An Introduction to Mouthguards for Braces Wearers
Getting braces can be an exciting time – straight teeth and a perfect smile are just around the corner! But braces also come with some unique oral health challenges. The brackets and wires make your teeth more susceptible to damage during sports and other physical activities. That’s where a specialized mouthguard for braces comes in. A properly fitted mouthguard cushions blows to the face, protecting your orthodontic investment and preventing injury to your lips, tongue, and teeth.
However, not all mouthguards are created equal when you have braces. You need one that is customized to fit around your braces hardware. Ill-fitting generic mouthguards can be uncomfortable and may even dislodge your brackets. Luckily, there are many great options on the market made just for athletes and active folks with braces.
I’ve worn braces for over a year now, and have tried my fair share of mouthguards for bracket-wearers. Based on my experience, here is an in-depth look at some of the best shock doctor mouthguards and sisu mouthguards that provide the perfect fit and protection for braces.
The Benefits of Using a Mouthguard With Braces
Wearing a mouthguard while you have braces is crucial to protect your orthodontic investment. Damaged or dislodged brackets can lead to lost treatment time and expensive emergency repair appointments. A properly fitted mouthguard minimizes the risk of injury by absorbing shock.
Here are some of the key benefits of using a mouthguard with braces:
- Protects brackets from damage during impact
- Prevents brackets and wires from cutting into the soft tissue of lips, cheeks, and gums
- Reduces risk of cracked or knocked-out teeth
- Absorbs shock away from the jaw joints and minimizes risk of concussion
- Can reduce dental injuries by up to 80% compared to no mouthguard
- Provides peace of mind for braces-wearers and parents of young athletes
Key Features to Look For in a Braces-Friendly Mouthguard
Not all mouthguards are suited for braces. Here are some key features to look for when selecting the best mouthguard to wear with orthodontic hardware:
- Thinner design to accommodate brackets and wires
- Smooth edges that won’t irritate the gums and cheeks
- Comfortable fit that stays in place over braces
- Strong yet flexible material that absorbs shock
- Allows you to breathe and speak normally
- Easy to clean and cares for your braces too
Top Picks for Boil-and-Bite Braces Mouthguards
The easiest and most affordable mouthguard options are boil-and-bite style. You immerse it in hot water briefly to soften, then bite down to mold it to your braces. Here are some great boil-and-bite choices:
Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard
Shock Doctor makes mouthguards designed specifically for braces, and they are a great budget-friendly option. Their thin, low profile mouthguards are easy to mold at home and made of durable medical-grade silicone. I’ve found the sizing to be pretty forgiving too. Shock Doctor also offers a mouthguard case and strap.
Sisu Max Braces Guard
The Sisu Max mouthguard is ultra-thin and flexible, making it very comfortable with braces. It molds to fit snugly around brackets and wires. This mouthguard from sisu allows you to talk and breathe naturally. It comes in stylish colors and patterns too.
Ultra Braces Pro-Fit Mouthguard
With its slim profile and smooth edges, the Ultra Braces mouthguard fits nicely around orthodontic appliances. It has a harder copolymer outer layer and soft silicone liner for great shock absorption. You can choose from different thickness options.
Best Custom-Fit Braces Mouthguards Money Can Buy
For the best fit and protection, get a custom mouthguard made specifically for your braces. Here are some top options:
Shock Doctor Braces Custom Fit
Shock Doctor offers ultra-comfortable custom mouthguards molded from dental impressions. You’ll first have dental impressions made, which are used to create an exact mold of your teeth and braces. The result is a flawless fit with no abrasion or rubbing.
Sisu Custom Dental Guard
Sisu custom dental guards provide a precise fit around your orthodontics using 3D-printed molds. The materials are durable yet comfortable. Sisu can incorporate your team colors and logo too.
Under Armour Custom Guards
Under Armour crafts professional-grade custom mouthguards designed for braces and recommended by dentists. They offer maximum protection and let you showcase your braces with cool colors and patterns.
