Choosing the best mouthguard for braces is essential to protect your teeth and braces during sports or other activities where there’s a risk of impact. Here’s what to look for when selecting a mouthguard, along with some helpful tips.
Key Features of an Ideal Mouthguard for Braces
- Adjustability
- Flexible Fit: The mouthguard should be made from a flexible material that can adapt to the shifting of your teeth during orthodontic treatment.
- Braces-Friendly: It should fit comfortably over the brackets and wires without applying pressure that could damage them.
- Comfort
- Cushioning: A good mouthguard should provide ample cushioning to absorb impact and protect your teeth, braces, lips, and gums.
- Breathability: It should allow you to breathe and speak easily while wearing it.
- Protection
- Comprehensive Coverage: Ensure the mouthguard covers both the upper and lower teeth, providing protection against impact from all directions.
- Durability: Choose a mouthguard made from high-quality materials that offer long-lasting protection.
- Customizability
- Custom Fit: Ideally, a mouthguard should be custom-fitted by your orthodontist or dentist. This ensures the best possible fit and protection.
- Boil-and-Bite Options: If a custom-fitted mouthguard isn’t available, a boil-and-bite option is the next best choice, as it can be molded to fit your teeth.
- Size Consideration
- Buy a Bigger Size: When purchasing a mouthguard for braces, opt for a slightly larger size. This extra room accommodates the braces and allows for the movement of your teeth during treatment.
Types of Mouthguards for Braces
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
- Orthodontic-Specific: Custom-fitted mouthguards made by your orthodontist are specifically designed for braces wearers. They offer the best fit and highest level of protection.
- Advantages: These provide the most comfort and protection, as they are tailored to your individual mouth structure and orthodontic needs.
- Considerations: They are usually more expensive, but they are the ideal choice for serious athletes.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
- Moldable: These mouthguards are softened in hot water and then molded to fit your teeth and braces.
- Advantages: They offer a semi-custom fit and good protection, making them a popular choice for athletes.
- Considerations: Make sure to buy a bigger size to fit over your braces and account for any tooth movement during your treatment.
- Stock Mouthguards
- Pre-Formed: These are one-size-fits-all mouthguards that come pre-formed and ready to wear. They are the least expensive option but also the least protective.
- Advantages: Easy to use and widely available.
- Considerations: They often provide a poor fit, which can lead to discomfort and inadequate protection. They are generally not recommended for braces wearers.
Recommended Mouthguards for Braces
- Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard
- Design: Specifically designed for braces, this mouthguard is made from medical-grade silicone, which adjusts to the movement of your teeth.
- Comfort: It offers excellent protection and comfort without needing to be boiled, making it a convenient option.
- Breathability: Designed with breathing channels, it allows for easy breathing and speaking during use.
- Size Consideration: Opt for a slightly larger size to ensure a comfortable fit over your braces.
- Vettex Mouthguard with Lip Protection
- Design: This mouthguard offers additional lip protection, which is especially useful for athletes involved in contact sports.
- Comfort: It fits comfortably over braces and provides ample protection.
- Breathability: The mouthguard includes breathing holes, allowing for easy airflow.
- Size Consideration: Choose a bigger size to accommodate your braces and any tooth movement.
- Opro Power-Fit Mouthguard
- Customizable: A boil-and-bite option that offers a good fit and high-level protection.
- Comfort: Designed to be braces-friendly and offers great comfort while in use.
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting protection.
- Size Consideration: Make sure to select a bigger size to fit comfortably over your braces.
- SISU Mouthguards
- Thin and Lightweight: Known for their thin profile, SISU mouthguards are durable and offer excellent protection without being bulky.
- Custom Fit: The mouthguard can be remolded multiple times to accommodate teeth movement during orthodontic treatment.
- Breathability: Provides excellent airflow, making it comfortable to wear during sports activities.
- Size Consideration: As with other mouthguards, consider sizing up to ensure a good fit over your braces.
Conclusion
Selecting the right mouthguard for braces is crucial for protecting your teeth and braces during sports and other activities. Be sure to choose a mouthguard that offers flexibility, comfort, and protection, and always consider buying a bigger size to ensure it fits comfortably over your braces. Consulting with your orthodontist can help you find the best option tailored to your specific needs.
