Mouthguards are an important part of any athlete’s protective gear. But when it comes to braces, many people wonder if they can still wear a mouthguard. The answer is yes! In fact, wearing a mouthguard with braces is recommended by orthodontists to help protect the teeth and gums from damage caused by contact sports or falls. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of wearing a mouthguard with braces and provide tips on how to properly fit and care for your custom-made mouthguard.Wearing a mouthguard with braces can provide numerous benefits. Mouthguards are designed to protect teeth and gums from damage caused by contact sports or other activities. They also help to prevent the braces from being damaged as well. Additionally, mouthguards reduce the risk of chipping or breaking teeth, and they can also help to prevent lip and cheek injuries that can be caused by the brackets and wires of braces. Furthermore, they can provide cushioning for the tongue if it is rubbing against the brackets. Wearing a mouthguard with braces also helps to reduce the risk of serious injuries such as concussion or jaw dislocation that may occur during contact sports or activities.
What Types Of Mouthguards Are Available For Braces?
Mouthguards are an important part of oral health care, especially for those with braces. There are different types of mouthguards available for braces, each offering different levels of protection against oral injuries. The most common types of mouthguards for braces include custom-fitted mouthguards, over-the-counter boil-and-bite mouthguards, and stock mouthguards.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most expensive option but also provide the highest level of protection. These are specifically designed to fit your particular needs and can be made out of a variety of materials such as rubber or acrylic. Custom-fitted mouthguards are often recommended by orthodontists as they provide the best fit and the most comfortable wear.
Over-the-counter boil-and-bite mouthguards provide a more affordable option than custom fitted guards. These are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when heated up in boiling water, allowing you to customize the fit to your teeth and gums. Boil-and-bite guards offer good protection but may not be as comfortable or fit as well as custom fitted guards.
Stock mouthguards offer the least expensive option and can be purchased at most sporting goods stores. They come preformed in various sizes and offer some protection, but may be uncomfortable or not fit properly depending on the size and shape of your teeth and gums.
No matter which type of guard you choose, it’s important to make sure it fits properly and is comfortable when wearing it for extended periods of time. Wearing a properly fitting guard can help protect your teeth from any damage caused by grinding your teeth or chewing on objects while wearing braces.
How Do You Fit A Mouthguard For Braces?
Mouthguards are essential for people who wear braces to protect their teeth and gums from injury. Fitting a mouthguard for braces is not difficult, but it does require some special steps. First, make sure you have the correct size and type of mouthguard for your braces. Next, you will need to heat the mouthguard so that it is soft enough to mold around your teeth and braces. Place the heated mouthguard in your mouth and bite down on it firmly while using your fingers to press the material against your teeth and brackets. Once the material is secure, run cold water over the guard to harden it into place. Allow the guard to cool before removing it from your mouth so that it will maintain its shape. If needed, trim away any excess material with scissors or a knife. Finally, give the guard a final check for fit and comfort before use. With these easy steps, you can make sure that your mouthguard fits correctly around your braces for maximum protection.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Wearing A Mouthguard With Braces?
Although wearing a mouthguard when playing sports is highly recommended for anyone with braces, there are some potential disadvantages to consider. One of the most common complaints about wearing a mouthguard with braces is that it may be uncomfortable or even painful. The mouthguard can rub against the brackets and wires of the braces, which can cause irritation. Additionally, if the mouthguard does not fit properly, it can cause difficulty speaking or breathing. Another disadvantage of wearing a mouthguard with braces is that it can be difficult to keep clean. Food and bacteria can get trapped in between the braces and the guard, which can lead to plaque buildup and an increased risk of dental decay.
In most cases, however, these potential disadvantages should not outweigh the benefits of wearing a properly fitted mouthguard with your braces. A good quality custom-fitted guard will provide better protection than an off-the-shelf option and ensure that you have an effective barrier between your teeth and any impacts during sports activities.
Wearing a Mouthguard With Braces
Wearing a mouthguard with braces is an important part of protecting your teeth and ensuring the best outcome for your orthodontic treatment. Mouthguards are designed to cushion the impact of teeth grinding, help prevent damage from sports-related injuries, and protect against damage to the soft tissues in your mouth. When combined with braces, they provide additional protection and support during orthodontic treatment.
Determining How Long To Wear A Mouthguard
The length of time you should wear a mouthguard with braces will depend on the type of activity you are participating in and the severity of your orthodontic condition. Generally speaking, most people should wear their mouthguard for at least two hours per day. This timeframe allows for adequate protection against potential injury or damage to your mouth, while also allowing for proper cleaning of the mouthguard itself.
It’s important to consult with your orthodontist before beginning any type of activity that may put your teeth at risk. Your orthodontist may recommend that you wear a mouthguard while participating in certain activities that could potentially cause injury or damage to your teeth or braces.
