The Moving Target of Orthodontic Treatment
If you or your child wears braces, you already know that orthodontic treatment is all about change. This is where having a re-mouldable mouthguard can make a real difference.
Teeth gradually move into new positions throughout treatment. While this is exactly what orthodontic treatment is designed to achieve, it can create a practical challenge when it comes to wearing a sports mouthguard.
A mouthguard that fitted well earlier in treatment will fit differently as the teeth move. For a broader overview of mouthguards during orthodontic treatment, see our complete guide to sports mouthguards for braces.
Why Mouthguard Fit Can Change During Braces Treatment
There are 3 different types of mouthguards available for athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment.
1. A professionally made dental mouthguard which is formed to the position of the teeth at the time it is made. Because it cannot be re-moulded once formed, changes in tooth position during orthodontic treatment affect how it fits.
For a closer comparison, see NeoMorph Remouldable vs Dental-made Mouthguards.
2. Non-mouldable mouthguards are generally supplied in a pre-formed shape and cannot be moulded to the individual teeth or orthodontic appliances. Some are designed with additional space or channels to accommodate braces, but they do not adapt closely to the wearer’s individual tooth positions.
As teeth move throughout orthodontic treatment, these mouthguards cannot be reshaped to accommodate those changes. Their generic fit can affect retention and comfort, with some wearers needing to clench to keep the mouthguard in place.
3. Mouldable over-the-counter mouthguards offer more flexibility, although many manufacturers note that their mouthguards are not suitable for braces. In addition, the ability to be re-moulded varies dramatically between products.
If you are in the market for a mouthguard specifically for braces or aligners then ensure the packaging notes that it is re-mouldable and suitable for braces.
For athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment, the important thing is to choose a mouthguard specifically designed for use with fixed braces, or aligners, and one that can adapt as the teeth move.
Engineered for Change: Re-Mouldable Up to 10 Times
NeoMorph Prodigy® was initially developed for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment and is re-mouldable up to 10 times.
This means that as teeth change position and the fit of the mouthguard changes, NeoMorph can be heated and re-moulded around the new tooth position to help maintain a secure fit, comfort and protection.
Follow the orthodontic fitting instructions when fitting or re-moulding NeoMorph around fixed braces or bonded attachments.
This adaptability was an important part of the NeoMorph design.
Neomorph’s patented interlocking triple-layer design allows the entire mouthguard to mould together as one integrated structure. When heated, the inner NCore® layer moulds closely around the teeth and becomes semi-rigid as it cools. This holds Neomorph’s fitted shape securely and assists in dispersing impact energy. The interlocking design ensures the softer outer EVA cushioning layers follow the contours of the NCore® layer, allowing them to also conform closely around the teeth and orthodontic appliances. These softer layers provide cushioning between the upper and lower teeth and help protect the surrounding lips and cheeks from contact with teeth, brackets and wires.
For those undergoing orthodontic treatment, being able to re-mould the same mouthguard provides a practical way of maintaining a secure fit as the mouth changes.
Protecting Both Teeth and Investment
Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in both time and money, and athletes need to protect their teeth while treatment is underway.
They also need a mouthguard that works with the reality of orthodontics. Teeth are moving and a mouthguard worn during this time needs to accommodate those changes.
NeoMorph Prodigy® was designed by a dental clinician with orthodontic experience and is suitable with braces or clear aligner attachments (remove your aligners before fitting and wearing).
At approximately 3.5 mm, its fully mouldable triple-layer design provides a secure custom-like fit. Neomorph does not contain any non-mouldable hard, bulky bits, and offers the ability to re-mould up to 10 times to accommodate tooth movement throughout orthodontic treatment.
A suitable re-mouldable mouthguard can offer a practical option for maintaining a secure fit, comfort, protection and adaptability all of which are particularly valuable for athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can you re-mould a mouthguard with braces?
Only if the manufacturer says it’s suitable for braces and can be re-moulded. NeoMorph Prodigy® can be re-moulded up to 10 times, following the orthodontic fitting instructions.
How do I know when to re-mould my mouthguard?
When it no longer seats fully, feels tight or loose, or puts pressure on particular teeth. Re-mould the day before you play, so you’re not rushed.
Does a dental-made mouthguard adapt as teeth move?
No. It’s made to your teeth at one point in time, so it may need professional adjustment or replacement as treatment progresses.
Conclusion: A Guard That Keeps Up With Your Smile
Orthodontic treatment changes the position of your teeth so you will need a mouthguard that is able to accommodate those changes.
A re-mouldable mouthguard gives athletes that flexibility.
The NeoMorph Prodigy® Mouthguard was designed by a dental clinician to solve the concerns that many patients complained about with traditional over-the-counter mouthguards – poor fit, bulkiness and discomfort. In addition, Neomorph can be worn with orthodontic appliances and re-moulded up to 10 times, making it a practical and adaptable mouthguard for athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment.
