Satisfaction with Labial Reinforcement of Custom-Made Mouthguards Among a Cohort of Rugby Union Players: A Randomized Crossover Trial.

The article focuses on a randomized crossover trial assessing satisfaction and preference among rugby union players for custom-made mouthguards with and without labial reinforcement, which involves a 0.75-mm polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PET-G) insert in the anterior labial region. Twenty-two players tested both conventional (Type A) and labial reinforced (Type B) mouthguards over four weeks, rating discomfort, functional interference, protection, and overall satisfaction. Results showed no significant differences between the two types in any measured outcome, with preferences nearly evenly split and no factors predicting mouthguard choice. The study concludes that labial reinforcement does not affect player satisfaction, perceived comfort, or protection, suggesting both designs are similarly acceptable for rugby players.