Why do field hockey players with braces need special mouthguards. How can the right mouthguard prevent costly dental work. What features should you look for in a braces-friendly field hockey mouthguard. Discover the best options to safeguard your orthodontic investment on the field.

The Critical Need for Specialized Mouthguards in Field Hockey

Field hockey is a fast-paced, high-impact sport that poses significant risks to players’ teeth and orthodontic work. For athletes with braces, the stakes are even higher. A standard mouthguard simply doesn’t provide adequate protection for the complex array of brackets, wires, and bands that make up modern orthodontic appliances.

Why is this such a pressing concern? The combination of hard plastic balls, swinging sticks, and physical contact creates a perfect storm of potential dental disasters. A direct hit from a ball or stick can easily dislodge brackets, bend wires, or even cause more severe oral injuries. The financial and physical consequences of such incidents can be substantial, often requiring emergency orthodontic appointments and potentially extending the duration of treatment.

The Unique Challenges Faced by Braces-Wearing Athletes

Players with braces face a unique set of challenges on the field hockey pitch. The metal components of their orthodontic work are not only vulnerable to damage but can also exacerbate injuries in the event of an impact. A blow that might cause minor discomfort to a player without braces could result in cuts, abrasions, or even more severe trauma when metal brackets are involved.

How does a specialized mouthguard address these issues? By providing a custom-fitted barrier that envelops both the teeth and the braces, these guards offer a crucial layer of protection. They’re designed to absorb and distribute the force of impacts, significantly reducing the risk of damage to orthodontic work and underlying dental structures.

Key Features of Effective Field Hockey Mouthguards for Braces

When selecting a mouthguard for field hockey while wearing braces, several essential features should be considered. These characteristics can make the difference between adequate protection and potential disaster on the field.

• Enhanced cushioning in the front area
• Custom-moldable material for a precise fit
• Sufficient thickness to cover brackets and wires
• Breathable design for comfort during play
• Durable construction to withstand repeated impacts

Which feature is most crucial for braces protection? While all these aspects are important, the ability to achieve a custom fit is paramount. A mouthguard that conforms exactly to the contours of your teeth and braces will provide the most comprehensive protection against impacts from all angles.

The Importance of Proper Fitting and Customization

Generic, off-the-shelf mouthguards often fail to provide adequate protection for players with braces. The complex topography created by orthodontic appliances requires a guard that can mold precisely to these unique contours. How can players ensure they get the right fit?

Many orthodontists and dentists offer custom-fitted mouthguards as part of their services. These professionally crafted guards are created from detailed impressions of the player’s teeth and braces, resulting in a perfect fit that offers maximum protection. While more expensive than generic options, the investment in a custom guard can pay dividends in terms of safety and comfort on the field.

Top Mouthguard Options for Braces-Wearing Field Hockey Players

With the importance of proper protection established, let’s explore some of the best mouthguard options available for field hockey players with braces in 2024. These guards have been selected based on their protective capabilities, comfort, and suitability for use with orthodontic appliances.

1. SISU Aero Guard
2. Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard
3. Under Armour ArmourFit Mouthguard
4. Gladiator Custom Pro Mouthguard
5. Tapout Mouthguard for Braces

Each of these options offers unique benefits for players with braces. The SISU Aero Guard, for instance, is known for its ultra-thin design that doesn’t compromise on protection, making it an excellent choice for players who prioritize breathability and speech clarity. The Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard, on the other hand, features a special orthodontic design with additional space to accommodate braces comfortably.

Comparing Material Technologies and Protection Levels

How do these mouthguards differ in terms of material composition and protective capabilities? The SISU Aero Guard utilizes a unique non-compressible perforated surface that diffuses impact forces effectively despite its slim profile. In contrast, the Under Armour ArmourFit employs a gel-fit liner that molds to the teeth and braces for a custom fit, combined with a tough outer layer for impact resistance.

The Gladiator Custom Pro takes customization to the next level, offering a fully bespoke guard created from professional dental impressions. This approach ensures unparalleled fit and protection, albeit at a higher price point. The Tapout Mouthguard for Braces strikes a balance between affordability and protection, featuring a boil-and-bite design with extra material to accommodate orthodontic work.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Field Hockey Mouthguards

Investing in a high-quality mouthguard is only the first step in ensuring long-lasting protection for your braces during field hockey. Proper care and maintenance are crucial to maintaining the guard’s effectiveness and hygiene over time.

How should you clean your mouthguard after use? Rinse the guard thoroughly with cool water immediately after each use to remove saliva and debris. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean the guard, paying special attention to any crevices where bacteria might accumulate. Avoid using hot water, as this can warp the shape of the guard and compromise its protective capabilities.

Storage and Replacement Guidelines

Proper storage is essential to prevent damage and maintain hygiene between uses. Store your mouthguard in a ventilated case to allow it to dry completely and avoid bacterial growth. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause warping or degradation of the material.

How often should you replace your field hockey mouthguard? As a general rule, mouthguards should be replaced at the beginning of each new sports season or every six months, whichever comes first. However, if you notice any signs of wear, such as thinning material, tears, or a loose fit, replace the guard immediately to ensure continued protection.

The Impact of Mouthguards on Performance and Comfort

One common concern among field hockey players is how wearing a mouthguard might affect their performance on the field. While it’s true that some adjustment is necessary, modern mouthguards are designed to minimize interference with breathing, speaking, and hydration.

Can you drink water while wearing a field hockey mouthguard? Many contemporary guards are designed with small channels or perforations that allow players to drink without removing the guard entirely. This feature is particularly beneficial during intense matches or practice sessions where frequent hydration is crucial.

Adapting to Your Mouthguard: Tips for New Users

For players new to wearing a mouthguard, especially those with braces, there may be an initial period of discomfort or awkwardness. How can you adjust more quickly to wearing your guard during play? Start by wearing the mouthguard for short periods during low-intensity activities, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable. Practice speaking and breathing exercises while wearing the guard to improve your comfort level.

