Injuries sustained by users and non-users of gum shields in local rugby union.

Abstract

This study was undertaken because of the high number of orofacial injuries and the complacent attitude of local rugby union players to the wearing of gum shields in spite of encouragement and advice to do so. Amongst non-users there seemed to be an attitude that injuries are inevitable. This apathy and cavalier attitude to unnecessary injury needs to be changed. These injuries can be almost totally avoided