why does raonic wear a mouthguard

Why Does Raonic Wear a Mouthguard?

When watching Milos Raonic play tennis, one might notice that he wears a mouthguard during matches. This is a common sight among athletes in contact sports, but why would a tennis player need one? Let’s explore the reasons why Raonic wears a mouthguard.

Protecting Teeth and Jaw

One of the most obvious reasons why Raonic wears a mouthguard is to protect his teeth and jaw from injury. Tennis is a sport that requires a lot of movement and quick reflexes, and players are often at risk of getting hit by the ball or colliding with each other. A mouthguard can help absorb the impact of a blow to the face and prevent dental injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, as well as reduce the risk of jaw fractures.

Additionally, Raonic has had a history of dental issues, including a root canal procedure and a tooth extraction. Wearing a mouthguard can help prevent further damage to his teeth and ensure that he can continue to play without discomfort.

Improving Performance

Another reason why Raonic wears a mouthguard is to improve his performance on the court. Studies have shown that wearing a mouthguard can increase an athlete’s strength, speed, and endurance by improving their oxygen intake and reducing muscle tension in the jaw and neck. This can be especially beneficial for tennis players, who need to be able to move quickly and maintain their stamina throughout a match.

In addition, a mouthguard can help improve a player’s focus and concentration by reducing distractions such as clenching or grinding their teeth. This can help Raonic stay mentally sharp and perform at his best during matches.

Preventing Concussions

While tennis is not a contact sport, players can still be at risk of getting concussions from falls or collisions. Wearing a mouthguard can help reduce the risk of concussion by absorbing some of the impact of a blow to the head. In addition, a mouthguard can help stabilize the head and neck during a fall, which can also help prevent concussion.

Compliance with Regulations

Finally, Raonic may wear a mouthguard simply to comply with regulations set by the International Tennis Federation (ITF). The ITF requires that players wear clothing and equipment that is in line with their regulations, which includes mouthguards for certain tournaments. Raonic may wear a mouthguard to avoid any penalties or disqualifications for non-compliance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several reasons why Milos Raonic wears a mouthguard during tennis matches. It helps protect his teeth and jaw from injury, improve his performance on the court, prevent concussions, and comply with regulations set by the ITF. Regardless of the reason, wearing a mouthguard is an important safety measure for athletes in any sport.