Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your smile, but staying active during treatment means protecting that investment. For patients in Miramar, FL who participate in sports or physical activities, orthodontic mouthguards play a critical role in preventing injuries and avoiding treatment setbacks.
Whether you wear braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances, a properly fitted mouthguard helps shield your teeth, gums, and lips from impact. Without protection, a single accident can lead to broken brackets, damaged aligners, or painful soft tissue injuries.
What Is an Orthodontic Mouthguard?
An orthodontic mouthguard is a protective oral appliance designed specifically for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Unlike standard sports mouthguards, orthodontic mouthguards are made to fit comfortably over braces or accommodate aligners without interfering with treatment.
These guards are crafted from flexible, shock-absorbing materials that protect both the teeth and orthodontic hardware while reducing the risk of cuts, bruising, or appliance damage during physical activity.
Why Athletes With Braces Need Extra Protection
Traditional braces include brackets and wires that can cause serious injuries during sports. An impact to the mouth can force brackets into the lips or cheeks, leading to painful cuts or swelling. Wires may bend or break, delaying treatment and requiring emergency visits.
Clear aligner patients face different risks. Aligners are not designed to absorb sports-related impact, and wearing them without additional protection can result in cracked trays or injured teeth. Removing aligners without wearing a mouthguard leaves teeth fully exposed to injury.
Who Should Wear an Orthodontic Mouthguard?
Any patient with braces or aligners who participates in physical activity should consider wearing a mouthguard. This includes both contact and non-contact sports, as falls and collisions can occur unexpectedly.
- Contact sports — Football, basketball, soccer, hockey
- Combat sports — Martial arts, wrestling, boxing
- Recreational activities — Skateboarding, biking, gymnastics
Even low-impact activities can pose risks when orthodontic appliances are involved, making protection an essential part of treatment.
Custom-Fit vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Not all mouthguards offer the same level of comfort or protection. Patients often choose between store-bought options and professionally made orthodontic mouthguards.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are widely available and affordable, but they tend to be bulky and may not fit securely over braces. These guards can shift during activity and may restrict breathing or speech.
Custom-fit orthodontic mouthguards are designed using digital scans or impressions of your mouth. They provide a precise fit that adapts to orthodontic appliances and stays in place during movement. This option offers superior comfort, protection, and durability.
Can You Wear a Mouthguard With Invisalign?
Yes, patients using Invisalign or other clear aligners should still wear mouth protection during sports. In most cases, aligners are removed and replaced with a sports mouthguard during physical activity.
Some patients may wear a mouthguard over their aligners during low-contact activities, but this depends on individual treatment plans. Your orthodontist can help determine the safest option based on your lifestyle.
How Often Should an Orthodontic Mouthguard Be Replaced?
As teeth move and orthodontic appliances change, mouthguards may need to be updated. Growing teens and patients in active treatment often require adjustments or replacements to maintain proper fit.
You may need a new mouthguard if:
- The fit feels loose or uncomfortable
- There is visible wear or cracking
- Your braces or aligners have changed significantly
- The guard has been lost or damaged
How to Care for Your Orthodontic Mouthguard
Proper care helps extend the life of your mouthguard and prevents bacteria buildup.
- Rinse with cool water after each use
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush
- Store in a ventilated case
- Avoid heat or direct sunlight
If your mouthguard develops an odor or shows signs of damage, it should be replaced.
Benefits of Orthodontic Mouthguards
Wearing an orthodontic mouthguard provides multiple advantages during treatment.
- Appliance protection — Reduces broken brackets and wires
- Injury prevention — Shields lips, cheeks, and gums
- Treatment efficiency — Prevents delays caused by damage
- Confidence — Allows active participation in sports
Orthodontic Mouthguards in Miramar, FL
Orthodontic mouthguards are a simple but powerful tool for protecting your smile during treatment. Patients in Miramar, FL who stay active can benefit from customized protection that fits their orthodontic appliances and supports long-term treatment success.
Whether you are a competitive athlete or enjoy recreational activities, wearing a properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard helps prevent injuries, avoid emergency visits, and keep your smile on track.
If you are currently in orthodontic treatment or preparing to begin, speak with your orthodontist about mouthguard options that fit your needs and lifestyle.