to summarize the functions of mouthguards:
1) They spread the force of the blow over all the teeth that are covered by the mouthguard.
2) They stop violent contact of the upper & lower teeth.
3) They keep the lips away from the malaligned teeth protecting the lips, the teeth and an orthodontic treatment.
4) They hold the jaws apart:
a) acting as shock absorbers.
b) preventing upward & backward displacement of the condyles in their fossae.
So, they reduce the incidence of concussion from a blow to the chin.
