Prevention of Traumatic Dental Injuries; Mouthguard and Facemask

AbstractTraumatic dental injuries (TDIs) represent a significant public health concern, particularly in children and adolescents, with lifelong esthetic, functional, and psychologicalconsequences. The majority of TDIs occur in the anterior maxillary region and are often caused by falls, sports, traffic accidents, and interpersonal violence. Prevention is centered on identifying risk factors, implementing protective strategies, and raising awareness among patients, parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. Education plays a crucial role in empowering children, families, and coaches to adopt preventive behaviors and ensureproper first aid management of injuries. Protective appliances, including faceguards and mouthguards, are proven to significantly reduce the severity and incidence of dental trauma in contact sports and high-risk activities. Among these, custom made mouthguards fabricated from EVA copolymers provide superior comfort, retention, and protection, though challenges remain regarding their cost effectiveness and compliance. Despite limitations in large-scale controlled studies, evidence supports the integration of preventive orthodontics, community education, safety regulations, and the routine use of protective gear as part of a comprehensive strategy to minimize traumatic dental injuries. A systematic, multi-disciplinary approach is essential to reduce the burden of TDIs and ensure long-term oral health and quality of life.