Wearing a mouthguard during sports is necessary for everyone, but it is even more important for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces introduce additional risks during contact sports, making mouthguard protection non-negotiable. While people often ask if a standard mouthguard can be molded over braces, generic guards pose a significant challenge when used with orthodontic hardware.
Why Standard Mouthguards Do Not Work With Braces
Traditional boil-and-bite or generic stock mouthguards are incompatible with orthodontic appliances due to their design. Standard mouthguards are made from thermoplastic materials designed to create a tight, form-fitting seal for maximum protection. This tight fit is detrimental to orthodontic treatment because when the guard is heated and pressed against the teeth, the plastic flows around the brackets and wires.
The material can mold so closely around the hardware that removal becomes impossible without damaging the braces. This risks dislodging or bending brackets and wires, requiring emergency repair. A hard blow can transmit force directly to the brackets, potentially causing them to break or shift teeth unintentionally. Brackets also increase the risk of severe soft tissue lacerations if the lips or cheeks are pressed against the sharp edges during impact.
Specialized Orthodontic Mouthguard Options
Mouthguards specifically designed to accommodate braces offer effective protection without interfering with the alignment process. These specialized devices are built with extra space or channels to fit comfortably over the brackets and wires. They are often made from softer, high-grade silicone or pliable materials that provide cushioning and shock absorption.
Pre-Formed Orthodontic Mouthguards
The most accessible option is the pre-formed orthodontic mouthguard, which is a ready-to-wear guard with a larger interior design to fit over braces. These are generally the most affordable but offer the least customized fit.
Modified Boil-and-Bite Guards
Over-the-counter orthodontic brands also offer a modified boil-and-bite option that uses a material designed to be reheated and remolded multiple times as the teeth shift during treatment. These models are engineered to leave enough space around the braces, ensuring the plastic does not lock onto the hardware.
The custom-fitted orthodontic mouthguard remains the gold standard for comfort and protection, provided by a dentist or orthodontist. A precise impression of the teeth and braces is taken to create a guard offering superior retention and shock dispersion. Although these custom options are the most expensive, they are tailored to the individual’s mouth, providing the best protection while allowing for normal speech and breathing.
Consequences of Failing to Protect Braces
Failing to use a protective guard during high-risk activities significantly elevates the chances of severe oral injury. Studies indicate that many dental injuries are sports-related, and braces compound this risk. A forceful impact can cause brackets or wires to break or detach, requiring immediate and costly emergency orthodontic repairs.
Damaged or dislodged hardware can cause painful lacerations of the lips, cheeks, and tongue, potentially necessitating medical attention. Damage to appliances also delays the overall treatment timeline. Broken brackets or bent wires stop intended tooth movement, and the time spent on repairs extends the duration of time in braces. Using a protective guard safeguards the mouth and ensures the orthodontic investment stays on track.