A mouthguard is a protective dental device that covers the teeth and surrounding tissues, acting as a shield against physical trauma. If you wear braces, wearing a mouthguard is strongly recommended for anyone involved in physical activities. The presence of orthodontic hardware significantly increases the need for this protection for the teeth and the entire mouth. Investing in the right type of mouthguard ensures your orthodontic treatment continues safely.
Why Wearing a Mouthguard is Essential with Braces
Orthodontic appliances introduce specific risks during impact. The brackets and wires create hard, jagged surfaces that can severely lacerate the soft tissues of the mouth upon a blow to the face. A mouthguard cushions the force, preventing the cheeks, lips, and tongue from being cut by the metal hardware. This protection minimizes the risk of painful soft tissue injuries common in contact sports.
The mouthguard also safeguards the orthodontic treatment itself. A direct impact can easily bend the archwires or break brackets off the teeth, causing discomfort and potential poking injuries. Damage to the hardware necessitates an emergency visit for repairs, which can prolong the overall treatment time. By absorbing the shock, the mouthguard helps maintain the integrity of the appliances, keeping tooth movement on schedule.
Selecting the Right Type of Mouthguard
Not all mouthguards are suitable for use with orthodontic appliances, as they must accommodate constant changes in tooth position. Standard stock mouthguards, which are pre-formed and offer little customization, are not recommended for braces wearers. These guards do not fit properly over the brackets and wires, resulting in an uncomfortable fit and minimal protection. Look for products specifically designed for use with orthodontics.
One common option is a boil-and-bite mouthguard, which is heated in water and molded to the teeth. For braces, select a reheatable or orthodontic-specific boil-and-bite guard. These materials are designed to be re-molded multiple times, allowing the wearer to adjust the fit as the teeth shift throughout treatment. While more affordable than custom options, they must be molded carefully to ensure they do not fit too tightly and restrict tooth movement.
Custom-made mouthguards, fabricated by a dental professional from an impression of your teeth, offer the best fit and highest level of protection. However, the shifting nature of teeth with braces means a traditional custom guard may quickly become ill-fitting and require replacement. A practical alternative is the pre-formed, no-mold, orthodontic-specific guard. This guard is made from flexible medical-grade silicone that adapts instantly to the brackets. These guards are often the most convenient choice, providing immediate comfort and allowing for tooth adjustments without molding or boiling.
Practical Tips for Fitting and Care
When fitting a mouthguard over braces, the goal is to achieve a secure fit that completely covers the brackets without applying restrictive pressure. The mouthguard must have enough space to allow for the continuous movement of the teeth during orthodontic treatment. For boil-and-bite types, consult your orthodontist for guidance during molding to prevent an overly tight fit that could inhibit tooth movement. The guard should feel snug enough to stay in place, but comfortable enough that you can breathe easily.
Maintaining the mouthguard’s hygiene is important due to the presence of brackets and wires that can trap debris. Immediately after use, the guard should be thoroughly rinsed with cool water to remove saliva and food particles. For a complete cleaning, gently brush the mouthguard using a soft toothbrush and either a mild soap or a non-alcoholic mouth rinse. Avoid using hot water for cleaning or storage, as excessive heat can warp the thermoplastic material and ruin the customized fit. Store the clean, dry mouthguard in a ventilated case to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.