Remember that a properly fitted mouthguard should feel secure but not overly tight or restrictive. If you experience persistent discomfort or difficulty breathing, consult with your orthodontist or the mouthguard manufacturer to ensure you have the correct fit and model for your needs.

Integrating Mouthguard Use into Team Culture and Training

Creating a culture of safety within a field hockey team is crucial for protecting all players, especially those with braces. Coaches and team leaders play a vital role in promoting and enforcing the use of appropriate mouthguards during both practices and matches.

How can coaches encourage consistent mouthguard use among their players? Incorporate mouthguard checks into pre-practice and pre-game routines, making them as essential as stick and shin guard checks. Educate players about the risks of playing without proper protection and the potential long-term consequences of dental injuries.

Overcoming Resistance to Mouthguard Use

Some players may resist wearing mouthguards due to perceived discomfort or impact on performance. How can these concerns be addressed effectively? Arrange for a dental professional to speak to the team about the importance of oral protection in sports. Share success stories of professional athletes who consistently use mouthguards without compromising their performance.

Consider organizing team fittings for custom mouthguards, which can improve comfort and acceptance among players. By making mouthguard use a team-wide initiative, you create a supportive environment where protection becomes a shared value rather than an individual burden.

The Future of Mouthguard Technology in Field Hockey

As sports science and material technology continue to advance, the future of mouthguards for field hockey players with braces looks promising. Innovations in design and materials are constantly improving the balance between protection, comfort, and performance.

What emerging technologies are shaping the future of sports mouthguards? Smart mouthguards equipped with sensors to detect and measure impact forces are already being developed. These devices could provide valuable data for assessing injury risks and improving protective gear designs. Additionally, advances in 3D printing technology may soon allow for even more precise custom fitting processes, potentially at a lower cost than current methods.

Anticipated Improvements in Braces-Specific Designs

For players with braces, future mouthguard designs may incorporate more sophisticated accommodations for orthodontic work. How might these advancements benefit braces-wearing athletes? We may see the development of guards with adjustable regions that can be modified as orthodontic treatment progresses, ensuring a consistent fit throughout the braces-wearing period.

Furthermore, research into biocompatible materials could lead to mouthguards that not only protect against impacts but also actively promote oral health. Imagine guards infused with substances that help prevent tooth decay or reduce orthodontic discomfort – such innovations could revolutionize the way we think about sports mouth protection.

Why Field Hockey Players with Braces Need Special Mouthguards

As a former field hockey player with a mouth full of metal, I learned the hard way that braces and field hockey can be a dangerous combination without the right protection. When that solid plastic ball makes direct contact with your teeth at full speed, it’s game over for your orthodontia investment if you’re not prepared.

The bracket wires and bands wrapping each tooth are sitting ducks without a specially-designed mouthguard in place during competition and practice. A standard mouthguard leaves those braces exposed to receive the full force of an incoming ball or stick. I watched teammates lose brackets and bend wires from decent blows that could’ve been prevented.

A properly fitted field hockey mouthguard covers your braces like a protective case, absorbing and distributing impact while saving your brackets from disaster. Trust me, you’ll regret not wearing one when you’re digging a ball out of your wire retainer after it snaps in half from a slamming shut on impact.

Cushioning Crucial Blows

The main benefit of a field hockey mouthguard for braces is the thick, moldable material that cushions direct hits to the teeth. Quality guards have an extra layer of shock-absorbing thickness in the front to cushion the blow before it reaches your orthodontic gear.

I had yet to find the right balance of cushioning and comfort when I took a rocket from close range right to the metal. My wire retainer bent back, nearly choking me, all because I cheaped out on a thin mouthguard lacking the proper cushioning.

Avoiding Injury Around the Braces

Even incidental bumps and knocks during practice and games can damage braces over time. The brackets securing each wire can pop off from routine mistreatment without sufficient protection from a mouthguard.

Well-covered braces are braces that will survive field hockey intact. The right mouthguard design eliminates exposure around the edges of the brackets by hugging each tooth securely. This avoids costly dental work from unintended impacts.

Managing Discomfort and Breathability

Finding the sweet spot between durability and wearability was the hardest part of my field hockey mouthguard trial and error. Too thin left my teeth vulnerable, but too bulky made breathing a real challenge.

With braces, you need just the right amount of material to avoid biting down on painful brackets and wires. But not so much that you feel choked by a block of solid rubber suffocating your mouth.

I ultimately found success with a moldable design that flattened and thinned near the roof of my mouth. This increased breathability while maintaining cushioning around the brace-loaded teeth.

The Importance of a Custom Fit

Generic mouthguards that aren’t custom-fitted to your smile are a waste of time and leave your braces exposed. I learned this quickly when I tried saving a few bucks on a generic guard from the local sporting goods store.

With braces, you need an impression of your unique bite that captures every edge and corner. This ensures total coverage and protection. Any gaps or misaligned areas put your braces at major risk of damage.

Get fitted by your orthodontist or dentist for a mouthguard that feels like it was built just for you. It’s worth the investment to know your braces are truly protected.

Letting Your Smile Shine Through

As an added bonus, I love that modern field hockey mouthguards come in cool colors and designs. Especially the custom models that use colored dyes in the molding process.

Expressing your style and personality, even with a mouth full of braces, is a confidence booster while protecting your investment on the field. Your brilliant smile shouldn’t have to hide while you play hard and compete.

For field hockey players with braces, the right mouthguard means joyfully baring those pearly whites after an epic goal or win. Don’t jeopardize all your hard work and money spent visiting the orthodontist by neglecting this simple piece of protective gear.

Trust me, taking a ball, stick, or teammate’s shoulder to the teeth is no fun when braces are involved. So do yourself and your smile a favor and guard those brackets the next time you hit the field!

