Geometrical comparison between instrumented and non-instrumented mouthguards for rugby: A pilot study

Abstract

Rugby is a sport with a high injury rate. Much has been done to make the sport safer, particularly in terms of limiting and identifying concussions. Recently, instrumented mouthguards have been developed and used to measure events that may lead to concussion. However, these instrumented mouthguards may not have an appropriate geometry regarding shock absorption and comfort. In addition, there is no specific international standard for instrumented mouthguards. This study proposed a geometric analysis of both instrumented and non-instrumented mouthguards. Ten instrumented mouthguards were analysed and compared with three non-instrumented mouthguards. They were inspected visually, with a 3D envelope scan and with a CT scan. The results showed that the mouthguards did not comply with recommendations such as indentation with the lower teeth which may increase injury or fracture risk.