Gumshield warning for players

The Irish Dentistry Association’s Dr Maurice Quirke claims not using a gumshield in Gaelic football is the equivalent of not wearing a helmet on a motorbike.

In welcoming the mandatory wearing of mouthguards in all levels of Gaelic football games and training by 2014, the IDA have urged all players, parents and coaches to fully back the initiative.

Aware of the opposition to it by senior inter-county Gaelic footballers on Twitter, Dr Quirke emphasised the responsibility they have to set an example.

“Anybody who is playing contact sports without a mouth guard is being irresponsible,” said Quirke. “It’s like going on a motorbike without a helmet.

“I would urge all players to protect their teeth from injury by using a gumshield immediately. Players are important role models for children so it is particularly important that they back the move.”