Mouthguard for braces

How to choose, fit, and wear them safely

If you have braces and enjoy playing contact sport, a well-fitted mouthguard is essential to protect your teeth, braces, and soft tissues from injury. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mouthguards for braces, from choosing the right type to proper fitting and care. But remember, mouthguards for braces are specialised, so consulting your orthodontist is the best way to ensure a perfect fit.

Why a mouthguard is essential for braces in contact sports

A mouthguard is a soft yet durable device to shield or cushion your teeth from impact during physical activity. For people with braces, a mouthguard does more than just protect your teeth – it also safeguards the brackets and wires while preventing your lips and cheeks from being injured by sharp edges should there be an accidental knock to your mouth.

Using a mouthguard is simple. Before engaging in contact sport, you simply place the mouthguard over your teeth and braces where it will act as a protective cushion. This will absorb and disperse the force of an unexpected impact to reduce the harm to your teeth, braces and cheeks.

What happens if you don’t use a mouthguard for braces when playing contact sports?

You may wonder, “Can I play rugby with braces?” or “Can I do boxing with braces?” The answer is yes — but only if you use a proper mouthguard that fits over your braces and protects them.

Without a mouthguard, playing contact sports like football, basketball, rugby, water polo or boxing can leave you more vulnerable to a range of injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, dislodged brackets or wires, cuts and lacerations to lips, cheeks, and tongue, or jaw injuries from impact.

Wearing a mouthguard reduces these risks, giving you the confidence to enjoy your sport while keeping your orthodontic work intact!

Types of mouthguards for braces

Do you need a special mouthguard for braces?

Yes. Standard mouthguards aren’t designed to fit over braces and may not provide adequate protection. Talk to your orthodontist to find the best mouthguard for your braces.

What types of mouthguards are there?

There are three types of mouthguards in the market — each with unique features that come with varying advantages and disadvantages.

1. Stock Mouthguards

• Pre-formed and ready to wear
• Often inexpensive but may not fit well over braces

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

• Softened in hot water and then moulded to your teeth
• A more affordable and customisable option that can be remoulded as the teeth move in treatment

3. Custom-Made Mouthguards

• Created by a dentist or orthodontist for a precise fit
• May offer best initial fit but comes at a higher cost and can’t easily be remoulded as teeth shift in treatment

What type of mouthguard is best for braces?

A mouthguard that is moulded to fit your mouth and is comfortable to wear is the best option for braces. A good mouthguard needs to balance bulkiness, shock absorbance, comfort and fit. Discuss your mouthguard options with your orthodontist.

Why do most mouthguards only cover the top teeth?

Mouthguards typically only cover the top teeth because these are the teeth most prone to injury. Covering only the top teeth also makes it easier to breath and to speak. The mouthguard on the top teeth cushions the contact between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing impact forces and reducing the risk of jaw injury. There are some situations where mouthguards can be designed to cover upper and lower teeth in sports with a high risk of facial injury like boxing or MMA.

Sport Insurance Considerations

Some sports insurance policies require players to wear properly fitted mouthguards. Choosing a professionally moulded, orthodontic-approved mouthguard could be the difference between having your claim accepted or denied if you suffer a dental injury during play.

Why you should consult an orthodontist when deciding on your mouthguard choice

When choosing a mouthguard for braces, professional advice is key. Off-the-shelf options may seem convenient but often don’t fit properly increasing the risk of damage to your braces and teeth. Here’s why expert guidance matters:

• Fit matters: A tight mouthguard will be uncomfortable to wear and may even loosen brackets, while a loose one won’t stay in place or offer enough protection.
• Material quality: Store-bought guards may degrade, crack, or irritate gums, while orthodontist-approved ones use durable, medical-grade materials.
• Customised for your treatment: Orthodontists ensure a proper fit that adapts as your teeth move.
• Expert advice: Orthodontists understand the implications of your sport on your braces treatment. Having their support and input can give you the peace of mind you need to focus on being at the top of your game.
• DIY risks: Fitting your own mouthguard can compromise the protection of your teeth and braces due to improper coverage and a poor fit.

Your pearly whites (and your orthodontic investment) deserve better than guesswork. A professionally fitted mouthguard is the safest way to protect your teeth, braces, and mouth while playing sports.

Caring for your mouthguard

Cleaning

After every use, wash with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. A gentle scrub with your fingers or a soft toothbrush will do the trick. If particles get stuck in the grooves around your braces impressions, use a cotton swab to carefully clean them.

Storing

Use a ventilated case to allow airflow — this prevents moisture buildup and bacteria growth. Avoid exposing it to heat such as leaving it in a hot car, under direct sunlight, or near a heater because heat can cause it to warp, affecting the fit.

Replacing

Even the best mouthguards don’t last forever. If you notice wear or cracking or if it feels too loose or too tight, your teeth may have shifted — indicating that it’s time for a change. Having ongoing braces adjustments throughout treatment can affect how your mouthguard fits. Your orthodontist will be able to advise when a replacement is needed.

Find an orthodontist near you

In summary — a properly fitted mouthguard is essential for protecting your teeth, gums, and braces while playing sports. While over-the-counter options may seem convenient, they often fall short in providing optimal fit, comfort and protection. On the other hand, a custom-made mouthguard from your orthodontist is tailored specifically to your unique mouth size, ensuring superior protection and comfort. Protecting your smile shouldn’t be a compromise — your orthodontist can recommend the perfect mouthguard for your needs.

Ready to invest in a custom-made mouthguard for your braces? Use our finder tool to locate a trusted orthodontic professional in your area and explore your options.

About Orthodontics Australia

Orthodontics Australia (OA) is the official public advice channel of the Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO), providing expert guidance on orthodontic treatment options and helping you connect with qualified specialist orthodontists across Australia.

As the leading authority in orthodontic care, OA ensures patients receive trusted, evidence-based information to make informed decisions about their oral health.