Risk of Injury to Braces and Teeth from Hockey Sticks and Balls

As a lifetime field hockey enthusiast, I’ve seen the damage that can be done by a fast-moving ball or swinging stick without proper mouth protection. When braces enter the equation, the potential for harm increases dramatically.

The brackets glued to each tooth present new angles and edges for impact. A direct hit can sheer off brackets, bend or snap wire retainers, and cause painful trauma to the mouth. Even a pass gone awry can carry enough force to shred braces if teeth are left uncovered.

I once took an unsuspecting elbow to the mouth that broke a bracket clean off its mounting. Had I invested in a mouthguard that fully encased my hardware, the injury could have been avoided. A couple millimeters of cushioning material absorbs a lot of shock against braces.

Even the seasoned players get caught off guard by the occasional stick to the face during intense game action. A stick blade to exposed braces can cause some real carnage that’s difficult and expensive to repair.

Preventing Common Mishaps

Ball impact is the most obvious hazard for any field hockey player with braces. But even chaotic pileups and collisions put your braces in harm’s way. A flailing limb here, a trip and fall there, and even friendly fire from teammates can damage your expensive orthodontic work.

I’ve also had brackets pried loose and bent out of place from something as simple as taking a ball to the face during warmups. The margin of error is so small with braces protruding from the teeth.

A properly fitted mouthguard acts as a shield and absorbs the impact of all kinds of contact. Well-cushioned braces survive the sport intact.

Avoid Discomfort from Bracket Dislodgement

While cosmetic damage is bad enough, loosened brackets can also cut and scrape the inside of your lips and cheeks. Jagged edges left exposed easily become sharp points of pain with each collision.

I had brackets come completely unglued on more than one occasion from the sport. Tiny shards of leftover adhesive then migrated into my gumline, causing extreme discomfort.

Had I prioritized a quality mouthguard, the brackets would have stayed firmly cemented to my teeth instead of penetrating my gums.

Protecting Your Investment

Damaged braces ultimately lead to more dental appointments, procedures, and expenses. Additional aligner trays, stronger wires, bracket replacements, and touch ups quickly negate any initial savings from not buying a proper mouthguard.

Most mouthguard brands designed specifically for braces are affordable enough when you consider the orthodontic investment at stake. Repairing preventable damage costs far more in the long run.

A custom fitted guard tailored to wrap and cushion your unique smile pays for itself quickly at youth and varsity team rates. Don’t learn the financial hard way like I did.

Whether practicing passes or battling for a championship, enter the field confidently knowing your braces are protected from all angles of impact. Focus on the game, not the hardware!

Finding the Right Thickness for Comfort and Protection

One of the trickiest parts of choosing a field hockey mouthguard with braces is finding the ideal thickness that protects without impeding your play.

Too thin and your braces are still vulnerable to damage. But too thick can make breathing a real challenge when you’re already winded from sprinting up and down the field.

I went through at least three different mouthguard styles, including some bulky custom fitted guards, before landing on one with just the right amount of shock-absorbing thickness.

Thinner Isn’t Always Better

Don’t make the mistake I did early on of opting for wafer-thin designs in the name of comfort. All it took was one collision to bend my wire retainer and prove just how ineffective those guards were.

For field hockey, you need substantial thickness to cushion blows from sticks and balls moving at high velocities. Thin, barebones options don’t cut it for braces needing true protection.

Prioritize finding a thickness rated for contact sports over immediate comfort. Your braces will thank you after surviving the first direct hit intact.

Finding the Sweet Spot for Protection

Through much painful trial and error, I learned 3-4mm is typically the minimum thickness required for sufficient protection with braces.

Guards on the thinner end, around 2mm, tended to bottom out on impact and transfer too much force to my brackets and wires.

Over 4mm provided robust protection, but became uncomfortable over the course of a full game as my jaws tired. I found 3.5mm to be the ideal thickness for my needs.

Balancing Breathability

Avoiding mouthguards that are overly thick can help maintain breathability while you run the field for hours.

Look for guards with ventilated design elements, like small holes near the roof of the mouth to allow air flow. Some also flatten out in thickness near the palate area to reduce gagging.

I opted for a customizable model that allowed me to reduce thickness in select areas without compromising protection around the all-important brace zone.

With the right balance of thickness, you can protect those braces and still have the endurance to go the distance on the field.

Don’t settle for a mouthguard that sacrifices protection or breathability. With a solution specifically engineered for your braces, you can have the best of both worlds!

Getting the Perfect Fit for Your Braces and Mouth

Finding a mouthguard that fits your braces perfectly is just as important as the thickness and materials for providing protection. An ill-fitting guard can be almost useless.

I went through a few generic, one-size-fits-all mouthguards before realizing custom was the only way to go with braces. Once I got a mold taken by my orthodontist, the difference was night and day.

Avoiding Gaps Around Braces

The main problem I encountered with generic, non-custom mouthguards was gaps forming around my braces when biting down.

Even slight gaps or openings leave your brackets and wires vulnerable to impact. The whole point is full encapsulation around the braces.

A custom mold captures every contour and edge for a flawless fit. No gaps, no slipping, and no braces exposed.

Cushioning Protruding Braces

Another benefit of custom mouthguards is they account for protruding or irregular braces in the molding process.

I had multiple brackets positioned at odd angles that created uncomfortable pressure points with generic guards. The lab-created custom option had individual spots molded to cushion each protrusion without rub.

Flawlessly smooth protection across every surface of your braces distributes force evenly and comfortably.

Adapting Design for Comfort

Should any comfort issues arise with your custom mouthguard, most companies will tweak the design at no charge.

I had my orthodontist shave down a couple hot spots that were irritating my gums. They re-molded the guard to fit my adjusted braces perfectly.

Don’t settle for discomfort or compromise protection by forcing an ill-fitting guard. Get a precise mold or image of your braces so the perfect guard can be crafted around your smile.