Choosing the Right Size Braces Mouthguard for You
Like regular mouthguards, brace-friendly guards come in a range of sizes. Follow sizing charts and instructions to pick the right one:
- Junior sizes for ages 6-12
- Youth sizes for ages 12-15
- Adult sizes in small, medium, large, and XL
- Measure your dental arch size if unsure
- Too small can inhibit breathing; too large can slide around
- Re-check sizing periodically as mouth size changes
Getting the Perfect Fit With Your New Mouthguard
The key to maximum protection and comfort is getting the right customized fit:
- Carefully follow molding instructions
- Make sure mouthguard material fully covers all brackets
- Don’t bite down too hard when molding
- Smooth down edges on gumline with fingernail
- Check fit and re-mold if needed
- Consult your orthodontist with any rubbing or pinching
Caring for Your Mouthguard to Make it Last
With proper care, a quality braces mouthguard can serve you for the duration of your orthodontic treatment. Here are some tips for keeping it in great shape:
- Rinse after each use and air dry
- Store in protective case when not in use
- Avoid high heat when cleaning
- Brush with non-abrasive toothpaste
- Soak monthly in denture cleaner for thorough cleaning
- Replace if becomes loose, torn, or damaged
Avoiding Common Mistakes Braces Wearers Make With Mouthguards
It’s easy for braces wearers to make some fitting and usage errors that can shorten the life of their mouthguard. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Not molding tightly around brackets
- Grinding teeth when molding
- Not smoothing rough edges
- Wearing a too-large mouthguard
- Keeping on during meals
- Storing without protective case
- Using abrasive cleaners
When to Replace Your Mouthguard for Braces
Plan on replacing your mouthguard about every season or year to maintain perfect protection and hygiene:
- If damaged, torn or perforated
- Poor fit due to teeth shifting
- Brackets or bands are changed
- Excess wear and thinning
- Every 6-12 months for sanitary reasons
Consult your orthodontist when getting a new mouthguard to ensure proper fit.
Mouthguard Brands Orthodontists Recommend
When looking for the best mouthguards to wear with braces, it helps to consider products your orthodontist trusts. Here are some top brands orthodontic professionals often recommend:
- Shock Doctor – offers variety of braces mouthguards
- Sisu – thin, flexible guards ideal for braces
- Under Armour – makes custom-fit guards for braces
- Ultra – boil-and-bite and custom options
- Opro – known for comfortable, custom fit
- Sportsguard – orthodontist-founded company
Affordable Braces Mouthguard Options Under $25
You don’t have to spend a bundle on mouth protection for your braces. Many high-quality budget-friendly options are under $25:
- Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard – $19.99
- Sisu Aero Braces Guard – $24.99
- Ultra Braces Strapless Mouthguard – $19.99
- Nike Braces Pro-Fit Mouthguard – $19.99
- Mueller Braces Mouthguard – $9.88
Comparison shop online for best pricing. Look for coupons and promo codes to save more.
Splurge-Worthy High-End Mouthguards for Braces
Premium custom mouthguards provide the utmost in fit, comfort and shock absorption. Expect to spend $75-$200+ on high-end options like:
- Shock Doctor Custom Braces Guards – $99.99-$189.99
- Sisu Custom Dental Guards – $129-$159
- Under Armour Custom-Made Guards – $100-$150+
- Fight Dentist Custom Guards – $150+
- Gladiator Custom Guards – $199-$279
The investment pays off in injury prevention and reduced chair time for braces repairs.
Other Oral Appliances for Braces Wearers
In addition to mouthguards, other oral appliances can help braces wearers prevent injury:
- Orthodontic wax relieves irritation from brackets
- Braces pain relief wax provides cushioning
- Dental cheek retractor protects inner cheeks/lips
- Medicinal mouth rinses prevent gum irritation
- Lip balm prevents chapping from wires and bands
Ask your orthodontist to recommend appropriate appliances to enhance comfort and oral health.
Protecting Your Investment: Keeping Your Braces Intact
Getting a quality mouthguard designed for your braces is one of the best investments you can make. Protecting your orthodontic work will help ensure successful treatment with minimal emergencies and repairs. Your smile and wallet will thank you!