Some dentists aren’t just pushing mouth guards to protect athletes’ teeth – they claim that they can improve performance. Specifically, the Pure Power mouth guard is supposed to open airways by allowing the jaw and neck muscles to fully relax.
The device was developed by Dr. Anil Makkar after attending classes at LVI, and it is described by some as similar to the mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliances (MORAs) that were popular some 25 years ago. Though there’s no hard evidence to support PPM’s superiority, a number of athletes swear by it.
“The Pure Power Mouthguard is 40 years of proven neuromuscular dentistry research,” reads the product’s website. “Better balance, longer endurance, improved strength, more power, and expanded range.” The site claims the device can make you run faster, lift heavier weights, and lower your golf handicap.