Choose the Best Mouthguard for Braces While Playing Sports

Choose the Best Mouthguard for Braces While Playing Sports

Consider a Custom-Fit Mouthguard for Maximum Comfort and Protection

Having braces can make finding the right mouthguard more complicated. The brackets and wires used in braces can irritate the mouth when wearing an ill-fitting guard. This is why getting a custom-fitted mouthguard is recommended for athletes with braces who want both maximum protection and comfort on the field or court.

Custom-fit mouthguards are molded specifically to your mouth, braces and all. This tailored approach allows for a tight yet comfortable fit that stays firmly in place during competition. The customization also ensures the mouthguard material won’t press against and rub your brackets and wires in an abrasive way. There are no uncomfortable pressure points.

When getting a custom mouthguard made, an impression is taken of your unique mouth structure using dental putty. This is then used to create a plastic guard that matches the contours of your braces flawlessly. The result is a mouthguard that feels like a natural extension of your mouth, not a bulky annoyance. It moves with your mouth muscles instead of loose flapping that can distract your play.

The snug fit of a custom guard also means you can communicate clearly to teammates without having to remove it. No need to sacrifice protection just to talk! Being able to breathe naturally is another benefit over bulky generic mouthguards. You’ll avoid that suffocated feeling and play at your peak.

For serious athletes with braces who want that vital combination of safety, comfort and performance, a custom-fitted mouthguard is definitely the way to go. The precision molding ensures your braces won’t get bumped and jostled about, helping prevent damage that could set back your orthodontic treatment. Your dentist can take impressions and work with a dental lab to fabricate the ideal custom guard for your sport and brace configuration. Getting fitted for one should be at the top of your pre-season preparation.

Shock Doctor Offers Braces-Friendly Mouthguards and Lip Guards

When looking for a high-quality mouthguard that works with your braces, Shock Doctor is a top brand to consider. They make a variety of mouthguards designed specifically for athletes with braces. This includes innovative lip guards that offer extra protection.

Shock Doctor’s Gel Max Braces and Gel Max Lips mouthguards utilize a soft gel frame along the inner lining. This cushy gel padding ensures the plastic doesn’t press uncomfortably into the metal brackets and wires of your braces. The advanced shock-absorbing gel conforms to the unique shape of your mouth and braces. It creates a relaxed fit that stays secure yet comfortable no matter how intense the gameplay gets.

These Shock Doctor mouthguards are available in different thickness levels based on your preference and sport. Their integrated Exoskeletal Shock Frame provides durable protection against dental injuries and concussions by diffusing impact forces throughout the guard. Vented breathing channels allow for natural airflow and make speaking coherent.

For even more reinforcement, Shock Doctor offers lip guards specially made for braces wearers. These provide additional shielding for the vulnerable lip area. Braces can sometimes cause irritation and rubbing inside the mouth that leads to sore, cut lips. The lip guard creates an extra barrier without inhibiting your ability to communicate.

Shock Doctor’s braces-tailored mouthguards and lip guards undergo rigorous independent testing to ensure they meet key protection standards for athletes. All their products are free from BPAs, latex and phthalates. Getting fit for one of Shock Doctor’s braces-friendly guards provides peace of mind knowing your mouth will remain safely guarded without your braces causing discomfort.

Look for a Low-Profile Design to Avoid Irritating Your Braces

When selecting a mouthguard to wear while you have braces, an important factor to consider is the guard’s thickness and overall profile. Bulky generic mouthguards that are thick and oversized can end up constantly bumping into and irritating your braces. This can make them unbearable to wear for long periods.

The best mouthguard for braces will have a slim, contoured low-profile design. This ensures the guard fits compactly in your mouth without excess size and bulk that might bash against your brackets and wires. A streamlined guard stays nested closer to the teeth instead of protruding out.

Look for guards labeled as “low profile” from brands like Shock Doctor or ask your orthodontist for a recommendation. You want a guard that adds only a few millimeters of thickness that follows your inner tooth and gum contour. This prevents painful rubbing and jostling of your braces.

Avoid oversized, bulky generic boil-and-bite guards that are too thick and create a loose sloppy fit. These kinds of ill-fitting guards will constantly bump into your wires and brackets as you play, causing irritation, cuts and damage. The slim, seamless profile of a properly contoured low-profile guard is vital for braces wearers.

The guard should be smooth and rounded at the edges as well. This further minimizes abrasiveness against your braces. Test out how the guard feels by talking and moving your mouth before committing to a purchase. Look for a guard where you can comfortably speak, breathe, drink and move your mouth naturally without any brace interference.

