The effects of mouthpiece use on gas exchange parameters during steady-state exercise in college-aged men and women

Background. The authors conducted a study to assess the effects of custom-fitted mouthpieces on gas exchange parameters, including voluntary oxygen consumption (VO2), voluntary oxygen consumption per kilogram of body weight (VO2/kg) and voluntary carbon dioxide production (VCO2). Methods. Sixteen physically fit college students aged 18 through 21 years performed two 10-minute treadmill runs (6.5 miles per hour, 0 percent grade) for each of three treatment conditions (mouthpiece, no mouthpiece and nose breathing). The authors assigned the conditions randomly for each participant and for each session. They assessed gas exchange parameters by using a metabolic measurement system. Results. The authors used analysis of variance to compare all variables. They set the significance level at alpha = .05 and used a Tukey post hoc analysis of treatment means to identify differences between groups. The results showed significant improvements (P < .05) in VO2, VO2/kg and VCO2 in the mouthpiece condition. Conclusions. The study findings show that use of a custom-fitted mouthpiece resulted in improved specific gas exchange parameters. The authors are pursuing further studies to explain the mechanisms involved in the improved endurance performance exhibited with mouthpiece use. Clinical Implications. Dental care professionals have an obligation to understand the increasing research evidence in support of mouthpiece use during exercise and athletic activity and to educate their patients.