How do I go about getting my state to mandate mouthguards?
Experience has taught that mouthguard mandates are poorly received, difficult to implement, and very unpopular. The unfortunate experience of Minnesota in 1993 is a model that is instructive to us all. If mandates are to be successful, several groups must act in conjunction before the rules are changed. Most often rules are changed without the knowledge of athletes, coaches, and dentists. These rule changes are well meaning attempts to force athletes to do what is good for them. This has not proven to be a successful way to add safety equipment to sports which historically has never used them. Athletes and parents must be educated as to the different types of mouthguards. Most athletes are convinced that mouthguards will not be comfortable, will not allow them to speak, and will not allow for proper breathing. Inexpensive and difficult to fit over the counter mouthguards will serve to reinforce these ideas. Coaches have not proven to be the ally of increased safety requirements. A coac
