Dentists praise AFL for mouthguard statement

The Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch has congratulated the AFL for acknowledging the importance of mouthguards, saying that they should be worn when playing or training for any sport or activity where there is a potential for a contact to the face.

The AFL recently released a position statement Role of Helmets and Mouthguards in Australian Football which states: “Mouthguards have a definite role in preventing injuries to the teeth and face and for this reason they are strongly recommended at all levels of football”.

Branch President Dr Gordon Burt said that recent community debate on the role of protective gear has focused on the potential role of helmets in reducing injury and the ADAVB is pleased to see that the AFL has recommended mouthguards in this position statement.