Gumshields rule likely

GAA chiefs are considering plans to make gumshields compulsory in their games.

Central Council officials have discussed the matter and may introduce new rules and regulations on a phased basis from 2012 onwards. The move is in an effort to curb mounting costs of insurance payouts.

The proposals were last night welcomed by the Irish Dental Association. Figures from the IDA indicate one third of all adult dental injuries are sports-related, with Ireland having one of the highest rates of sports-related oral injuries in the European Union. Endodontist, Dr Pat Cleary, said that the wearing of gumshields is normal practice in many sports and believes that Croke Park chiefs are moving in the right direction.

“The cost to replace one missing front tooth is in the region of €2,500 and that would have to be replaced every ten to 15 years. The cost of a mouthguard is relatively inexpensive when compared to that.

“I know that some players find wearing a mouthguard difficult and have issues with breathing and salivating. Our advice would be to avoid the boil and bite versions of these gumshields and instead go to a dentist and get a properly fitted mouthguard custom made.”

Dr Cleary admitted that the introducion of helmets with face cages had seen a dramatic drop in dental injuries in hurling but there were still a significant number of footballers requiring treatment every year.