Finding a guard with an ultra-slim, seamless profile ensures your braces won’t get banged around and irritated. You’ll be able to wear it comfortably for hours! Prioritize low-profile fit when shopping for a braces-friendly athletic mouthguard.

Find a Mouthguard that Allows You to Breathe and Speak Clearly

Having a mouthguard that allows you to breathe naturally and speak clearly is important for any athlete, but especially critical if you have braces. The last thing you want is a bulky, ill-fitting guard that makes you feel like you’re gasping for air and renders your speech incoherent.

Look for a mouthguard designed specifically for braces that features ventilation holes or thin walls that allow sufficient airflow. Guards with a streamlined, contoured fit won’t block your breathing like a generic “boil-and-bite” guard might. You should be able to inhale and exhale without restriction.

Also pay attention to the material thickness around the front incisors. A bulky front can affect your ability to enunciate words and project your voice. Aim for a guard with a slim profile around the front teeth to facilitate clear speech.

Try talking with the mouthguard in to test it out before finalizing a purchase. You want to be able to communicate audibly on the field with teammates, referees and coaches without constantly needing to remove your guard.

Advanced guards like Shock Doctor’s line allow for easy breathing and talking due to their innovative thin-walled construction. They mold tightly to the teeth while eliminating excess bulk. Look for large ventilation ports that enhance airflow. The best guards move seamlessly with your mouth so you can breathe and speak naturally.

Proper airflow and speech are must-have features in a braces-friendly mouthguard. An uncomfortable suffocating feeling or inability to talk clearly will distract from your performance. Prioritize a streamlined guard that allows you to power through games and practices while protected.

Make Sure the Mouthguard Has a Secure Retention Strap

Having braces can make keeping your mouthguard securely in place even more of a challenge. Luckily, many high-quality mouthguards designed for braces come equipped with an integrated retention strap to help keep the guard anchored.

Look for a mouthguard with an attached elastic tether or strap that affixes behind your head or around your facemask. This keeps the guard from slipping out and provides an easy way to take it out and put it back in between plays. Simply slide the strap off to remove the guard instead of using your fingers which can transfer bacteria.

The strap also eliminates the need to constantly spit out your guard on the field. No more scrambling to find a dropped guard covered in grass and dirt! The tether keeps it handy around your neck when not in active use so it stays clean.

Shock Doctor mouthguards utilize a highly configurable retention strap system. The straps securely attach to face masks and helmets in a variety of sports like football, lacrosse, hockey and more. This prevents accidental swallowing or loss of the guard during intense gameplay.

Look for wide, comfortable straps that don’t irritate the skin. Slender string-like straps can sometimes get tangled in braces. An adjustable strap allows customizing the fit. Try different strap configurations to find the most secure fit that works for your particular sport and brace setup.

A securely tethered mouthguard provides peace of mind knowing your expensive orthodontic braces will remain protected. Never again will you have to frantically search for an ejected guard or feel it slip out mid-play. A retention strap is a must-have feature for braces wearers looking to keep their guard anchored in place.

Get Proper Fitting for Your Shock Doctor Mouthguard

Getting a proper fit is crucial when selecting a Shock Doctor mouthguard designed for braces. Taking the time to correctly size and customize the fit will ensure maximum protection and comfort.

Shock Doctor offers boil-and-bite mouthguards that can be carefully molded at home, as well as custom-fitted guards made from dental impressions. For boil-and-bite guards, carefully follow the included fitting instructions to adapt the mouthguard to your braces.

First, immerse the mouthguard in hot (not boiling) water to soften the material. Test the temperature before inserting it carefully into your mouth, being sure not to bite down and imprint your braces. Use light guide pressure with your tongue and fingers to work the material around the contours of your braces.

Suck out air and water while pressing outward. Don’t focus pressure on your braces. Use short 30-second intervals to avoid over-thinning the material. Rinse with cold water to set the impression before trimming any excess length.

For a custom professional fit, your dentist will use dental putty to record an exact impression of your teeth and braces. This is then used to fabricate a guard molded specifically for your mouth. This precision fit is ideal for total comfort and protection.

Always consult your orthodontist before using any mouthguard with your braces. They can assess fit and recommend adjustments as needed. Proper sizing and fitting is imperative so your Shock Doctor mouthguard stays firmly in place and doesn’t irritate your orthodontic braces during play.

Compare Different Thicknesses Based on Your Sport and Needs

When selecting a Shock Doctor mouthguard to wear with braces, an important consideration is the thickness and level of protection needed for your particular sport. Shock Doctor offers guards in a range of thicknesses from low-profile to maximum protection.

