Why Stephen Curry chews his tooth guard during NBA Games?

Stephen Curry, renowned for his unparalleled 3-point shooting prowess, is a dominant force in the NBA. Throughout his illustrious career, there’s been an item that’s become inseparable from the superstar – his tooth protector.

 

Curry’s affinity for wearing a tooth guard traces back to his college days, and it has since become a distinctive part of his on-court ritual. What sets him apart, however, is the unique way he employs it: frequently holding it to one side of his mouth and chewing on it during breaks in play.

 

In a 2015 interview, Curry shed light on the reason behind his tooth guard usage. It all began with a desire for added protection for his jaw, stemming from a collision with Jon Brick in 2007. The tooth guard, in essence, serves as a safeguard against potential injuries in the heat of the game.

 

While Stephen Curry may find comfort and utility in his tooth guard, those close to him might not share the sentiment. His mother, Sonya, humorously acknowledges her son’s peculiar habits, including biting his nails, picking his nose, and, of course, wearing a tooth protector. Nevertheless, she refrains from advising him to change his ways.

 

From a professional perspective, dental hygienist Cindy Hernandez-Sturrock expressed reservations about Curry’s chewing habit in a 2019 interview with HuffPost. She pointed out that such behavior could compromise the guard’s integrity, potentially diminishing its protective capabilities.

In essence, Stephen Curry’s unconventional habit of chewing on his tooth guard is a testament to the unique rituals and practices that athletes develop to find their optimal performance levels. While it may not be conventional, it’s an integral part of his game that sets him apart on the court.