Snug as a bug in a mouthguard rug – that’s how your braces should feel when properly encased. Block out impacts instead of absorbing them directly to the brackets!

Full Face Protection vs Partial Coverage

When researching mouthguards for my braces, I debated whether full face protection or partial coverage would be the best solution.

Full guards extend well beyond the teeth to protect the lips, cheeks, and jaw areas. Partial options focus protection mainly around the teeth and braces.

For maximum safety with braces, I learned the hard way that full protection is non-negotiable.

Shielding Vulnerable Spots

The initial appeal of a partial mouthguard was less bulk and material to restrict breathing. But I quickly realized the extra coverage of a full guard was crucial.

Shots to the cheek or jaw can still impact exposed braces and bend wires even without direct tooth contact. Full protection deflects force away from brackets.

During tournaments when we faced elite teams, I stuck with a full guard after watching shots carom off cheeks and lips into unprotected braces.

Avoiding Dental Disasters

After chipping a tooth on an elbow to the mouth, I became a full protection believer. My partial guard left my front teeth exposed to damage.

Full coverage protects beyond just braces. Shielding the surrounding gums, palate, and delicate dental structures is equally important.

For confidence facing fierce division rivals, a custom full guard is the only way to encase your orthodontic work completely. No need to sacrifice protection for minimal breathing gains.

Breathing Easier

To increase air flow and drink access during games with a full guard, look for minimalist designs with perforations and cut-outs.

Well placed breathing channels and mesh ventilation drastically improve comfort without reducing protection around the critical brace zone.

While partial guards seem enticing for field hockey, take it from my many painful lessons that full protection is a must for braces. Prioritize safety above all else!

Boil and Bite vs Custom Fit Mouthguards

When I first joined field hockey, my dad bought me a boil and bite mouthguard from the local drug store. It seemed like the budget-friendly option for my braces.

After destroying that guard in my very first practice, it quickly became clear a custom fit mouthguard was essential.

Problems With Boil and Bite

The main appeal of a boil and bite guard is the lower price tag. But the lack of customization ended up costing me.

I could never get my braces to fully imprint into the silicone by just biting down. Small gaps were left around the edges of my brackets.

During light contact drills, a teammate’s stick found one of those gaps and snapped a bracket right off the tooth. Lesson learned.

Superior Protection and Comfort

After my orthodontist fitted me with a custom mouthguard molded specifically for my braces, it was a total game-changer.

The lab-created mold wrapped each bracket in a protective cocoon without leaving anything exposed.

By capturing my exact bite imprint, it provided a comfortable, gapless fit that I could wear for hours without irritation.

Perfect Encapsulation

Custom guards provide full encapsulation around each individual bracket, wire, and edge.

The precision molding left no gaps for wayward sticks or balls to sneak in and wreak havoc on my braces.

While more expensive upfront, a custom guard saved me countless orthodontic repair bills in the long run.

Don’t waste time and money on boil and bite guards if you play field hockey with braces. Protect that smile the right way from the start!

Key Features to Look for in a Mouthguard for Braces

Through many mouthguard trials and tribulations, I learned which features are absolute must-haves when protecting braces.

Prioritizing these key qualities will prevent injuries and save you money over your field hockey career:

Full Encapsulation

A mouthguard claiming “brace protection” means nothing without full encapsulation around each individual bracket and wire.

Custom molding that wraps every edge and contour prevents gaps where impacts can reach your hardware.

Shock-Absorbing Thickness

At least 3mm of lab-created cushioning material should separate your braces from ball or stick impacts.

Thin guards absorb minimal force before it transfers directly to your orthodontics.

Comfortable, Custom Fit

Avoid boil-and-bite guards with potential rubbing and pinching around your braces. Get a custom fit.

An impression of your unique bite should ensure a gapless, pain-free fit you can wear for hours.

Full Face Protection

Don’t sacrifice protection for less coverage. Defend your full smile with complete front-face shielding.

This includes lips, cheeks, gums – anywhere impacts could reach braces.

Durability

Look for solid, long-lasting construction from EVA or silicone that withstands season after season of contact.

Avoid cheap, easily torn options that require frequent replacement.

With these must-have features, you can dominate the field confidently knowing your braces are fully protected!

Shock Absorption and Cushioning Material Options

If you play field hockey and have braces, finding the right mouthguard is crucial for protecting your teeth and braces from injury. A proper mouthguard acts as a cushion between your teeth and braces and an incoming stick or ball, absorbing the shock of impact. With so many mouthguard options on the market, it can be tricky finding one that offers maximum protection while being comfortable and allowing you to breathe and communicate on the field. Let’s explore the different shock absorption and cushioning materials used in mouthguards for field hockey players with braces.

Thermoplastic Materials

Thermoplastic mouthguards are the most common type you’ll find. These are made from thermoplastics like ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyvinyl acetate-polyethylene (PVAc-PE) which soften when heated and harden when cooled. Thermoplastic guards offer decent shock absorption. They can be “boil and bite” – softened in hot water then molded to your teeth, or custom made by a dentist. Boil and bite versions are more affordable but don’t fit as well. Custom guards offer better protection, fit and comfort.

Two-Layer Designs

Some mouthguards feature two-layers of shock absorbing materials. An inner soft EVA or vinyl layer provides cushioning. The outer layer is a stiffer, impact-resistant polymer like polyurethane or polyethylene. These guards absorb shock effectively while still allowing you to breathe and talk. They can be boil and bite or custom. Shock Doctor’s Double Braces Strapped Mouthguards are a good example.

Gel Liners

Guards with gel liners offer superior shock absorption and cushioning. The gel contours around teeth and braces, protecting surrounding tissues. Gel also doesn’t harden like thermoplastics which maintains cushioning. These guards can feel bulky though, obstruct breathing/communication, and gel can tear. Guards like Shock Doctor’s Gel Max Convertible Mouthguard provide this extra cushioning and absorb hard hits.

