Teeth Lost By Hockey Players Crossword
If you're a hockey fan, you're probably familiar with the image of a player stepping off the ice with a bloody mouth and a few missing teeth. While this may seem like a common occurrence in the sport, it's actually more of a stereotype than a reality. However, it's true that hockey players are at a higher risk of losing their teeth than athletes in many other sports. In this article, we'll take a closer look at why hockey players lose their teeth, what they do to protect them, and why some players choose to keep playing without their natural teeth.
Why Do Hockey Players Lose Their Teeth?
The primary reason hockey players lose their teeth is due to the physical nature of the sport. Hockey is a contact sport that involves a lot of body checking, stick checking, and collisions on the ice. When a player takes a hit, their mouth and teeth can be jolted or struck by a stick, puck, or another player's body. This can result in broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, or other dental injuries.
Many players also choose not to wear full face cages or shields, which leaves their teeth more exposed to injury. While these protective measures can help prevent dental injuries, some players feel that they impair their vision or breathing and prefer to take the risk.
How Do Hockey Players Protect Their Teeth?
Despite the risks, most hockey players take steps to protect their teeth. One of the most common methods is wearing a mouthguard. A mouthguard is a device that is worn in the mouth to help cushion blows to the teeth and jaw. It can be custom-fitted to a player's mouth for maximum protection.
Some players also choose to wear full face cages or shields, which provide added protection to the teeth and face. However, as mentioned earlier, many players prefer not to wear these devices.
Why Do Some Hockey Players Play Without Their Teeth?
While losing teeth can be painful and embarrassing, some hockey players choose to keep playing without them. There are a few reasons for this:
- It's a badge of honor: Some players see missing teeth as a sign that they are tough and dedicated to the sport. It's a way to show that they have sacrificed their body for the team.
- It's more comfortable: Some players find that playing without teeth is more comfortable than playing with them. They may also feel that their breathing or vision is improved.
- It's expensive to replace them: Replacing missing teeth can be costly, especially if a player doesn't have insurance coverage. Some players may simply not be able to afford it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it's true that hockey players are at a higher risk of losing their teeth than athletes in many other sports, it's not as common as some people might think. However, it's still important for players to take steps to protect their teeth, such as wearing a mouthguard or face cage. And while some players choose to keep playing without their natural teeth, it's important to remember that dental injuries can be serious and should be taken seriously.