For less contact sports like basketball or baseball, a thinner guard in the 3 to 4mm range may suffice. These slimmer guards prioritize comfort and breathability while still dissipating blows from elbows or balls.

Higher-impact contact sports like football, hockey and lacrosse benefit from maximum protection 4.5 to 5mm guards. These absorb intense direct hits and collisions while protecting against concussions. The added thickness cushions blows to avoid pain and injury.

Consider your position – a quarterback needs less thickness than a lineman. Look for shock-absorbing gel padding layered into the guard for more cushioning. This helps prevent damage to your braces from impacts.

Also factor your braces configuration into the equation. Less protruding or expansive braces may permit a slimmer guard. More extensive fixed braces may benefit from additional reinforcement. Discuss your sport and braces with your orthodontist to determine the ideal guard thickness.

Shock Doctor labels their mouthguard thickness levels clearly for easy selection. Opt for the level that provides necessary protection without compromising comfort and breathability based on your sport and brace arrangement. With Shock Doctor’s range of choices, you can find the perfect thickness for safeguarding your smile and braces.

Clean and Care for Your Mouthguard Properly After Each Use

Proper cleaning and care is essential for maximizing the lifespan of your Shock Doctor mouthguard and keeping it hygienic. This is especially important if you wear braces.

Always rinse your mouthguard with cold water after each use to remove debris and dirt. Use an antibacterial soap and toothbrush to gently scrub away any plaque or saliva buildup on both the inner and outer surfaces. Avoid harsh abrasives.

Periodically soak the guard for 15-20 minutes in denture cleaner or a mild bleach solution to fully disinfect it and prevent bacterial growth. Let the guard air dry completely before storing to avoid warping the shape.

Keep the guard in a perforated protective case when not in use so it maintains its form. Avoid extremes of hot and cold. Don’t chew on the guard as this can distort the fit over time.

Inspect for cracks in the material before each use and replace the guard if any develop. Small tears can expand into major splits under impact that reduce protection.

Take out your guard when eating and drinking sugary or acidic foods and beverages which can encourage bacteria growth. Follow your orthodontist’s recommendations for wearing time limits.

With proper daily cleaning and periodic deep cleaning, your custom-fitted Shock Doctor mouthguard will maintain its protective abilities and keep your braces safe from harm for many seasons of play.

Ask Your Orthodontist to Recommend the Best Mouthguard

Your orthodontist is an invaluable resource when it comes to selecting the optimal mouthguard to protect your braces. Schedule a consultation and ask them to evaluate your options.

Bring in the mouthguard you are considering to the appointment and have your orthodontist assess the fit inside your mouth with braces. They can identify any potential issues with size, thickness or irritating contact points.

Describe the mouthguard’s retention system and how you will affix it during your sport like attaching it to a helmet or face mask. Ask your orthodontist if they foresee any issues with the strap slipping or dislodging the braces.

Go over your chosen sport and position so your orthodontist understands the types of potential impacts to your mouth and braces. They can then gauge whether the guard offers suitable shock absorption.

Find out if your orthodontist has any recommendations for or experience with particular mouthguard brands or styles that work well with braces. This input can help narrow your choices.

Listen to any suggested tweaks or adjustments to improve comfort and protection. Your orthodontist may advise using dental wax or silicone cushions on irritating areas.

With guidance from your knowledgeable orthodontist, you can select a braces-friendly mouthguard that checks all the boxes for safety, performance and protection. Their experience and input is invaluable for making the optimal choice.

Consider Shock Doctor’s Instant Fit Mouthguards for Convenience

Shock Doctor’s line of Instant Fit mouthguards offer a convenient braces-friendly option that molds to your teeth quickly with no boiling required.

These innovative guards use patented InstaFit technology to contour to your mouth on contact. Simply run the Instant Fit mouthguard under cool water, push it into place over your teeth and braces, and bite down gently.

The impression material will begin to set within seconds, shaped by the unique structure of your mouth, brackets and wires. In just about a minute, you’ll have a custom-feeling mouthguard formed right in your mouth.

Instant Fit guards come in a variety of thickness levels for different protection needs. Their low profile avoids irritating your braces while still absorbing impacts.

Shock Doctor’s quick molding speeds up the fitting process compared to boil-and-bite guards. You can easily remold the Instant Fit if needed to achieve your desired fit as the impression material can be reheated and set multiple times.

For those seeking convenience and a comfortable custom-like fit, Shock Doctor’s Instant Fit mouthguards are an excellent braces-friendly choice. In mere minutes you’ll have a precision-fitted guard that protects your orthodontic investment during athletic play.

