If you or your child is navigating the journey of braces, you know how important it is to protect those precious pearly whites. A mouthguard—a small device that can make a world of difference for anyone with braces.
Whether you’re an athlete gearing up for contact sports or simply looking to safeguard your smile during everyday activities, a mouthguard designed specifically for braces is essential. Not only does it shield your teeth and braces from injury, but it also enhances comfort and promotes overall oral health.
Let’s discover everything you need to know about mouthguards for braces, including their benefits, types, costs, and maintenance tips.
What Is a Mouthguard for Braces?
A mouthguard for braces is a specifically developed appliance that fits snugly over your teeth and braces. It serves as a protective barrier against impacts and injuries, making it crucial for anyone involved in physical activities or contact sports that pose a risk to dental health.
By absorbing shocks and preventing damage to both teeth and braces, these mouthguards help ensure that your orthodontic journey remains smooth and effective.
What is the Difference Between Regular and Braces-Compatible Mouthguards?
When it comes to mouthguards, not all are created equal! Here’s how braces-compatible mouthguards differ from regular ones:
- Structure: Mouthguards for braces are specifically crafted to accommodate mouth structure together with brackets and wires, ensuring a secure fit without compromising comfort.
- Material: Teeth continue to move to their optimal position with braces. These mouthguards are often made from softer, more flexible materials that adapt to changes in dental structure as teeth adjust during treatment.
- Fit: Braces-compatible mouthguards provide a snug fit around brackets, which helps prevent irritation and discomfort.
Benefits of Using a Mouthguard with Braces
Using a mouthguard while wearing braces offers several compelling advantages that go beyond mere protection:
1. Prevents Damage to Braces
A mouthguard serves as a protective barrier that absorbs shocks and impacts, significantly reducing the risk of dental injuries during contact sports. When you’re engaged in activities like basketball, football, or martial arts, the mouthguard helps shield your braces from potential damage caused by sudden blows to the face.
This not only protects your teeth but also prevents the brackets and wires from bending or breaking, which could lead to costly repairs and extended treatment times.
2. Reduced Friction
Wearing a mouthguard helps minimise friction between the soft tissues in your mouth and braces. This reduction in friction can greatly decrease irritation and prevent painful cuts and sores on the lips, cheeks, and tongue that can occur due to the edges of braces.
3. Various Uses
Mouthguards aren’t just for sports; they also serve multiple purposes. For individuals who grind their teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), a mouthguard can protect against wear and tear on both teeth and braces.
4. Cost-effective Preventive Measure
Investing in a mouthguard is a smart financial decision for anyone with braces. A mouthguard can save you significant money in the long run by preventing injuries that could lead to expensive dental repairs—such as broken brackets or damaged teeth.
Moreover, it helps preserve your oral health, allowing you to achieve your desired smile without worrying about unexpected costs associated with dental emergencies.
Types of Mouthguards for Braces
Choosing the right type of mouthguard can significantly impact your experience with braces. Here are the main options available:
Stock Mouthguards
These pre-formed guards are ready to wear right out of the package. While they are the most affordable option, their fit may be less than ideal.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Made from thermoplastic material, these guards can be softened in boiling water and moulded to fit your teeth better than stock options.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
For the best fit and comfort, custom-made mouthguards are created by dental professionals based on scans of your teeth. While they come at a higher price point, they offer superior protection tailored to your needs.
How To Choose Braces Mouthguard?
Selecting the right mouthgard is key to ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Here’s what to consider:
1. Size and Fit
The importance of the size and fit of mouthguards for braces cannot be overstated. A well-fitted mouthguard provides optimal protection and comfort, which allows you to engage in activities without worry.
- Tips for Checking Fit and Comfort:
- Ensure the mouthguard covers all teeth and braces without causing discomfort.
- It should feel snug but not overly tight; you should be able to breathe easily.
- Check for any areas of irritation after wearing it for a short period.
- If you experience difficulty speaking clearly or excessive gagging, consider trying a different size or type.
2. Material Type
The material used in a mouthguard significantly impacts its performance, comfort, and durability. Here’s an overview of common materials:
| Material | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Silicone | Soft, flexible, and comfortable; great for sensitive mouths. |
| Rubber | Durable with good shock absorption, it offers excellent protection. |
| Thermoplastic | It moulds well to the teeth and can be remoulded as the teeth adjust. |
3. Durability
Durability should also be considered, especially if you engage in sports or suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding). A mouthguard needs to withstand regular wear and tear while maintaining its protective qualities.
- For sports: Look for mouthguards designed specifically for high-impact activities that can endure significant force.
- For nighttime grinding: Consider a more robust option that can handle the pressure exerted during sleep.
4. Safety Standards
When selecting a mouthguard, it’s essential to ensure that it meets safety certifications and standards. This guarantees that the product has been tested for effectiveness and safety.
- ADA Approval: Indicates that the mouthguard meets the standards set by the American Dental Association.
- FDA Approval: Ensures that the materials used are safe for oral use.
How to Use Braces Mouthguard?
To properly fit and use a mouthguard with braces:
- Rinse your mouthguard with cold water before use.
- Place it over your upper teeth, ensuring it fits snugly over all brackets.
- Bite down gently to secure it in place.
- After use, remove it, rinse again, and store it safely in its case.
Braces Mouthguard Maintenance Tips
Keeping your mouthguard clean is essential for preventing bacterial buildup:
- Clean it daily with water and mild soap.
- Avoid using hot water because it can warp the material.
- Store it in a ventilated case when not in use.
Where to Buy Mouthguards for Braces?
Mouthguards can be purchased from various sources:
- Online Retailers: Convenient options are available at sites like Amazon.
- Dental Clinics: Custom options available through orthodontists.
How Much is Braces Mouthguard?
In Australia, prices for mouth guards vary based on type:
- Stock Mouthguards: Typically range from $1 to $15, available at sporting goods stores.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Priced around $20 to $60, offering better fit than stock options.
- Custom-Made Mouthguards: Generally cost between $190 and $500, providing the best fit and protection through dental professionals.
Can You Sleep with a Mouthguard for Braces?
Absolutely! You can sleep with a mouthguard designed for braces. It provides protection against grinding while ensuring comfort throughout the night.
How Often Should You Replace Your Mouthguard?
Mouthguards should be replaced every 6 months or sooner if there are already signs of wear, such as loss of shape or cracks.
Do Mouthguards Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
When properly fitted, mouthguards do not interfere with the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment; instead, they provide essential protection during active phases of treatment.
Conclusion
Mouthguards are an essential investment for anyone with braces engaged in physical activities or prone to teeth grinding. They protect against injuries while promoting comfort during orthodontic treatment.
By understanding the types available, their benefits, and how to maintain them properly, individuals can ensure their oral health remains intact throughout their orthodontic treatment—and keep that smile shining bright!