The National Football League (NFL) mandates the use of intraoral devices designed to protect the teeth and reduce the incidence of orofacial injuries. These devices, commonly known as mouthguards or mouthpieces, are constructed of resilient materials and fitted to cover the upper teeth. Failure to wear one during play results in penalties.
Mandatory use serves to minimize the risk of concussions, dental trauma, and soft tissue lacerations within the oral cavity. Implementing this requirement has significantly contributed to a decrease in dental injuries among players. Prior to the mandatory rule, dental and facial injuries were considerably more prevalent.
