If you play a contact sport or participate in an activity for which there is the potential for trauma, we recommend wearing a mouthguard for that activity. The type of mouthguard recommended will depend upon where you are in your dental development and orthodontic treatment. Below are some official recommendations, a description of the types of mouthguards, and our reasoning for recommending certain ones at certain times.
Why Are Mouthguards So Important?
According to dental and sports safety organizations, athletes who do not wear mouthguards are significantly more likely to experience dental injuries.
Potential benefits of wearing a properly fitted mouthguard include:
- Protection against chipped and fractured teeth
- Reduced risk of tooth loss
- Protection for lips, cheeks, and gums
- Reduced risk of jaw injuries
- Additional cushioning during impact
Many dental injuries occur during sports where mouthguards are not always required, including baseball, softball, soccer, basketball, and cheerleading.
Which Sports Should Use a Mouthguard?
The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for a wide variety of sports and recreational activities.
Examples include:
- Football
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Soccer
- Basketball
- Wrestling
- Martial arts
- Volleyball
- Rugby
- Skateboarding
- Skiing
- Gymnastics
- Surfing
Even activities not traditionally considered contact sports can involve accidental collisions and facial injuries.
Types of Mouthguards
Several types of mouthguards are available, each offering different levels of fit and protection.
Stock Mouthguards
These pre-made mouthguards are available at sporting goods stores and are ready to wear immediately. While affordable, they generally provide the least customized fit.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These mouthguards soften in hot water and are molded to the teeth at home. They provide a better fit than stock mouthguards and are a popular option for growing children.
Custom Vacuum-Formed Mouthguards
These are fabricated from a model of the patient’s teeth and offer improved comfort and fit compared to over-the-counter alternatives.
Custom Pressure-Laminated Mouthguards
This is the highest level of protection available and the type recommended for patients who have completed orthodontic treatment.
These mouthguards:
- Provide exceptional fit and comfort
- Achieve optimal protective thickness
- Offer superior durability
- Help protect your orthodontic investment
At Moorestown Orthodontics, we fabricate custom pressure-laminated mouthguards in-house for eligible patients.
What Type of Mouthguard Should You Wear During Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment presents unique challenges because teeth are actively moving.
Traditional custom-fitted mouthguards can quickly become inaccurate as teeth shift throughout treatment. For this reason, orthodontic mouthguards are typically recommended for patients wearing braces.
These specially designed mouthguards:
- Accommodate tooth movement
- Fit comfortably over braces
- Help protect brackets and wires
- Reduce the risk of injury during sports
As part of treatment, orthodontic mouthguards are available for our patients when needed.
Mouthguards for Children
Children who are still losing baby teeth and developing their permanent dentition often benefit from boil-and-bite mouthguards.
Because young mouths change rapidly, custom mouthguards may require frequent replacement. Boil-and-bite mouthguards provide a practical and cost-effective solution during these years.
Protect Your Smile for Years to Come
Your smile is a valuable investment. Whether you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment or have already completed treatment, the right mouthguard can help protect your teeth from injury and preserve your results.
At Moorestown Orthodontics, we are happy to help determine which type of mouthguard is most appropriate for your age, activity level, and stage of dental development.
Frequently Asked Questions
A properly fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to protect your smile during sports and recreational activities. Here are answers to some common questions about mouthguard use and dental safety.
Can I wear a mouthguard if I have braces?
Absolutely. In fact, athletes with braces should be especially diligent about wearing a mouthguard. An orthodontic mouthguard helps protect both your teeth and orthodontic appliances from injury during sports and physical activities.
Do mouthguards really help prevent dental injuries?
Yes. Mouthguards are designed to absorb and distribute the force of an impact, helping reduce the risk of chipped teeth, broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and other dental trauma. They are considered one of the most effective forms of protection for athletes.
Should mouthguards be worn during practices or only during games?
Dental organizations recommend wearing a mouthguard during both practices and competitions. Many sports injuries occur during practice sessions when athletes may be less likely to use protective equipment.
Can a mouthguard help protect teeth after orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Once braces or clear aligner treatment is complete, a properly fitted mouthguard can help protect the investment you’ve made in your smile by reducing the risk of sports-related dental injuries.
Where can athletes get a custom sports mouthguard in Moorestown, NJ?
Moorestown Orthodontics provides custom sports mouthguards for eligible patients who have completed orthodontic treatment. Athletes from Moorestown, Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, Marlton, and surrounding Burlington County communities trust custom-fitted mouthguards to help protect their smiles during sports, recreation, and competition.
