orthodontic patients about using MGs during sports participation. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the participants for an online survey. A total of 107 (32 males/75 females) dental clinicians and 147 (75 males/72 females) orthodontic patients (mean age 17.5 ± 5.84 years) participated in the study. Pre‐validated questionnaires, specifically designed for dental clinicians and orthodontic patients, were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 28.0; SPSS).ResultsNearly 50% of dental clinicians have recently recommended MGs to their patients in their clinical practice out of which 59% preferred the stock type; 33% of dental clinicians enquired their patients about involvement in contact sports during initial visits. The majority of orthodontic patients acquired knowledge about MGs through the Internet. More than half of orthodontic patients expressed unwillingness to pay for MGs, and 89% of orthodontic patients found using MGs during contact sports uncomfortable.ConclusionThe findings provide valuable insights into the practices and attitudes of dental clinicians and orthodontic patients regarding MGs, their recommendations, and the comfort levels associated with using them during contact sports.