Sorbitol or Poly-Sorbitol Materials

Mouthguards made with sorbitol or poly-sorbitol plastic offer excellent shock absorption due to their soft, flexible, rubbery texture. They mold well around braces without being bulky. However, they tear more easily compared to EVA or PVAc-PE. Guards like Shock Doctor’s Flavored Mouthguard use sorbitol plastic.

Silicone Rubber

Silicone rubber mouthguards provide great cushioning and shock absorption. Silicone is soft and flexible yet durable, absorbing impact without sacrificing protection. Silicone allows easy breathing and communication and molds closely around teeth and braces. But guards made entirely of silicone can be expensive. Combining silicone with an inner EVA or polymer layer reduces cost while still providing cushioning.

Important Considerations for Braces

Here are some important considerations when choosing a field hockey mouthguard to wear with braces:

• Look for thick, shock-absorbing materials to protect braces and teeth.
• Ensure the guard is thick enough to prevent brace brackets from digging into your cheeks/lips.
• Make sure the mouthguard fits snugly and completely covers braces and teeth.
• Select a mouthguard that allows you to breathe, speak, and drink without removing it.
• Consult your orthodontist before using a mouthguard with braces.
• Pick a style that’s easy to put on/take off with braces.
• Consider taste and comfort – some materials may irritate your mouth.
• Carefully maintain your mouthguard to prevent bacterial growth.
• Replace guards at the first sign of wear, tear or poor fit.

Protecting your braces and smile should be a priority on the field hockey pitch. With the right mouthguard material and proper fit, you can play confidently this season knowing your teeth are protected from harm!

Air Flow and Breathability in Braces-Friendly Designs

As the new field hockey season approaches, players with braces face a unique challenge – finding a comfortable, protective mouthguard that fits over their orthodontic hardware. With the fast-paced, high-impact nature of field hockey, a properly fitted mouthguard is essential for avoiding serious dental injuries. However, the brackets and wires of braces can make it difficult to find a mouthguard that fits properly and allows you to breathe freely. Thankfully, several mouthguard manufacturers now offer braces-friendly designs aimed at field hockey players and other brace-faced athletes.

When shopping for a field hockey mouthguard for braces, the most important factors to consider are air flow and breathability. With a mouth full of brackets and wires, you’ll want a roomy mouthguard that does not press tightly against the braces. Look for designs with wide channels along the front and plenty of open space inside. This allows for maximum air circulation and breathing room. You’ll also want a customizable “boil-and-bite” mouthguard that you can carefully mold around your braces for the best individualized fit.

Shock Doctor and SISU make two of the top braces-friendly mouthguards on the market today. Both offer innovative designs that minimize contact with braces while still protecting the teeth, gums, lips and jaw. I recently tested both to see how they compare for field hockey players with braces.

Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard

Shock Doctor is one of the most trusted names in mouthguards, so I was eager to try their braces-specific model. Right away I noticed the huge ventilation slots along the front. With my braces, I need all the breathing room I can get! Molding the mouthguard was a breeze – I just soaked it briefly in hot water, then carefully bit down to imprint my braces pattern into the soft custom material. After trimming off the excess, I had a mouthguard custom-fitted to my smile.

On the field, the Shock Doctor excelled at protecting my teeth while staying comfortable. The large vents prevented the suffocating feeling I get from some mouthguards. During intense game play, I was able to breathe, speak and drink easily without removing the mouthguard. It stayed securely in place even when I took a ball to the face on a penalty corner. While the shock rattled me, the mouthguard absorbed the impact and saved my teeth from harm.

My only complaint is that the material tends to retain odors over time. But some antibacterial mouthwash helps freshen it between games. Overall, I’m impressed with the comfort, protection and breathe-ability this braces mouthguard provides. It’s an excellent choice for field hockey players who need a little extra room for their hardware.

SISU Aero Braces Mouthguard

SISU is the inventor of the perforated mouthguard, and their Aero Braces model takes the breathable concept even further. Right out of the package, I marveled at the thin, incredibly lightweight design. I could barely feel it in my mouth – a welcome change from the bulky guards I’m used to!

Molding took a bit more care because the material is thinner and more flexible. But I ended up with a smooth, seamless fit around my braces. On the field, the perforatedmesh design allowed maximum air movement while forming a protective barrier around my teeth. It felt like I wasn’t wearing anything at all! I could talk, breathe, drink and concentrate without any obstruction or distraction.

Due to the thinner material, I question whether this mouthguard offers as much protection as bulkier designs. It absorbed minor impacts well. But I worry how it would fare if I took a major shot to the mouth. However, the innovative mesh material seems highly effective at dispersing force, so it may hold up better than I imagine. For field hockey, which is not a full-contact sport, the SISU Aero Braces guard provides an excellent balance between protection and comfort.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard for You

Both the Shock Doctor and SISU models worked extremely well for my braces. The Shock Doctor provided a bit more durability and protection, at the cost of some bulkiness and airflow. The SISU sacrificed some protection for incredibly lightweight comfort and freedom of breath. Field hockey players with braces should think carefully about their own needs and preferences before deciding which is better for them.

Beyond these two mouthguards, there are a few other braces-friendly options worth considering. Battle Oxygen Lip Protector offers great breathability thanks to air channels throughout the design. Under Armour ArmourFit features a wide opened front to accommodate brackets and wires. And TapOut Performance Mouthguard uses a featherweight material with adjustable airflow vents.

No matter which mouthguard you choose, always mold and fit it carefully around your braces for maximum comfort and protection. Take the time to adjust it until you have full freedom of breath and speech. With a properly fitted mouthguard, you can play field hockey with confidence knowing your teeth are safe from harm. Don’t let braces sideline you this season – get yourself a braces-friendly mouthguard and get back in the game!

