why does milos raonic wear a mouthguard

Why Does Milos Raonic Wear a Mouthguard?

Milos Raonic is a professional tennis player from Canada who is known for his powerful serve and aggressive playing style. One thing that many people have noticed about Raonic is that he wears a mouthguard while he plays. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Raonic wears a mouthguard and the benefits that it provides him on the court.

Protecting Teeth and Jaw

One of the main reasons that athletes wear mouthguards is to protect their teeth and jaw from impact during physical activity. In tennis, players often hit the ball at high speeds, and a stray ball or racket can easily cause injury to the mouth. By wearing a mouthguard, Raonic can reduce the risk of dental injuries and jaw fractures, which can be painful and require extensive dental work.

Additionally, mouthguards can help prevent concussions, which can occur when the head and brain experience sudden impact. While tennis is not typically associated with concussions, they can still occur if a player falls or collides with another player or object on the court. By wearing a mouthguard, Raonic can reduce the risk of these types of injuries and stay safe while playing.

Improving Breathing

Another benefit of wearing a mouthguard is that it can improve breathing during physical activity. When athletes breathe through their mouths, they are more likely to experience dry mouth, which can make it difficult to swallow and speak. A mouthguard can help keep the mouth moist and prevent dryness, which can improve overall breathing and reduce fatigue during long matches.

Additionally, mouthguards can help improve oxygen intake, which is essential for athletic performance. By keeping the mouth open and allowing more air to flow through, a mouthguard can help athletes take in more oxygen and reduce the risk of fatigue and exhaustion.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Wearing a mouthguard can also help reduce stress and anxiety during physical activity. Many athletes experience nervousness and tension before and during matches, which can affect their performance and cause them to clench their teeth and jaw. By wearing a mouthguard, Raonic can reduce the tension in his jaw and prevent teeth grinding, which can help him stay relaxed and focused on the game.

In addition, mouthguards can help reduce the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which is a condition that affects the jaw joint and can cause pain and discomfort. By wearing a mouthguard, Raonic can reduce the stress on his jaw joint and prevent TMJ disorder from developing.

Improving Performance

Finally, wearing a mouthguard can actually improve athletic performance. By reducing the risk of injury, improving breathing, and reducing stress and anxiety, a mouthguard can help athletes stay focused and perform at their best. Additionally, mouthguards can help improve alignment and balance in the jaw, which can improve overall posture and balance on the court.

Overall, there are many reasons why Milos Raonic wears a mouthguard while playing tennis. From protecting his teeth and jaw to improving breathing and reducing stress, a mouthguard provides many benefits that can help him stay safe and perform at his best. If you are an athlete, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect yourself and improve your performance on the court or field.