Percentage Of Hockey Players With Missing Teeth
It's no secret that hockey is one of the most aggressive and physical sports. With players skating at high speeds, checking and fighting for the puck, it's not uncommon to see players getting injured during the game. One of the most distinctive injuries, however, is the missing teeth. While missing teeth may be considered part of the game, it's essential to understand the percentage of hockey players with missing teeth.
The History Of Missing Teeth In Hockey
Missing teeth in hockey have been around for decades. In the early days of professional hockey, players didn't wear helmets or any form of facial protection. As a result, they were more prone to injuries, including facial injuries that resulted in missing teeth. Even today, while players in the NHL are required to wear a helmet, few players wear some form of facial protection.
It wasn't until the 1970s that NHL players started to wear helmets, but there was no mandatory rule for players to wear them. It wasn't until 1979 that the league made it mandatory for players to wear helmets, which included full face shields. However, the full-face shield was not required, and many players opted to wear visors instead. Today, only a small percentage of players wear a full-face shield.
The Percentage Of Hockey Players With Missing Teeth
According to a study conducted by the American Dental Association, 10% of NHL players wear dentures or some form of dental prosthesis. The study also revealed that 20% of NHL players have had at least one tooth knocked out during their career. While these numbers may seem high, they are relatively low when compared to other contact sports.
The study also revealed that missing teeth are more prevalent in older NHL players. For instance, players who have played for more than ten years in the league are more likely to have missing teeth than players who have played for only a few years. This is not surprising, given the aggressive nature of the sport and the number of injuries that players are likely to sustain.
Players Who Have Lost The Most Teeth
Over the years, several NHL players have lost a significant number of teeth during their careers. One of the most famous cases is Bobby Clarke, the former Philadelphia Flyers captain. Clarke lost his two front teeth during a game against the New York Rangers. Despite losing his teeth, Clarke continued to play and is considered one of the best NHL players in history.
Another player who lost a significant number of teeth is Keith Tkachuk, a former NHL forward. Tkachuk lost an incredible 10 teeth during his career, but he continued to play and was known for his toughness on the ice.
Preventing Tooth Loss In Hockey
While missing teeth may be considered part of the game, there are ways to prevent tooth loss in hockey. The most effective way is to wear a mouthguard. According to the American Dental Association, wearing a mouthguard can reduce the risk of dental injuries by up to 60%. A mouthguard is a simple and effective way to protect your teeth during a game.
Another way to prevent tooth loss is to wear a face shield. While it's not mandatory for players to wear a face shield, it's highly recommended. A face shield can protect your face from high-stick injuries, slashing, and other facial injuries that could result in missing teeth.
Conclusion
Missing teeth in hockey are part of the game. While the percentage of players with missing teeth may be higher than other sports, it's not surprising given the aggressive nature of the game. However, there are ways to prevent tooth loss, such as wearing a mouthguard and face shield. By taking these precautions, players can reduce their risk of dental injuries and enjoy a long, successful career in hockey.