Easy Care and Maintenance Between Games

Finding the ideal field hockey mouthguard for your braces is just the first step. To get the most out of your mouthguard investment, you’ll also need to properly care for it between games. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your custom mouthguard will last longer and provide better protection throughout the season.

One of the biggest complaints about mouthguards is the lingering odor that develops over time. That unpleasant smell comes from bacteria buildup as the guard traps food particles, saliva and other debris. Luckily, keeping your mouthguard fresh is as simple as washing it after each use. Use mild soap and cool (not hot) water, scrubbing both the inner and outer surfaces.

For a deeper clean, gently brush the mouthguard with a soft toothbrush to dislodge stuck-on gunk. An antibacterial mouthwash like Listerine can also help kill germs and eliminate odors. Allow the guard to air dry completely before storing to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Between games, keep your mouthguard in a well-ventilated plastic container or special mouthguard case. Avoid closing it inside an airtight bag or pouch. This allows moisture to evaporate and prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

What about caring for your mouthguard during an intense game? First, resist the urge to chew or bite down excessively on the guard – this can distort the protective shape. When not in use, the best place to store it is in your helmet’s facemask. This prevents loss or damage from stepping or falling on it accidentally.

If you need hydration during a game, rinse your mouth and the mouthguard briefly with water before re-inserting. Avoid swallowing repeatedly with the guard in place as this rapidly spreads bacteria around your mouth. And NEVER share your mouthguard with other players – this is an easy way to transfer illness-causing germs.

In addition to game day cleanings, give your mouthguard a thorough weekly disinfecting to keep bacteria at bay. Soak it for 30-60 minutes in denture cleaner, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, or an antiseptic mouthwash. These solutions will kill germs and help your mouthguard maintain its protective powers.

Check Monthly for Damage

The physical impacts of field hockey can take a toll on your mouthguard over time. That’s why it’s wise to examine it at least monthly for tears, cracks, or other damage. Even small flaws in the material can compromise its protective abilities.

Press along the edges to ensure a tight seal with no gaps or loose spots. Look inside and out for thin areas, rips, embedded dirt or debris. If you notice any structural damage, it’s time to replace it with a fresh mouthguard. Trying to get “one more game” out of a worn-out mouthguard is a risky move.

Plan to get a new mouthguard every season, or sooner if you notice damage. The inexpensive cost of a new guard is a wise investment compared to pricey dental repair bills!

Have Braces Adjusted?

One final tip for mouthguard maintenance – get a quick refit after every orthodontist visit. As your braces are adjusted and tightened, the shape of your mouth changes. This can cause your mold to fit loosely or feel uncomfortable until you remold the mouthguard to the new braces configuration.

Don’t play with an ill-fitting “hand-me-down” from earlier braces alignments. Take a few minutes to immerse the mouthguard in hot water and carefully remold it to your new smile. This ensures maximum protection and comfort at a time when your teeth may be sore or tender.

By taking proper care of your field hockey mouthguard, you’ll get the most out of its protective power and save money by extending its usable lifespan. Regular cleaning, disinfecting, storage and damage checks will help it last through many games this season. Pair your durable mouthguard with sound braces care, and you’ll be smiles ahead on the field!

Youth and Junior Sizes for Younger Players

In field hockey, protective equipment like mouthguards isn’t just necessary for older competitors. Young athletes also deserve the best oral protection available. Fortunately, many leading mouthguard brands now offer youth and junior sizes tailored for smaller mouths.

The typical “one size fits all” mouthguard is designed based on average adult dental anatomy. But children and early teens have smaller jaws and fewer teeth. An oversized, ill-fitting mouthguard is not only uncomfortable, but also fails to protect their emerging smiles.

Look for a mouthguard labeled as “youth” for elementary and middle school aged players. These have reduced dimensions and thickness to accommodate younger mouths. “Junior” sized guards are ideal for high school freshman and sophomore players who still need a smaller fit.

Several mouthguard companies now offer 3 separate sizes: adult, youth and junior. This allows you to select the size that aligns best with your child’s current dental development stage.

Brace Faced Kids

Young athletes who wear braces face additional sizing challenges. The brackets, bands and wires of orthodontic hardware take up space in the mouth, so a Braces-friendly design with extra room is essential. Combining this with a youth or junior size ensures your brace faced kid gets a comfortably snug fit.

When molding any custom mouthguard for a child, carefully oversee the process to avoid burns from hot water. Explain that they should bite down gently, not clench tightly, as the material cools. With your guidance, they’ll end up with a properly fitted guard offering full dental protection.

Encourage Responsible Use

A properly sized youth mouthguard is just the starting point. Young players also need education on wearing their oral protection consistently and properly. Be sure to explain the consequences of playing without a mouthguard, like dental trauma, mouth cuts and even concussions.

Kids often see pro athletes playing “tough guy” roles without guards during games. But emphasizing that pros train for years to minimize risk, while youth players are still mastering skills and coordination, helps put things in perspective.

Discourage chewing or biting down on the mouthguard, which can weaken the material and distort the fit. Demonstrate how to check for proper positioning before play starts, and remind them to refit it after drinking water on the sidelines.

With your guidance and encouragement, young athletes will form good mouthguard habits that keep their smiles protected as they develop into seasoned competitors.

Additional Protection

For young goalkeepers, consider adding even more protection by pairing a mouthguard with a goalie helmet that incorporates a full face mask. Brands like Bauer and CCM offer eye-shielded helmets designed specifically for goalies.

The wise addition of a protective mask helps deflect dangerously deflected shots away from the face and neck region. Some masks even allow enough room to wear a mouthguard underneath for reinforced protection.

For field players, look for thin, lightweight, and breathe-able mouthguard models that won’t overheat young mouths or interfere with breathing. Allow them to test different styles during practices to find the most comfortable fit that provides confidence heading into games.

Today’s youth and junior mouthguard options allow players of all ages to take the field protected. With the right size, fit and consistent use, your kid’s pearly whites will be prepared for whatever comes their way this season!