Check for BPA-Free and Latex-Free Construction for Safety

When selecting a mouthguard to wear while you have braces, an important factor to consider is whether the materials used are free of BPA, latex and other harmful substances.

BPA (bisphenol A) is an industrial chemical found in some plastics that can seep out over time. It has been linked to adverse health effects. Latex allergies are also common.

Look for mouthguards made from BPA-free, medical-grade polymers rather than vinyl or cheaper plastics. The packaging should clearly state it is BPA-free. Call the manufacturer if unsure.

Latex-free construction also eliminates the risk of exposure and reactions. Those with latex allergies can safely use guards made with latex-free materials.

Reputable athletic brands like Shock Doctor pride themselves on providing BPA-free and latex-free mouthguards. Their guards utilize advanced polymers approved for medical use instead of hazardous plastics.

Phthalate-free construction is also preferred, as these chemicals can also leach out from plastics over time and pose health risks. Shock Doctor states their guards contain no phthalates.

Don’t risk any reactions or exposure that could be amplified by having braces. Insist on mouthguards whose materials have been safety-tested and certified to be free of hazardous BPA, latex, phthalates and other concerning chemicals.

Find a Flavor You Enjoy to Make Wearing It More Comfortable

Having to wear a mouthguard for hours during practices and games while you have braces can get uncomfortable. Finding one with a flavor you enjoy can help make the experience more pleasant.

Many leading mouthguard companies like Shock Doctor offer guards in a variety of fun flavors. Popular options include bubblegum, mint, strawberry, orange, lemon-lime, blue raspberry, watermelon and more.

Flavored mouthguards stimulate your taste buds and help keep your mouth feeling refreshed. The flavoring agents are embedded in the materials so they won’t wear off or fade over time.

Flavor is a matter of personal preference so test out different samples. Strong minty or citrus flavors help keep your mouth feeling cleansed. Sweet fruit flavors provide an energy boost and combat dry mouth.

Avoid medicinal, spicy or unpleasant flavors that could make wearing the guard a chore. Think about flavors you typically enjoy in gum, candy, toothpaste and beverages.

Having a subtle flavor you like provides another layer of sensory comfort and encourages you to keep the guard in your mouth longer. A flavored guard combined with proper dental hygiene helps fights bacteria buildup.

Browse the different flavor offerings when shopping for your braces mouthguard until you find some appealing options. A flavored guard makes protecting your orthodontic investment a little sweeter.

Make Sure You Can Drink Water Easily While Wearing the Mouthguard

Staying hydrated with water during sports is critically important, especially if you have braces. Look for a mouthguard that allows you to drink water easily without needing to remove it.

Guards with a trim, streamlined fit and thin walls minimize bulkiness and enable you to purse your lips around a water bottle spout. Excess material can make it almost impossible to access your mouth for drinking.

Shock Doctor’s low-profile Gel Fit guards are specifically designed with drinking in mind. Their ample front opening allows you to seal your lips around a water bottle for mid-game hydration.

Vibration-dampening gel layers also facilitate a custom contoured fit that doesn’t inhibit your ability to open and close your mouth. You’ll be able to take big gulps of water instead of tiny sips.

Test out drinking while wearing a mouthguard before finalizing a purchase. Can you create a tight seal on the bottle spout without the guard getting in the way? Does water go into your mouth or spill out around the guard?

Proper hydration prevents your mouth from drying out and helps dislodge food particles. Look for a streamlined guard that gives you full access to drink as needed. Keeping your braces free of sticky buildup starts with staying hydrated.

Read Reviews to Learn from Other Athletes with Braces

Looking at customer reviews for different mouthguards can provide helpful insight into choosing one that works well with braces. Learn from other athletes who have tested them out.

Look for reviews from braces wearers that highlight first-hand experiences with comfort, fit, protection and ease of use. Does the mouthguard irritate braces and rub the inside of the lips? Does it stay secured in place?

See if any reviewers mention issues with thickness, breathing, speech or drinking while wearing the guard. Useful details may include specifics on their brace configuration and sport position.

Look for common positive themes around guards with slim tailored designs, adequate shock absorption and secure fit. Guards that users report don’t interfere with braces are good candidates.

Consider both positive and critical reviews to get a balanced perspective. Look for guards with an overall high rating and features braces wearers indicate they appreciate.

There’s no better test than direct user feedback. Reviews based on actual use can reveal strengths and weaknesses not obvious from product descriptions alone. Let fellow braces-wearing athletes guide you toward the best mouthguard for your particular orthodontic and athletic needs.