Yes, you can and should wear a mouthguard while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Standard mouthguards are not suitable because they fit snugly against the teeth, which interferes with the brackets and wires of braces. Specialized orthodontic mouthguards are engineered to protect the teeth, the hardware, and the soft tissues of the mouth. Using this protective equipment is essential for anyone participating in activities that carry a risk of facial impact, safeguarding your smile and keeping your treatment progressing smoothly.
Essential Types of Orthodontic Mouthguards
Mouthguards designed specifically for braces differ significantly from conventional ones, primarily in their structure and material composition. The most important design feature is the presence of a channel that creates space between the material and the orthodontic hardware. This space accommodates the brackets and wires without dislodging them, and it also allows for the gradual movement of the teeth throughout the treatment period.
The most accessible option for many patients is the specialized “boil-and-bite” mouthguard made for orthodontics. These guards use a thermoplastic material that softens when heated, allowing the wearer to bite down and mold the guard around the brackets and teeth. Their popularity stems from their ability to be remolded multiple times as the teeth shift during the course of treatment, making them a cost-effective choice for a changing mouth.
Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the highest degree of protection and comfort, as they are created from an impression taken by an orthodontist. These guards feature a precise fit that secures the appliance and minimizes bulk, improving the wearer’s ability to breathe and speak clearly. However, their rigid nature means they may require more frequent replacement than remoldable versions to accommodate significant tooth movement. Pre-formed stock mouthguards are the least effective, offering minimal protection and comfort since they are not molded to the individual anatomy and cannot properly accommodate the braces.
Specific Risks of Impact While Wearing Braces
Wearing a mouthguard is important because the orthodontic hardware itself creates unique hazards upon impact. A sudden blow to the mouth when wearing braces dramatically increases the risk of damage to both the oral tissues and the dental appliances. The sharp edges of metal or ceramic brackets and wires can act like cutting instruments when the soft tissues of the mouth are forcefully pressed against them.
This can result in lacerations to the inner surfaces of the lips, cheeks, and gums, leading to painful sores that delay healing. Beyond soft tissue damage, the braces themselves are vulnerable to impact forces. A blow can cause brackets to break off or bend the archwires, immediately interrupting the planned force system of the treatment.
Repairing damaged hardware requires unscheduled visits to the orthodontist, which can prolong the alignment process. The force of the impact can also be transmitted through the braces to the teeth, increasing the risk of direct dental trauma. This trauma can range from chipped or fractured teeth to serious issues like root damage or displacement of the tooth root within the jawbone.
Maintaining and Updating Your Guard During Treatment
The continuous movement of teeth during orthodontic treatment means that your mouthguard requires diligent, ongoing management to remain effective. Because the dental arch is constantly changing shape, the guard’s fit must be periodically checked for looseness or discomfort. For boil-and-bite guards, this usually means remolding the material to the new position of the teeth after a significant adjustment or every few months.
Even with the best care, a mouthguard will not last the entire duration of treatment and should generally be replaced every six months or at the beginning of a new sports season. Consistent maintenance is also necessary to keep the guard hygienic and structurally sound. After each use, the mouthguard should be cleaned with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or a non-abrasive toothpaste.
Avoid hot water during cleaning and storage, as high temperatures can warp the thermoplastic material and ruin the fit. When not in use, the mouthguard must be stored in a perforated, ventilated container, allowing air circulation and preventing moisture accumulation that fosters bacterial growth. Regular inspection for tears, holes, or thinning of the material is necessary, as any sign of wear compromises the guard’s ability to absorb shock and requires replacement.