Adult Sizes for Older Players with Full Braces

While mouthguards for younger athletes get much of the attention, there’s a growing need for adult sizes that accommodate mature players with full braces. With more adults correcting smiles later in life, demand has increased for protective mouthguards that fit around extensive hardware.

Traditional boil-and-bite guards are designed around the 32 permanent teeth of a typical adult mouth. But add in the brackets, wires, elastic bands and other components of comprehensive braces, and space becomes limited.

This is where an “adult” sized mouthguard with additional room, airflow and flexible customization comes in handy. Brands like Shock Doctor, Brain Pad and Sisu now offer mouthguards especially geared toward the crowded smiles of adult brace wearers.

Finding the Perfect Fit

The goal is balancing protection for the teeth, gums and jaw with a comfortable fit that doesn’t press tightly on the braces. Prioritize boil-and-bite guards with moldable materials that you can fine-tune around brackets and wires.

Focus on getting an accurate imprint of your upper teeth, as these take the brunt of impacts. Carefully seat the mouthguard before biting down gently but firmly while sucking out excess water. Precise molding prevents slipping and keeps the guard securely in place.

For a fully customized pro-style fit, ask your orthodontist to make dental impressions that a lab can use to fabricate an exact-match guard. But this costs more and takes weeks, so boil-and-bite is the convenience choice.

Open Front Designs

Extra breathing room is a priority for players with a mouth packed with hardware. Look for wide open front-channel designs that minimize contact with the braces. Shock Doctor’s Braces Mouthguard provides a huge frontal opening for air flow.

Open spaces along the guard edges are also useful design features. This avoids excessive material bulk around the sides of the mouth and reduces irritation of cheek tissue.

While protection remains important, comfort and fit issues are magnified with braces. Prioritizing mouths guards engineered specifically to accommodate braces results in the best game day experience.

Caring for Your Custom Braces Guard

A custom molded mouthguard designed for your unique braces setup requires some extra care and maintenance. Follow these tips to get the most out of your investment:

– Rinse after each use and brush with soft toothbrush to remove debris
– Disinfect weekly with antiseptic cleaners to control bacteria

– Examine for tears, holes or damage before each use
– Protect when not in use to avoid deformation

– Refit after braces adjustments for continued snug fit

Take time before each game to ensure proper fit and placement. Remolding over time may be needed as your braces alignment evolves. With attentive care and molding refinements, an adult braces mouthguard becomes like a second set of protective hardware!

Confidence on the Field

A crowded mouth of braces hardware makes mouth protection more critical than ever. Thankfully, mouthguard manufacturers now recognize the need for models catering to brace-faced players of all ages.

With an adult sized mouthguard customized to your braces, you can take the field this season with full confidence your smile is protected. Focus on your game knowing your mouthguard has you covered!

High Quality Brands Used by Orthodontists

As summer turns to fall, field hockey season is upon us. For players wearing braces, protecting your mouth during those hard hits and high sticks is more important than ever. Getting smacked in the teeth can damage your orthodontics, leading to lost wires, broken brackets, and even tooth injuries. But fear not, braceface, today’s high-tech mouthguards can keep you smiling all season long!

I’ve scoured the options and found the top 5 field hockey mouthguards recommended by orthodontists and dental professionals. With their innovative designs and slim profiles, these mouthguards allow you to talk, breathe, and drink without removing. No more spit-soaked guards sitting on the bench!

Shock Doctor Double Braces Strapless Mouthguard

Shock Doctor is one of the leading manufacturers of athletic mouthguards. Their double braces strapless guard provides lightweight protection with dual-layer construction. The outer layer absorbs impact while the inner layer evenly distributes it. With its integrated breathing channel, Under Armour’s ArmourFit material stays comfy all game long. The double braces design fits securely around both upper and lower alignments with no irritating straps.

Several of my orthodontist friends swear by this mouthguard for their patients. They find it fits better and stays in place without being bulky or inhibiting breathing compared to other options. If you want a slim, adjustable guard from an established brand, this is a great choice.

SISU Aero 1.6 NextGen Mouthguard

SISU guards are rising in popularity thanks to their unique perforated design. Over 60 micro-perforations make the NextGen ultra-breathable and enables you to talk strategize with teammates. The diffusix polymer material is durable yet flexible, absorbing impacts through deformation.

Unlike bulky alternatives, the 1.6mm thickness won’t make you look or feel like you have a mouth full of marshmallows. SISU even offers a braces warranty – if an orthodontist finds the guard damaged your braces, they’ll cover the repair costs up to $1500. Hard to beat that!

Under Armour ArmourFit Mouthguard

With braces, you need a mouthguard that fits like a glove. Under Armour’s ArmourFit technology uses a unique molding process to create custom-fit personal protection. After a quick 30-second boil and bite fitting, the medical-grade silicone conforms exactly to your smile. The result is a snug, gap-free guard that stays locked in.

Ventilation ports make breathing easy while the soft, smooth texture won’t irritate your lips. Priced lower than custom guards, the ArmourFit offers total comfort with no slippage. For braces-wearers wanting a personalized fit without the dental office visit, this is a winning choice.

Battle Oxygen Lip Protector

Breaking from tradition, Battle Sports takes a totally different approach with their Oxygen lip protector. Only covering your top row of teeth, it provides ultimate breathability and communication capabilities. The extended lip guard protects against high sticks and defslects impacts away from your pearly whites.

While leaving your lower teeth exposed could be concerning, Battle uses OxyShock foam technology to absorb force. And at only 1.5mm thick, the Oxygen lip protector is so slim and flexible you can drink water easily without removing it. If you dislike bulky full guards, give this innovative option a shot.

Pro-Tekt Youth Gel Dental Mouthguard

Protecting young smiles is what Pro-Tekt does best. Their youth gel guard uses a soft gel-fit liner for unrivaled comfort. It cushions blows and provides a protective barrier between your brackets and the competition.

