Wearing braces or aligners (clear plates with attachments) is a significant commitment, both in terms of time and finances. Protecting your investment and ensuring the smooth progress of your orthodontic treatment is essential, especially during physical activities or sports. That’s where a good mouthguard comes into play. It can help prevent damage to your teeth, lips, cheeks, and orthodontic appliances while also being relatively comfortable. Until now, finding the right mouthguard for braces or aligners could be a daunting task. In this blog post, we’ll explore what to look for in a mouthguard designed for orthodontic patients and how the Neomorph Mouthguard fits the bill.
Mouldable and Adjustable Design
The key to an effective mouthguard for braces or aligners is its ability to be re-mouldable so it can be re- adjusted as your teeth move throughout treatment. This will ensure a secure fit throughout your orthodontic journey. Non-mouldable mouthguards or mouthguards that don’t mould very well are often bulky, uncomfortable and can move or even dislodge on impact. The Neomorph Prodigy mouthguard is re-mouldable up to 10 times.
Adequate Coverage
A mouthguard for braces or aligners should offer comprehensive coverage, safeguarding not just your teeth but also the brackets or attachments from the aligners. It should extend to cover your upper teeth and the orthodontic appliances themselves.
The Neomorph Mouthguard is perfectly sized for anyone aged 12+ and wearing braces or attachments.
If you do boxing or have a protruded lower jaw ( i.e your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth) you may need to consider wearing a mouthguard on your lower arch.
Comfort is Key
Comfort is important. Wearing a mouthguard should not cause discomfort or hinder your ability to speak and breathe. While wearing a mouthguard with braces will be fuller to incorporate the braces/attachments, it should fit comfortably and not dig in anywhere or move. The Neomorph mouthguard is entirely mouldable so the whole mouthguard will adjust to your mouth shape. It was designed specifically for sportspeople wearing braces or aligners/attachments.
Sufficient Thickness
Protection against impact forces is paramount, especially for individuals with braces or aligners. The brackets or aligners can make the soft tissues of your mouth, i.e lips and cheeks, more vulnerable to damage. Your mouthguard should have sufficient thickness to provide the necessary protection. A good mouthguard should be approx. 3mm thick to absorb and disperse (spread the load of) impact forces.
The Neomorph Prodigy mouthguard is 3.5 mm thick and designed to protect.
Easy to Clean
Oral hygiene is crucial. Mouthguards can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned properly. Look for a mouthguard that is easy to clean, ensuring that you can maintain good oral hygiene effortlessly.
Durability Matters
Mouthguards for braces or aligners should be robust and capable of withstanding the rigors of physical activity or sports. They should endure the clenching forces that may occur during sports without losing their protective capabilities. However mouthguards are not designed to withstand grinding forces and may need to be replaced regularly if you find you are wearing away your mouthguard or it is delaminating.
Compatibility is Key
Carefully follow the fitting instructions, and look for clear indications that the mouthguard is compatible with braces or aligners. Opt for a mouthguard that offers multiple remoulding opportunities, allowing you to adjust it as your orthodontic treatment progresses. Avoid mouthguards with soft gel inserts, as they are not typically re-mouldable and may not be recommended to wear with orthodontic appliances. Some mouthguards are made from materials that are harder than traditional mouthguard materials and may require a barrier when fitting to protect the mouthguard from adhering to the braces. Be sure to read the instructions for these very carefully to prevent having to have them removed by the dentists or orthodontist.
Types of Mouthguards:
When it comes to mouthguards, there are different types to choose from. For a detailed breakdown of these types, be sure to check out our blog post on “Types of Mouthguards.”
Our Top Pick: The Neomorph Mouthguard
In our opinion, the Neomorph Mouthguard stands out as the best choice for individuals wearing braces or aligners. Developed by a dental hygienist specialising in orthodontics, this mouthguard was designed with orthodontic patients in mind. Its comfort, custom fit and protective capabilities make it an ideal choice for those undergoing orthodontic treatment. The Neomorph Mouthguard can also be remoulded up to 10 times, making it a lasting solution throughout your orthodontic journey.
In Conclusion:
When in search of the perfect mouthguard for braces or aligners, prioritise a mouldable and adjustable design, ample coverage, comfort, sufficient thickness, ease of cleaning, and durability. With the right mouthguard, you can safeguard your investment in orthodontic treatment, and stay safe and protected during your sporting activities.
Education is key to knowing what to look for in a good quality mouthguard when undergoing orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners). We hope you now have a better understanding to ensure your dental protection won’t be compromised.