Dsalita Why You Shouldn’t Wear a Stock Mouthguard with Braces
Wearing a mouthguard is essential for protecting your teeth and mouth during sports activities. However, if you have braces, you need to be careful about the type of mouthguard you wear. Stock mouthguards, which are readily available at sports stores, are not suitable for people with braces. Here are some reasons why:
1. Poor Fit
Stock mouthguards are designed to fit the average person’s mouth. If you have braces, your mouth is not average. The brackets and wires can cause the mouthguard to fit poorly, leaving your teeth and gums vulnerable to injury.
Furthermore, as your teeth move during orthodontic treatment, the mouthguard will become even more ill-fitting. This can cause discomfort and make it difficult to breathe or speak properly during sports activities.
2. Lack of Protection
Stock mouthguards do not provide adequate protection for people with braces. The brackets and wires can poke through the mouthguard, causing cuts and bruises to the lips, gums, and cheeks. In some cases, the mouthguard can even dislodge the brackets or wires, causing damage to your orthodontic treatment.
Additionally, stock mouthguards do not offer enough cushioning to protect your teeth from impact. If you get hit in the mouth while wearing a stock mouthguard with braces, you are at risk of serious dental injuries, such as broken teeth or jaw fractures.
3. Hygiene Concerns
Wearing a mouthguard with braces requires extra attention to hygiene. Food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped between the mouthguard and your braces, leading to bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Stock mouthguards are difficult to clean and can harbor bacteria if not properly sanitized. This can lead to infections and other health problems. Custom-fit mouthguards, on the other hand, are easier to clean and can be made with antimicrobial materials to prevent the growth of bacteria.
4. Comfort Issues
Wearing a mouthguard can be uncomfortable, especially if you have braces. Stock mouthguards can cause additional discomfort due to their poor fit and lack of adjustability.
Custom-fit mouthguards are designed to fit your mouth precisely, providing maximum comfort and protection. They can also be adjusted as your orthodontic treatment progresses, ensuring a perfect fit throughout your entire treatment.
5. Cost Considerations
While stock mouthguards are cheaper than custom-fit mouthguards, they can end up costing you more in the long run. If you get injured while wearing a stock mouthguard with braces, you may need to pay for costly dental treatments to repair the damage.
Custom-fit mouthguards are more expensive upfront, but they can save you money in the long run by preventing dental injuries and protecting your orthodontic treatment.
Conclusion
Wearing a mouthguard is essential for protecting your teeth and mouth during sports activities. However, if you have braces, it is important to choose the right type of mouthguard. Stock mouthguards are not suitable for people with braces due to their poor fit, lack of protection, hygiene concerns, comfort issues, and cost considerations. Custom-fit mouthguards are the best option for people with braces, providing maximum comfort and protection for your teeth and orthodontic treatment.
