Protect your smile on the mats: the importance of mouthguards in jiu-jitsu!

Every year, athletes worldwide fall victim to preventable dental injuries that could have been avoided with the simple use of a mouthguard.

According to a 2017 study, a single completely dislocated tooth could cost teenage athletes up to $20,000 over their lifetime.

Jiu-jitsu, a dynamic and contact-intensive sport, while not allowing direct strikes to the face, exposes practitioners to accidental facial impacts. Consequently, dental injuries are not uncommon in the world of Jiu-Jitsu.

To safeguard against such risks, the American Dental Association (ADA) strongly advocates the use of mouthguards for martial arts and wrestling.

The Impact of Dental Injuries!

Dental injuries are often disregarded in sports, overshadowed by more visible injuries. However, these seemingly minor injuries can have profound consequences, both financially and emotionally. A dislocated or fractured tooth not only leads to immediate pain and discomfort but can also result in expensive dental procedures, orthodontic treatments, and even psychological distress due to altered appearance. By using a properly fitted mouthguard, Jiu-Jitsu practitioners can substantially reduce the risk of such injuries, avoiding both physical and financial pain.

Jiu-Jitsu and Dental Risks!

Jiu-Jitsu’s combination of throws, submissions, and positional control makes it a captivating yet demanding martial art. Despite strict rules against striking the face, accidental contact during intense sparring sessions is inevitable. The nature of the sport creates situations where participants can be inadvertently struck in the face, risking dental trauma. This is especially true during takedowns, groundwork, and transitions. A mouthguard acts as a protective barrier, cushioning the impact and minimizing the chances of dental injuries.

Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

 

 

The ADA’s Strong Recommendation!

The American Dental Association recognizes the significance of mouthguards in protecting athletes engaged in contact sports. Jiu-Jitsu, falling under this category due to its physical nature, greatly benefits from adhering to the ADA’s guidelines. The association recommends custom-fit mouthguards that provide optimal protection and comfort. These mouthguards are designed to fit snugly over the teeth, absorbing and dispersing the force of impact, thereby reducing the risk of dental injuries.

Choosing the Right Mouthguard!

When it comes to selecting a mouthguard for Jiu-Jitsu, there are different options available:

Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready-to-wear mouthguards available at sporting goods stores. While they offer some level of protection, they may not provide the best fit and comfort, potentially affecting breathing and speech.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These mouthguards can be customized to some extent by boiling them and then biting down to create a better fit. However, they may not offer the same level of precision as custom-made mouthguards.

Custom-Made Mouthguards: Custom-fitted mouthguards, typically made by dentists, offer the highest level of protection and comfort. They are designed specifically for your mouth’s shape, providing optimal cushioning and minimizing interference with breathing and communication.

Your smile is a valuable asset, and protecting it during Jiu-Jitsu training and competitions is essential. Dental injuries can be financially burdensome and emotionally distressing, but they are preventable with the use of an appropriate mouthguard.

Jiu-Jitsu practitioners of all levels should heed the advice of the American Dental Association and invest in a well-fitted mouthguard to ensure their oral health and maintain their passion for the sport without unnecessary risks. Don’t let a preventable dental injury knock you out of the game—guard your smile and train with confidence.

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Gracie Barra River Oaks: Effective martial arts programs for kids of all ages!

 

 

 

Gracie Barra River Oaks: A Premier Martial Arts Academy in Houston!

Gracie Barra River Oaks is a premier martial arts academy located in Houston, Texas. Founded by Professor Ulpiano Malachias, a world-renowned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, the academy offers top-notch training in Jiu Jitsu and mixed martial arts. Professor Malachias has been involved in athletics and martial arts from a young age, beginning with Judo at the age of 4 and then transitioning to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at 17.

Under the leadership of Professor Malachias, Gracie Barra River Oaks has grown and expanded to a new, larger 10,000 sqft location in 2016. The academy offers a wide range of training programs to suit students of all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.

One of Professor Malachias greatest achievements is his success as a black belt competitor in the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) competitions. He has won multiple championships and medals, including the Asian Championship in 2006, American National Championship in 2004, 2005, and 2008, and Pan American Championship Silver Medal in 2010, among others. He is also the 2022 IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship Open Gold Medalist.

Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Professor Malachias is committed to continuously improving his teaching skills and his own knowledge and skill in Jiu Jitsu. He is a certified IBJJF referee and has served as a referee in countless IBJJF tournaments, including some widely watched finals.

At Gracie Barra River Oaks, students have access to over 700 Gracie Barra Schools worldwide, professional-quality Jiu-Jitsu gear, and online resources to further their training. The academy promotes a holistic perspective to Jiu-Jitsu, including physical and mental wellness. All GB Schools are supervised by a Gracie Barra certified instructor, who supports students and helps each one achieve their potential through challenging training programs. Each class at Gracie Barra River Oaks is customized to offer maximum benefit for the students in attendance.

In summary, Gracie Barra River Oaks is a world-class martial arts academy with a strong commitment to excellence and dedication to Jiu-Jitsu. With Professor Ulpiano Malachias at the helm, students can expect top-notch training and support in their journey to becoming skilled practitioners of Jiu Jitsu and mixed martial arts.

Gracie Barra River Oaks: Effective martial arts programs for kids of all ages!