Oro-facial Injuries and Mouth Guard use in British National League Water Polo Players

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this cross-sectional study is to assess the prevalence of facial, oral and dental injuries and frequency of mouth guard use amongst British Men's National Division 1 water polo players. Material and methods: All National League Division 1 water polo club squads were included in the study. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire that sought information regarding injuries and mouth guard use. Results: One hundred and sixteen completed questionnaires were returned (87% response rate). Ninety four percent of subjects reported having experienced at least one facial, oral or dental injury whilst playing water polo. Of the injuries sustained, those to the lips and tongue were the most prevalent (84.5%). Facial injuries were also common. Forty percent of those injured, reported having sustained at least one dental injury, of which tooth fracture was the most common. More than seventy percent believed that mouth guards were effective at preventing injury but mouth guards were worn regularly when playing by only 8 respondents. Conclusions: It was concluded that facial, oral and dental injuries were very common. Seventy percent believed that mouth guards were effective at preventing injury but mouth guards were worn regularly during matches by few respondents.