With its orthodontic channel design, you get a secure brace-friendly fit even as your treatment progresses. At a budget-friendly price, the Pro-Tekt is a smart choice for junior high and high school athletes wanting basic inexpensive protection.

While mouth injuries typically aren’t season-ending, they can rack up major dental bills and time away from the field. Protect your pearly whites so you can play hard all season long. With advances in materials and designs, today’s mouthguards are barely noticeable and can be worn comfortably all game. Give one of these top braces-friendly guards a try to keep your smile intact no matter what comes your way out on the field!

Protecting Your Investment in Orthodontia

Strap on your shin guards and grab your stick, field hockey season is here! For players with braces, you’ve invested significant time and money into straightening your smile. Now it’s time to protect that investment when stepping onto the competitive turf. A mouthguard is a must to keep your orthodontics intact and avoid painful (and expensive!) damage.

With today’s high-tech options, braces-friendly guards are barely noticeable and can be worn without discomfort. I’ve done the research and compiled the top 5 to keep your teeth protected and your wallet intact. Say goodbye to dislodged wires and broken brackets, and hello to carefree competition!

Shock Doctor Double Braces Strapless Mouthguard

Known for advanced protection, Shock Doctor’s double braces guard provides a secure fit. The innovative strapless design eliminates irritation while dual-layer construction absorbs impacts. With an integrated breathing channel, you’ll stay comfortable all game long.

Many orthos recommend this guard because of its ability to conform closely to misaligned teeth without being bulky. If you want reliable protection from an established brand, Shock Doctor is a smart choice.

SISU Aero 1.6 NextGen Mouthguard

With its unique perforated design, the SISU NextGen delivers ultimate breathability. Over 60 micro-perforations allow easy talking and drinking without removing the guard. The flexible polymer material absorbs impacts through deformation instead of your teeth!

Slim at just 1.6mm thick, SISU provides protection without the bulky feeling. An orthodontic warranty up to $1500 gives peace of mind. Overall, a great braces-friendly option.

Under Armour ArmourFit Custom-Fit Guard

For players with braces, a gap-free fit is essential. Under Armour’s ArmourFit uses an impression molding process to create a custom athletic guard in minutes. The medical-grade silicone conforms exactly to your unique smile.

With ventilation ports for easy breathing and a smooth texture that won’t irritate lips, this guard offers total comfort and stays locked into place. Without the dental office visit, it’s a budget-friendly way to get a personalized fit.

Battle Oxygen Lip Protector

Ditching the typical full-guard design, Battle’s Oxygen protector only covers the upper teeth but still absorbs impacts. The extended lip shield protects against high sticks while allowing complete breathability.

Leaving lower teeth exposed is concerning, but OxyShock foam technology diffuses blows. Ultra-slim at 1.5mm, drinking and talking are easy. This innovative option eliminates bulk.

Pro-Tekt Youth Gel Dental Guard

Protecting young athletes is Pro-Tekt’s specialty. Their gel guard has a soft liner for unmatched comfort. It cushions impacts and keeps your orthodontics protected.

With its braces-friendly channel design, the Pro-Tekt stays securely in place as treatment progresses. Affordable and effective, it’s great for adolescents wanting basic protection.

While mouth injuries can mean major $$$, today’s mouthguards alleviate that worry. With advanced slim designs, protection for your braces and teeth is now comfortable and hassle-free. Consider one of these top-rated options to step onto the field this season with confidence your bright smile is protected!

Playing Field Hockey Safely and Confidently with Braces

Fall brings that familiar sound of stick hitting ball as field hockey season starts up. If you’re an avid player wearing braces, protecting your orthodontic investment is essential when competing. A mouthguard can alleviate worries of smashed brackets, lost wires, and tooth damage.

With options designed specifically for braces, you can play confidently without sacrificing performance. I’ve researched the top mouthguards loved by orthodontists to keep you smiling every time you walk off the field.

Shock Doctor Double Braces Strapless Guard

Known for premium protection, Shock Doctor created an innovative strapless mouthguard ideal for braces. It stays securely in place without irritating hardware, while the dual-layer design absorbs impacts.

Many orthodontists recommend this guard for its ability to conform closely around misaligned teeth without being bulky. For reliable protection, it’s a winning choice.

SISU Aero 1.6 NextGen Guard

With tiny perforations throughout, the SISU NextGen delivers ultimate breathability critical for high-cardio sports like field hockey. You can easily talk and drink without removing it.

The slim 1.6mm profile eliminates a bulky feeling, while the flexible polymer material diffuses impacts. An orthodontic warranty provides peace of mind.

Under Armour ArmourFit Custom Fit Guard

Braces require a completely gap-free fit, and Under Armour delivers with its ArmourFit technology. Through an impression molding process, the medical-grade silicone forms to your unique orthodontic smile.

With ventilation ports for easy breathing and a non-irritating texture, this custom-like guard stays locked into place during play. All at a price lower than visiting your orthodontist.

Battle Oxygen Lip Protector

Reinventing traditional designs, Battle created the Oxygen lip protector that only covers the upper teeth. Extremely breathable and easy to talk with, the extended lip shield still absorbs impacts.

While less coverage can be concerning, the OxyShock foam manages blows. Ultra-slim at just 1.5mm, you’ll forget you’re even wearing it.

Pro-Tekt Youth Gel Guard

Pro-Tekt makes protection for young athletes their mission. Their gel guard has a soft liner for unparalleled comfort. It acts as a barrier between your orthodontics and the action on the field.

The braces-friendly channel design keeps it securely in place as treatment progresses. Ideal for adolescents wanting basic affordable protection.

With advanced mouthguard technology, you can play field hockey with confidence knowing your braces are protected. Focus on the competition, not what a dental disaster might cost. Consider one of these orthodontist-recommended options to compete safely this season!