Cleaning Your Mouthguard
Regardless of how long you choose to wear it, it’s important to keep your mouthguard clean to prevent bacteria from building up on it. To clean it, simply rinse it off in warm water after each use and allow it to air dry before storing it away. Make sure to replace your mouthguard every three months or as directed by your orthodontist.
If you’re not sure how long you should be wearing a mouthguard with braces, always consult with your orthodontist before beginning any type of activity that could potentially put your teeth at risk. They can help determine an appropriate amount of time for wearing a mouthguard based on the severity of your condition and the activity level involved.
Comfort
When looking for a mouthguard for braces, comfort should be your top priority. A good mouthguard should fit snugly and comfortably around your teeth and gums without causing any irritation or discomfort. It should also be made of a high-quality material that is breathable, durable, and flexible so that it can easily move with your jaw as you speak or chew. If the mouthguard is too tight or too loose, it won’t provide the necessary protection.
Durability
Another important factor to consider when choosing a mouthguard for braces is its durability. Look for one that is made from a material that can withstand regular wear and tear without breaking down or becoming damaged. It should also have a sturdy construction so that it doesn’t become loose or ill-fitting over time. Lastly, make sure to choose one that is designed specifically for use with braces so that it provides an extra layer of protection against potential damage caused by the wires and brackets.
Custom Fit
For maximum protection, you should look for a mouthguard that has been custom-fitted to your mouth. This type of guard will provide the best fit and ensure that your teeth are properly protected during activities such as sports or recreational activities. Custom-fitted guards are also often more comfortable than generic guards since they are made to perfectly fit your unique dental structure. However, they may be more expensive than generic guards.
Cleanliness
Lastly, you should look for a mouthguard that is easy to keep clean and hygienic. Look for one with removable parts so that you can easily clean all areas of the guard with warm water and mild soap after each use. You should also make sure to replace your guard regularly according to manufacturer’s instructions in order to ensure optimal protection and hygiene at all times.
Can You Wear Any Type Of Mouthguard With Braces?
Yes, you can wear any type of mouthguard with braces. It is important to make sure that your mouthguard fits correctly, as this will help to protect your teeth and gums. If the mouthguard is too loose or too tight, it could cause discomfort and even damage to your braces or teeth. When selecting a mouthguard for braces, look for one that is designed specifically for use with them.
It is best to purchase a mouthguard that has been professionally made by a dentist or orthodontist. This ensures that the guard fits properly and is made of quality materials. In addition, these guards are often tested for safety and durability before being sold.
Another option is an over-the-counter mouthguard that fits over the braces and provides protection against contact sports injuries. These guards are typically less expensive than custom-made guards but may not be as comfortable or protective as one made specifically for your braces.
It is important to keep in mind that no matter what type of mouthguard you choose, it should be washed regularly with warm water and soap to remove bacteria and plaque buildup. Additionally, make sure the guard fits properly before each use. Improperly fitting mouthguards can cause discomfort or even damage to your teeth and gums if not worn correctly.
If you have any questions about which type of mouthguard is best for you while wearing braces, consult your dentist or orthodontist for advice on which type would work best for you.
Caring for Your Mouthguard with Braces
Caring for a mouthguard when you have braces can be tricky. You should clean your mouthguard regularly to prevent bacteria from building up, as well as to keep it in good condition. Before and after each use, rinse your mouthguard with cold water and use a soft toothbrush and mild soap to brush away any debris or food particles that might be stuck on the guard. After brushing, rinse the mouthguard again with cold water before storing it in a cool, dry place.
It’s also important to inspect your mouthguard for any signs of damage or wear and tear before each use. If it looks worn or damaged, it’s best to replace it with a new one so that you can protect your teeth and gums from injury while wearing braces.
You should also make sure that your mouthguard fits properly when you have braces. If the fit isn’t snug enough, you may experience discomfort while wearing it, or may even suffer an injury from the guard itself. Take your time to mold the guard carefully so that it fits securely and comfortably over your teeth and braces.
Finally, if you want to keep your mouthguard looking its best for longer, consider investing in an antibacterial case for storage purposes. This will help keep bacteria at bay and will help keep the guard clean and hygienic between uses.
With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your mouthguard is up to the task of protecting your teeth and gums while wearing braces!
Conclusion
Wearing a mouthguard with braces is an effective way to protect your teeth and gums from injury. It can also help prevent any damage that may occur from the pressure exerted by the braces on your teeth. The type of mouthguard you choose should be based on personal preference and the type of activity you are participating in. If you are unsure, consulting with your orthodontist or dentist is recommended.
Overall, wearing a mouthguard with braces can help reduce the risk of oral injury and provide additional protection for your teeth and gums while participating in sports or other activities.
It’s important to make sure that your mouthguard fits properly and securely over your teeth and braces to ensure maximum effectiveness. If you have any questions about choosing or wearing a mouthguard with braces, it is best to consult with your orthodontist or dentist for advice.
