Alright, now let’s talk about mouthguards and them NHL players. Some folks think NHL players gotta wear ’em, like it’s some rule, but truth is, they don’t have to. NHL don’t mandate mouthguards for players, meaning it’s up to each player whether they wear one or not. Now, most of ’em – about 90% they say – do wear ’em, even though they don’t gotta. That means there’s still a small bunch who think they don’t need ’em, or maybe they just feel it’s more comfortable without.
So why bother with a mouthguard if you don’t have to? Well, them mouthguards do a heap of protecting. They’re not just for looks. A good mouthguard protects teeth and can stop nasty injuries like busted lips or cracked jaws. Imagine a puck flyin’ at ya or gettin’ an elbow in the mouth – a mouthguard’s like a cushion for them teeth and gums. Even helps with reducing chances of a concussion, some say. So, for those fellas who wear ’em, it’s mostly about stayin’ safe out there.
Funny thing is, while the NHL doesn’t require it, they do “strongly recommend” mouthguards to players. That means, the league says, “Hey, it’s a good idea to wear this,” but they ain’t forcing no one. The NHL lets each team handle the mouthguard situation, so a player can get a custom-made one if they want. Usually, they’re made right at some lab near the team, not like those cheap boil-and-bite ones you’d pick up at a regular store. These custom ones fit just right, make it easier to breathe and talk, and give better protection.
But here’s somethin’ else – while the NHL is kinda relaxed about mouthguards, they’ve gotten real serious about other gear. Helmets and visors are now required, and every player must wear a helmet during games. That rule’s been around a while, and they made visors mandatory too, at least for new players joinin’ the league. The visor helps keep pucks and sticks outta players’ faces. Mouthguard, though? Still just a choice.
Now, some folks wonder why all players don’t just wear the dang mouthguards if they’re so useful. Well, some of these players, they say mouthguards make it harder to breathe or talk on the ice, especially if it don’t fit quite right. With the custom-made ones, though, that’s not as much of an issue. The tech’s come a long way, and now there are mouthguards that fit like a glove and don’t feel like a big hunk of rubber in your mouth. But, still, not every player’s convinced, and they don’t all choose to wear ’em.
There’s another reason why mouthguards are a smart idea. Dental injuries are pricey to fix. Knock out a tooth or two, and you’re looking at a big ol’ dentist bill. Mouthguards are cheap by comparison, so most players see it as a good trade-off. Also, some leagues outside the NHL make mouthguards mandatory for all players – doesn’t matter if they’re pros or youngsters. So it’s kinda surprising that the NHL hasn’t gone all the way with a mouthguard rule too.
All said and done, each player gets to choose for themselves. You got the NHL recommendin’ ’em, but no one’s making it a rule. Some say it’s only a matter of time before the league makes mouthguards mandatory, just like they did with helmets and visors. Till then, most players’ll likely keep on wearin’ ’em for the extra safety, but a few will go without, taking their chances on that ice.
Tags：mouthguards, NHL, hockey safety, dental protection, concussions, protective gear
