For athletes and orthodontic patients, maintaining oral health is essential. Whether you’re on the field, court, or track, physical activities can pose significant risks to your oral health—especially if you wear braces.
A mouth guard can be a crucial tool in protecting your teeth and orthodontic appliances. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about wearing a mouth guard with braces.
The Benefits of Wearing a Mouth Guard with Braces
Aside from protecting your teeth against impact, mouth guards have other benefits when worn with braces.
Here are some of the advantages of wearing a mouth guard:
- Protection Against Sports-Related Dental Injuries: Mouth guards provide a buffer against impacts to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and lacerations to the cheeks, lips, and tongue.
- Minimization of Damage to Braces and Oral Soft Tissues: A mouth guard can prevent the brackets and wires of your braces from causing injury to the inside of your mouth.
- Enhanced Comfort During Play: Custom-fitted mouth guards are designed to fit snugly over your braces, allowing you to focus on your game without discomfort.
Types of Mouth Guards for Braces
Not all mouth guards are created equal. While there are many types available in the market, not all of them are suitable for individuals with braces.
Here are three types of mouth guards that are safe and effective for use with braces:
- Stock Mouth Guards: These are pre-made, inexpensive options that can be found at most sporting goods stores. However, they offer little to no protection for individuals with braces as they do not mold well to teeth.
- Mouth-Forming or “Boil-and-Bite” Mouth Guards: These mouth guards can be softened in boiling water and then formed over the teeth by biting down on them. While this option offers slightly better protection than stock mouth guards, they may not fit well over braces and can cause discomfort.
- Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards: These are the most effective type of mouth guard for individuals with braces. Custom-fitted mouth guards are created by taking impressions of your teeth and braces to ensure a perfect fit, providing optimal protection and comfort during physical activities.
- Specialized Mouth Guards Designed for Braces Wearers: These are available over-the-counter and are specifically designed to accommodate braces. While not as custom as those made by an orthodontist, they still offer good protection.
How to Care for Your Mouth Guard
Proper maintenance of your mouth guard is crucial for both hygiene and longevity, especially when you’re dealing with braces.
After each use, be sure to rinse the mouth guard thoroughly with cool water. This helps remove any debris and bacteria that may have accumulated during use. Avoid washing it with hot water as the heat can warp the material.
For a more thorough clean, use a mild soap or non-alcoholic mouth rinse, gently scrubbing it with a soft toothbrush. Ensuring that your mouth guard is clean not only protects your oral health but also helps maintain the structure of the guard itself.
Storing Your Mouth Guard
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s important to store your mouth guard properly. Keep it in a ventilated container to allow it to dry completely, minimizing bacterial growth.
Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures that could deform the shape. Regularly inspect the mouth guard for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or loose areas, which could compromise its protective capabilities.
When to Replace Your Mouth Guard
As with any oral appliance, mouth guards have a limited lifespan. Over time, they can wear down and become less effective in protecting your teeth and braces.
Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your mouth guard:
- Visible Wear and Tear: If you notice any cracks or tears in the material of your mouth guard, it’s time for a replacement.
- Loose Fit: As your braces shift and change over time, so will the fit of your mouth guard. If it no longer fits snugly over your teeth and appliances, consider getting a new one.
- Unpleasant Smell or Taste: Regular cleaning can help prevent this, but if your mouth guard has an unpleasant odor or taste even after cleaning, it may be time for a replacement.
Dr. Fowler’s Approach to Orthodontic Care
Here at Fowler Orthodontics, patient care goes beyond just straightening teeth. Our patient-centric approach ensures that everyone receives the highest quality care tailored to their needs.
From traditional metal braces to Invisalign, we offer a range of orthodontic solutions to meet individual preferences and requirements.
We also utilize advanced digital impressions to minimize discomfort and improve treatment accuracy.
Lastly, with non-interest payment options and family discounts, we make orthodontic care accessible for everyone.
Safeguarding Your Smile with the Right Protection
Wearing a mouth guard with braces is a smart decision for athletes and orthodontic patients. It provides essential protection, helps maintain oral health, and ensures that your braces continue to do their job effectively. At Fowler Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile while keeping your teeth safe during sports activities.
Are you interested in learning more about protecting your smile? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fowler and explore how our comprehensive orthodontic care can benefit you. Protect your smile today and play safe!
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