At first glance, the idea of a mouth guard for golf doesn’t make any sense. But I warmed to the idea when I read UnderArmour’s explanation:
The ArmourBite® Mouthpiece’s patented construction pivots the jaw forward to reduce the production of cortisol, a performance-sapping stress hormone. The result is a more open airway that helps increase endurance, and a more balanced jaw that helps improve strength, speed, and reaction time. The perfect combination to unlock the best athlete you can be.
Translation: wearing the guard prevents you from clenching your teeth, which relieves stress and tension.
The more I think about it, the more it sounds like a good idea. I’ve been wearing a mouthguard at night for a year or so and I swear I sleep better while wearing the guard—it reduces jaw clenching and tension.
I just might give this a try. My only concern: will it interfere with cigar smoking?