Protetores bucais: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

Sports practice, whether amateur or professional, corresponds to one of the etiological factors of orofacial injuries and traumas. The use of mouthguards, custom-made by dentists, represents an effective alternative in the prevention or minimization of these types of injuries. However, it is observed that not all athletes are well-informed about their importance, due to limited promotion or even negligence in their usage. Due to the importance of their use, it is crucial that these devices do not cause discomfort to users or interfere with athletic performance. Thus, it is evident that some factors should be considered by dentists, providing precise recommendations according to the needs and individuality of each patient. Through this literature review, we assess which mouthguards are most effective in preventing orofacial injuries, the materials from which they are made, their mechanisms of action, and how their characteristics are relevant for recommendation. Additionally, we evaluate the care these devices require, their manufacturing methods, and their necessity for athletes, including those undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. In this context, Sports Dentistry plays a prominent role, aiming to maintain athletic performance through informative, preventive, and/or curative processes, ensuring that injuries in the oral cavity do not result in limitations in physical activity.