Oral, maxillofacial and general injuries in gymnasts

It is estimated that between 4 and 18 per cent of all sports injuries involve the maxillofacial region. Among the various sporting activities, gymnastics has been rated as a high-injury risk discipline. The aim of this study was to document the extent and type of oral, maxillofacial and general injuries among gymnasts. The majority of injuries occurred during training and the severity of the injury was strongly associated with the skill level of the gymnast; in other words, advanced level gymnasts suffered more serious injuries, e.g. concussion and direct orofacial injuries. However, 7 per cent had experienced damage to the 'hard' tissues of the mouth during the past 12 months. No gymnast interviewed wore a mouth guard and their knowledge of dental first aid was poor. The study highlights the clear need for a structured health promotion initiative, aimed at those participating in and coaching gymnastics.