Dr. Heidi Harman of H2O Orthodontics recommends that her patients near Avondale, MO who play sports wear a mouthguard so that their braces stay protected during their activity. Dr. Harman believes it is important for all her patients to know exactly what mouthguards do and why they are important. Active patients can focus then on their game and also stay on schedule with their treatment. The team at H2O Orthodontics treats all their patients with the care and consistency that their lifestyle demands while ensuring the best possible treatment outcomes.

What do mouthguards do?

Mouthguards help prevent players from chipping or losing teeth when sports or physical activities get rough. Many sports teams and leagues (football, lacrosse, and ice hockey) require mouthguards because they help keep the players teeth and mouth safe during a game or practice. When a patient has braces, mouthguards are even more important so the braces stay intact and do not break.

What are the different type of mouthguards available for those with braces?

There are three main kinds of mouthguards which all can be used by patients with braces near Avondale, MO. These three kinds of mouthguards are:

1. Stock Mouthguards: Stock mouthguards are inexpensive, come ready to wear, and can be bought at most sporting goods stores near Avondale, MO. Stock mouthguards offer the least amount of protection for patient’s teeth and braces. They are one, uniform fit and therefore cannot be adjusted easily. Some patients find them bulky and that they make talking and breathing difficult.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Boil-and-bite mouthguards mold to the player’s teeth and gums. To get a custom fit, a patient would boil the mouthguard in hot water to soften the thermoplastic material. The patient then bites down on the warm, softened mouthguard to mold it perfectly to fit their teeth and braces. Boil-and-bite mouthguards can be found at most sporting goods stores near Avondale, MO and, although they are a little more expensive than stock mouthguards, they are not overly expensive.

3. Orthodontic Mouthguards: Orthodontic mouthguards are available only from orthodontists like Dr. Harman. These are the most expensive type of  mouthguards and are customized to fit and protect the teeth and braces. Orthodontic mouthguards offer the most comfort and protection of any of these types of mouthguards.

No matter which mouthguard you choose, Dr. Heidi Harman and H2O Orthodontics want to make sure that your teeth and braces are fully protected during games and practices. It is not only important to practice and try your best on the field or court, but to also make sure your braces are protected from any possible injuries. For more information on mouthguards or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Harman, please call H2O Orthodontics near Avondale, MO today at (913) 782-7223.