Athletic Mouth Guards Hartford County, CT

It is important to protect your teeth when playing sports if you have braces or other orthodontic appliances. A custom orthodontic mouth guard can help protect against injuries to the teeth, tongue, and other soft tissues of your mouth. Some injuries that a custom orthodontic mouth gaud can help protect against while playing contact sports like soccer, hockey, and football include:

• Chipped teeth
• Broken teeth
• Missing teeth that were knocked out

Because the ultimate goal is to move your teeth into optimal positions, orthodontic mouth guards typically last about a year due to your teeth changing positions. If you are still playing contact sports when your teeth shift, our team will recommend being re-fitted for a new mouth guard. Your dentists will assess the fit and condition of your mouth guard during your regular appointments.

Yes, mouth guards for braces will fit better than boil and bite guards. We do not recommend using boil and bite mouth guards with orthodontics, as they could damage your dental appliances. Custom mouth guards are specifically designed to fit the unique contours of your teeth and braces, providing superior protection and comfort. Additionally, custom mouth guards are made from higher quality materials, which offer better durability and effectiveness in preventing dental injuries.

Mouth guards typically need to be replaced every season or every six months, especially for children and adolescents whose mouths are still growing and changing shape. However, adults without significant dental changes might extend this period to a year or more, depending on the wear and tear observed. Signs that indicate the need for replacement include noticeable deformities, discomfort, or if the mouth guard becomes loose or causes irritation. Regular inspection for wear and tear and consultation with a dental professional can ensure the mouth guard remains effective in providing protection.

A sports mouthguard is designed primarily to cover and protect the upper teeth, which are more vulnerable to trauma during physical activities. It doesn't typically cover all teeth because the upper set acts as a shield for both sets in most impact scenarios. The guard cushions against blows that could cause broken teeth, injuries to the lips and tongue, and even more serious issues like jaw fractures or concussions. However, for certain sports or individuals with specific dental concerns, such as braces on the lower teeth, a dentist or orthodontist might recommend a mouthguard that covers both the upper and lower teeth for additional protection.

Cleaning your athletic mouth guard after every use is essential to maintain its hygiene and effectiveness. Bacteria, fungi, and yeast can thrive on an unclean mouthguard, leading to unpleasant odors, potential mouth infections, and the degradation of the material. Rinse it with water immediately after use, and give it a thorough cleaning with a toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste or soap and water. Additionally, soaking it in an antimicrobial solution or mouthwash periodically can provide an extra level of cleanliness. Always let it dry completely before storing it in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth. Regular cleaning not only extends the life of your mouthguard but also ensures it remains safe and comfortable to use.