FDI works with World Taekwondo (WT) – the International Federation governing the sport of Taekwondo and  a member of the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations as well as the International Paralympic Committee – to improve and promote oral hygiene and prevent dental injuries to protect the health and safety of athletes.

Poor oral health can severely impact athletic performance. People who regularly participate in sports are more likely to suffer from dental conditions such as erosion and dental caries (tooth decay), xerostomia (dry mouth) and trauma. Maintaining good oral health helps to improve performance and helps to prevent injuries, for example by using a mouthguard during contact sports.

FDI’s partnership with WT involves developing oral health education programmes and more specific guidelines and medical rules for sports mouthguards, as well as conducting research projects that will help achieve meaningful injury and illness prevention.