CAN MOUTH GUARDS IMPROVE PERFORMANCE?

Hey, it's Marco! "There is research to support improved breathing mechanics and reduced jaw fatigue,” said Fabio Comana, an exercise physiologist with the American Council on Exercise. “Depending on how you look at it, there is some truth to the claims." (His words, not mine...) Hmm, think I'll try this the next time I'm at the track! So, what's being said? Dentists say these high-end mouth guards can open up the airways, prevent teeth-clenching and align the jaw. Being able to take in more air while exercising has obvious benefits — more oxygen for working muscles — while a relaxed jaw can decrease stress and help an athlete’s body function more efficiently. Unlike regular mouth guards, which are available off the shelf and at modest prices, performance mouthpieces cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars and must be custom-fitted by a dentist. Ordinary mouth guards are usually dropped in boiling water and fitted to the wearer’s teeth to protect against injury. With performance mouth guards, the idea is to reposition the jaw, anywhere from a few millimeters to a quarter of an inch sideways. Ok, while I'm certainly no expert and will never claim to be, here's what makes sense to me: Your jaw position is related to head position and head posture is related to body posture. Because your brain spends energy on balance, any amount of energy directed away from aligning the teeth or your head could certainly be used on other activities... (I learned this from the great Jen Sinkler!)

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