MOUTHGUARDS
Protecting your smile while playing sports is essential when you have braces. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury. If you participate in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, or wrestling, it is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists that you wear a mouthguard.
TYPES OF MOUTHGUARDS
Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. There are three basic types of mouthguards: the pre-made mouthguard, the “boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard from your orthodontist. When you choose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing properly.
Pre-made mouthguards and boil-and-bite mouthguards can be purchased at most sporting goods stores, while custom-made mouthguards are specially designed by your orthodontist to provide optimal protection against mouth injuries. If you wear braces or a retainer, it is imperative for you to wear a mouthguard during contact sports. Your doctor can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR MOUTHGUARD
Similar to a retainer, braces, or any other special dental appliance, it is important to take care of your mouthguard by storing it properly and keeping it clean, as well as knowing when to replace your old mouthguard with a new one. Here are a few simple ways to keep your mouthguard clean and working correctly:
- Gently scrub your mouthguard after each use with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Store your mouthguard in a protective case.
- Do not leave your mouthguard in the sun or in hot water, because it may melt or become deformed.
- Replace your mouthguard at the beginning of every new sports season. You should also replace your mouthguard if you notice it has become worn and no longer fits properly.
- Do not wear a retainer with your mouthguard. If you wear braces, Drs. Rojas & Friends will help design a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your braces.
- Do not chew on or cut pieces off of your mouthguard. Mouthguards come in different shapes and sizes; ask your dentist which is best for you.
- Bring your mouthguard to each checkup, so we can check to make sure it’s still in good shape!
Sports-related injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries incurred by athletes. Our goal is to help minimize your chances of a sports-related injury to your smile. Be sure to ask your Drs. Rojas & Friends about mouthguards at your next appointment — GO TEAM!
WHAT SETS
US APART
“Dr. Rojas communicated with my son's dentist directly and facilitated the transfer of information between the offices. That was very helpful to me, since I don't know most of the technical terms for specialty x-rays and other procedures. I look forward to working with Dr. Rojas for many years to come, with my 9-year old son and his younger siblings. I recommend them to families seeking a knowledgeable, skilled, patient, and kind orthodontists. ” Erica H.
“As an adult patient with periodontal issues, finding an orthodontist who is keyed into my special needs was the priority. I am well taken care of in the more-than-capable hands of Dr. Rojas, each appointment is pleasant and feels like a visit with an old friend. Most importantly, my smile transformation is coming along nicely. I am eager to face the world braces-free!” Neil N.
“At my age it was difficult to decide whether to go through orthodontic treatment; I wondered if it would be worth it. Well, it was! Even though I had to wear the Invisalign trays for a couple of months longer than projected, I'm very pleased with the final results. From the initial consultation through the entire orthodontic process, I was made to feel welcome and treated with professionalism. Thank you Dr. Jenniffer Rojas for giving me my healthy smile back. ” Esther S.
“I can't stop grinning. My pearly whites have never looked better and it's all thanks to Dr. Rojas! Sure, it was a downer that I didn't get braces as a kid but I got to hold off for the best of the best! Totally worth the wait!” Billy G.
“My 9-year old son and I have had an excellent experience with Dr. Rojas. They makes sure the visits are comfortable by being kind and setting a positive tone. Also, they always makes time to explain to me and to my son what they will be doing that day, and to answer all our questions. ” Erica H.
“Dr. Rojas communicated with my son's dentist directly and facilitated the transfer of information between the offices. That was very helpful to me, since I don't know most of the technical terms for specialty x-rays and other procedures. I look forward to working with Dr. Rojas for many years to come, with my 9-year old son and his younger siblings. I recommend them to families seeking a knowledgeable, skilled, patient, and kind orthodontists. ” Erica H.
“As an adult patient with periodontal issues, finding an orthodontist who is keyed into my special needs was the priority. I am well taken care of in the more-than-capable hands of Dr. Rojas, each appointment is pleasant and feels like a visit with an old friend. Most importantly, my smile transformation is coming along nicely. I am eager to face the world braces-free!” Neil N.