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If you or your child play contact sports, wearing a mouth guard is essential. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your teeth and prevent injuries on the field or court. But if you’re currently in braces, not just any mouth guard will do.

What Is a Standard Mouth Guard?

A traditional mouth guard—often called a “boil-and-bite” guard—is designed to mold to your teeth for a snug fit. You typically soften it in hot water and then bite down to shape it around your teeth.

While this works well for people without braces, it can cause problems for those in orthodontic treatment. The molding process can put pressure on your brackets and wires, potentially loosening or damaging them.

Why Braces Require a Different Solution

When you’re wearing braces, your teeth are constantly shifting as part of your treatment. A tightly molded mouth guard won’t adapt to those changes and may not fit properly for long. More importantly, attempting to mold a standard guard around brackets can interfere with your orthodontic appliances.

What Is an Orthodontic Mouth Guard?

An orthodontic mouth guard is specifically designed for patients with braces. Instead of being molded tightly to your teeth, it’s made to fit comfortably over brackets and wires while still offering protection.

These guards are flexible, easy to wear, and allow room for tooth movement throughout your treatment—making them a much safer option.

Why Wearing a Mouth Guard Matters

Whether you have braces or not, a mouth guard plays a critical role in protecting your smile. Without one, a hit to the mouth during sports could result in:

• Broken or damaged brackets
• Chipped or fractured teeth
• Cuts and injuries inside the mouth caused by braces

An orthodontic mouth guard acts as a cushion, absorbing impact and reducing the risk of serious injury.

Protect Your Smile

Orthodontic treatment is a commitment of both time and effort. Wearing the right mouth guard ensures that your progress stays on track and your smile stays protected.

If you’re going through treatment, don’t overlook this simple step—protect your smile every time you play.

What Should I Expect During My Initial Exam?

During your first consultation, we’ll start by taking photos and, if necessary, an X-ray. Dr. Hughes will then conduct a thorough examination. Our Treatment Coordinator will explain the recommended treatment plan and discuss the financial aspects with you. We’ll make sure to answer all your questions and prepare you for the start of your treatment.

Do Braces Hurt?

Braces typically don’t cause pain during treatment. However, you may feel some discomfort after they are initially placed. This soreness usually lasts a few days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth adjust to the new braces.

Why Do I Need to Brush My Teeth More with Braces?

It’s crucial to brush your teeth four times a day and floss daily when you have braces. This helps prevent plaque buildup and bacteria from becoming trapped in your gums. Neglecting this can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and stained teeth.

Can I Floss with Braces?

Yes, you can—and should—floss daily! Flossing with braces is a bit different; you’ll need to maneuver the floss behind the wire between each tooth to effectively reach the gums. Tools like floss threaders and super floss can make this process easier.

What Should I Do if I Break a Bracket?

If a bracket or band becomes loose or falls off the wire, it’s not an emergency. Simply call our office as soon as you notice, and we’ll schedule an appointment to fix it. If the loose bracket is causing discomfort, you can apply orthodontic wax to relieve the irritation.

Why Do I Have to Change My Elastics Throughout the Day?

Orthodontic elastics function like regular elastics; repeated stretching will cause them to loosen. Activities like talking and chewing can stretch the elastics, making them less effective. By changing your elastics throughout the day, you ensure they remain tight, helping your treatment progress as planned.

Why Do I Have to Wear a Retainer After My Braces are Off?

After your treatment is complete, your teeth may try to return to their original positions. Wearing a retainer full-time for the first year and then at night indefinitely will help keep your teeth in place.

Am I Too Old for Braces?

Absolutely not! There’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment. We encourage everyone aged seven and older to schedule an orthodontic consultation to explore the best treatment options for them.

What Foods Should I Avoid While Wearing Braces?

Don’t worry—you’ll be able to enjoy popcorn and gum again soon! In the meantime, it’s essential to avoid foods that could damage your braces, such as crunchy, sticky, or hard items. Foods that require biting into, like corn on the cob, apples, and carrots, should also be avoided unless cut into smaller pieces.