Dental Admissions Test (DAT) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The main purpose of wearing a mouthguard during contact sports is to protect teeth from injury. Mouthguards are specifically designed to absorb and distribute the forces of impact to prevent traumas such as chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. They also help to protect the soft tissues of the mouth, including gums, cheeks, and tongue, from lacerations that can occur during physical contact.

While some might think that a mouthguard could enhance breathing, it primarily covers teeth and could potentially impede airflow if not designed properly. Preventing gum infections is not a primary function of a mouthguard; these infections are generally more related to oral hygiene practices than to protective equipment. Similarly, improving speech is not a purpose of wearing a mouthguard; in fact, wearing one can sometimes affect articulation and clarity of speech temporarily due to the presence of the device in the mouth. Thus, the correct answer focuses on the protective aspect of mouthguards, emphasizing their role in safeguarding the teeth during sports activities.