Orthodontics and Sports: Protecting Your Smile on the Field 

Having braces is a life-changing moment, but that doesn’t mean your entire life has to change. If you are an active person involved in sports before beginning orthodontic treatment, you don’t have to stop just because you have braces. You do, however, have to take certain precautions to protect your mouth.

How To Protect Your Mouth During Sports – And Why It Matters 

Sports-related accidents are one of the most common causes of dental injury, with or without braces. Injuries may include chipped or cracked teeth, root fractures, loosening of teeth, and tooth avulsion, where the tooth is completely knocked out. Athletes with braces have an increased risk of cuts to the lips and inside of the mouth upon impact. Damaged appliances can also interfere with treatment, increasing timeline, cost, or efficacy.

A common and effective way to protect your mouth is with a properly fitted mouthguard. The main types of mouthguards available include:

• Custom-Fit: Custom-fit mouthguards are created by a dentist using a mold of your mouth. This type creates the best fit, comfort and overall protection. It’s an excellent choice for any use, but particularly for those participating in high-impact sports.
• Boil & Bite: Boil-and-Bite mouthguards can be found at sporting goods or retail stores. After softening the material in hot water, this flexible option is molded to your teeth for a semi-custom fit. While they provide moderately good protection, the fit and comfort aren’t on the same level as a custom-fit mouthguard.
• Stock: Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and meant to be worn as is. While they are the most affordable option, they are often uncomfortable and offer less protection due to poor fit.

It’s no surprise that a custom-fit mouthguard is the ideal choice for athletes when it comes to the best protection. Once you receive your custom mouthguard, it should be properly taken care of to ensure longevity and better protection. To maintain your custom mouthguard:

• Keep It Clean: When you’re done using your mouthguard, be sure to rinse it off with water. For a more thorough clean, lightly brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Store it Properly: When not in use, store your mouthguard in a ventilated case.
• Avoid Heat: Be careful where you leave your mouthguard. It should never be left in direct sunlight or have contact with hot water due to risk of warping.
• Inspect It: Regularly check your mouthguard for signs of tears or other damage. Bring it with you to your dental appointments to make sure the fit remains accurate.

Improve and Protect Your Smile with Jaffe Orthodontics 

Jaffe Orthodontics is committed to providing our patients with the best orthodontic care in the Barrington and Portsmouth areas. Not only do we strive to do this through a variety of available dental reatment options, but by also making sure patients are fully informed with the best ways to take care of their braces – both in general and while participating in sports.

It’s important to visit your dentist to get a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your mouth. Play with confidence while protecting your investment. To learn more custom-fitted mouthguards or the available orthodontic options we offer, please schedule an appointment with Jaffe Orthodontics today!

Share on