You might be wondering whether you need a mouthguard now that you have braces.
Your teeth are no more susceptible to injury now than before your braces were fitted, but your lips might get hurt if they are pushed against your braces. We recommend that you wear a mouthguard for any contact sport whether you wear braces or not.
What type do I need?
A custom-made mouthguard is best. It is vacuum-formed on a mould of your own teeth for an accurate fit. We take care to block out any areas where your teeth might be moving in the near future so that your mouthguard will last you all season. You’ll probably need a new one next season – by then you’ll have a whole new set of teeth! If any of your baby teeth fall out or new adult teeth come through this year, just bring your mouthguard along to your next appointment so that Dr Jude can adjust it for you.
When should I wear it?
Whenever you are playing a contact sport, even if you are only practising – this is often when accidents happen. Don’t forget to lift the front edge of your mouthguard over your braces when you are putting it in and taking it out. If you don’t do this, chances are that you will break one of your front braces by pushing on it too much.
How do I look after it?
When not in use store your mouthguard on its mould to keep its shape and keep it in its protective box. Don’t leave it on hot surfaces like the car dashboard or the home hot water system. It is made of thermoplastic material and will soften with heat. After it has been worn rinse the mouthguard in cold water. Every now and then you can freshen it up by brushing it with your toothbrush and toothpaste or by soaking it in diluted mouthwash.
Is it a guarantee?
Just as a car seatbelt will not prevent all injuries, a mouthguard also cannot guarantee that dental injuries won’t happen. A mouthguard will, however, greatly lessen the degree of injury. In most minor bumps a mouthguard will prevent any damage being done to your jaw joints, teeth and soft tissues. Many teeth have been saved by mouthguards and many have been unnecessarily lost because a mouthguard was not being worn!
For more information on custom fit mouthguards, please click here to contact us today.
