Using a mouthguard while wearing braces is highly recommended, especially during physical activities involving potential impacts to the face or mouth. This protective dental appliance is made of flexible material that cushions the teeth, gums, and orthodontic hardware during an unexpected blow. The device absorbs and disperses impact forces, making it mandatory for patients with fixed appliances who participate in contact sports.
Why Protection is Essential When Wearing Braces
Wearing braces significantly elevates the risk of severe soft tissue injury upon impact because the metal brackets and wires transform into a cutting hazard. A sudden hit can force the lips or cheeks against the rigid appliance, resulting in painful lacerations and deep cuts inside the mouth. These injuries often require immediate medical attention and can interfere with a patient’s ability to speak or eat.
An impact can also severely compromise the orthodontic treatment itself. Forceful contact can cause brackets to detach, or wires to bend or break, necessitating an emergency visit for repairs that prolong the overall treatment time. The underlying teeth are vulnerable; an impact can result in root fractures, nerve damage, or even tooth loss. Standard mouthguards not designed for braces are not recommended, as they can be ill-fitting and may damage the appliance or restrict necessary tooth movement.
Specific Mouthguard Options for Orthodontic Patients
Choosing the correct mouthguard is crucial when you have braces, as it must accommodate the brackets and the continuous movement of your teeth.
Stock Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear, making them the least expensive option. However, they offer minimal protection and are often too bulky or uncomfortable to wear over fixed appliances. They are typically not recommended because they do not provide a secure fit over the braces.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
A better option is the orthodontic-specific boil-and-bite mouthguard, which is designed to be heated in water and then molded to the teeth and braces. These guards are often made from flexible silicone or a re-moldable material, allowing them to be adjusted as the teeth shift throughout treatment. The ability to re-mold the guard makes it a practical choice during the active phase of orthodontic treatment.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
Custom-fitted orthodontic mouthguards, created by an orthodontist from a precise impression, offer the highest level of protection, comfort, and fit. This option provides a personalized cushion that perfectly covers the braces and teeth. However, because the teeth are constantly moving, a custom-fitted guard may need to be replaced or modified more frequently than a standard one to maintain its protective function.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Comfort
For a mouthguard to be effective with braces, it must have enough space to fit over the brackets without placing excessive pressure on the appliance. The guard should provide a barrier between the braces and the inner surfaces of the lips and cheeks to prevent lacerations upon impact. The fit for an orthodontic patient should be slightly looser than a standard guard to allow for the movement of the teeth.
The mouthguard should cover all teeth and the entire orthodontic appliance on one arch, typically the upper arch, for comprehensive protection. Because teeth are continually being repositioned, the fit must be checked regularly, particularly after a major wire change or adjustment appointment. If using a re-moldable type, it may need to be reheated and reshaped to conform to the new tooth positions.
Care and Replacement Guidelines
Proper maintenance of an orthodontic mouthguard is necessary to ensure its longevity and hygiene. After each use, the mouthguard should be gently scrubbed with a toothbrush and mild soap or lukewarm water to remove debris and prevent bacterial buildup. Avoid using hot water, as the high temperature can cause the thermoplastic material to warp or deform, ruining the custom fit.
When not in use, the mouthguard should be stored in a sturdy, ventilated case to protect it from damage and allow it to air-dry. Orthodontic mouthguards require more frequent replacement than standard ones due to the ongoing changes in the mouth. Replace the guard if it shows signs of wear, such as cracks or tears, or if it no longer fits correctly following a significant adjustment.