Sports Mouthguards: Types & Care | Wiewiora & Dunn Orthodontics

Sports Mouthguards: Different Types & Proper Care

March 19, 2024

For anyone who thinks they have to forfeit their love of sports to achieve the perfect smile, we have great news for you! You don’t have to sit on the sideline during your orthodontic treatment—that’s why mouthguards were created.

Mouthguards are critical not only to protect braces from being broken or damaged, but most importantly, to protect your mouth from impact. In many contact sports, mouth guards are required—and rightfully so! Especially when you’re undergoing treatment with braces, wearing a mouthguard is essential for protecting your mouth.

There are a number of different mouth guards you can choose from. No matter which type you choose, what’s important is that you wear it for every practice and every game.

Can you play football with braces?

Absolutely! Your orthodontic treatment won’t stop you from enjoying your favorite sports. Regardless of which sport you play, whether it’s generally high-impact or low-impact, you can still play with a sports mouthguard throughout your treatment.

How do I choose the best orthodontic mouthguard for sports?

 

There are a few main types of orthodontic mouthguards for sports, including boil-and-bite, custom-fitted and stock mouthguards.

Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-all mouthguards that are relatively easy to put in place and take out, but are generally bulkier and are the least protective type of mouthguard.

With a boil-and-bite mouthguard, you mold it to fit your teeth. Made of thermoplastic material, boil-and-bite mouthguards soften when they’re warmed with lukewarm water. You can then bite into the mouthguard to shape it to your teeth.

Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most comfortable mouthguards and the most expensive. These ones are custom-designed to fit your unique smile.

Depending on the specific sport you play and what level of impact you generally experience when you’re playing, one type of mouthguard may be better suited for you. We can help you decide which type is best for you!

How to Clean Your Mouthguard?

 

Just like a retainer, your braces or Invisalign clear aligners, mouthguards can harbor bacteria. It’s extremely important that you clean your mouthguard everyday with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Be sure to use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your mouthguard.

If you prefer to use soap, you can use a mild, alcohol-free, antimicrobial soap and cold water to gently scrub your mouthguard.

You can soak your mouthwash once or twice a week in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Here’s how to soak your mouthguard:

You can soak your mouthwash once or twice a week in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Here’s how to soak your mouthguard:

  1. Rinse your mouthguard with cool water.
  2. Put it in a glass and cover it with vinegar.
  3. Let it soak for 30 minutes.
  4. Rinse the mouthguard and glass with cold water.
  5. Put the mouthguard back in the glass and cover it with hydrogen peroxide.
  6. Let it soak for another 30 minutes.
  7. Let the mouthguard dry.

If you have any questions about how to wear a mouthguard, how to clean it or which type you should choose, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Our experienced team is here to provide you with the information you need to ensure a successful, safe treatment process.

Ready to begin your smile transformation? Request your complimentary consultation with us in Lake Mary or Longwood today.

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