Wearing a mouthguard is not only possible but strongly recommended when you have braces, especially during any activity that carries a risk of facial or oral injury. Orthodontic treatment, while aligning teeth, introduces new vulnerabilities to the mouth that require specific protection. A properly fitted mouthguard acts as a buffer, shielding both the soft tissues of the mouth and the delicate hardware from impact. This simple piece of equipment is a necessary preventative measure to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and safely.
The Necessity of Protection While Wearing Braces
Brackets and wires create sharp, abrasive surfaces inside the mouth that can lacerate the lips, cheeks, or tongue upon sudden impact. Even a minor blow can drive the soft tissue against the metal, resulting in painful and sometimes deep cuts that require medical attention. This immediate risk makes a protective barrier mandatory for athletes undergoing treatment.
Beyond protecting the patient, a mouthguard safeguards the expensive orthodontic appliance. Direct impact can easily break a ceramic or metal bracket off a tooth, requiring an emergency visit to the orthodontist for re-bonding. Wires, which are precisely bent and tuned to guide tooth movement, can also become bent or dislodged by a forceful hit. Damage to the hardware interrupts the treatment timeline, potentially delaying the final result by weeks.
While the mouthguard absorbs and disperses impact energy, its absence could lead to force being concentrated directly onto a tooth or its root. This concentration increases the risk of serious dental injuries, such as root fracture, tooth intrusion, or even bone damage in the jaw. Proper protection minimizes the chance of these severe, long-term complications.
Selecting the Appropriate Orthodontic Mouthguard
Standard stock mouthguards, which are pre-formed and offer a loose fit, are generally unsuitable for use with braces because they provide minimal secure coverage. Similarly, traditional boil-and-bite guards pose a risk because they are designed to mold tightly to the teeth and gums. When used over brackets, this material can inadvertently form a suction-like grip, making removal difficult and potentially pulling off bonded hardware. The tight mold can also impede the necessary, gradual movement of teeth during the orthodontic process.
The most effective choice for individuals with braces is an orthodontic-specific mouthguard. These guards feature specialized channels or open grooves designed to fit over the brackets and wires without pressing tightly against them. This design allows the appliance to function properly, accommodating the movement and realignment of the teeth. The material is often more flexible and forgiving, creating a protective cushion while ensuring easy removal.
A properly designed orthodontic guard ensures that the material rests securely over the hardware while still providing a comfortable fit that does not interfere with breathing or speaking. The fit should be snug enough to stay in place during physical activity but loose enough to prevent undue pressure on the brackets or teeth. Some models use medical-grade silicone or other specialized polymers that remain pliable and resilient over a wider temperature range.
For maximum protection and the highest level of comfort, patients can opt for a custom-fitted mouthguard fabricated by their orthodontist or dentist. This process involves taking a precise impression of the mouth, including the brackets and wires, to create a perfectly contoured guard. While significantly more expensive than over-the-counter options, a custom guard offers superior fit, better impact absorption, and a lower profile. This option is often recommended for athletes participating in high-impact sports where maximum security is desired.
Caring for Your Mouthguard and Braces
The mouthguard can trap food debris and bacteria against the brackets, making hygiene essential. After every use, the mouthguard should be thoroughly cleaned by rinsing it under cool water and gently brushing it with a toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid using hot water, as the heat can permanently warp the guard’s material, compromising its fit and protective qualities. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of plaque and the proliferation of odor-causing microorganisms.
When not in use, the mouthguard must be stored in a ventilated, rigid container to protect it from physical damage and allow it to air dry fully. Do not leave the guard exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures, which can cause the material to degrade or shrink. Because the teeth are continuously moving during treatment, the mouthguard will require periodic replacement or adjustment. It is generally necessary to replace the guard after significant wire changes or when the fit becomes noticeably tight, typically every six to twelve months, to ensure continued effectiveness.