Custom Protection for Active Orthodontic Patients
Orthodontic Mouthguards at Beckstead Dental Group
Protecting your smile is just as important as perfecting it. At our dental office in Palo Alto, we understand that patients wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances need specialized protection for their teeth, especially during physical activities. Our custom orthodontic mouthguards provide the superior protection and comfort you need to stay active while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Why Orthodontic Mouthguards Are Essential
Traditional sports mouthguards are designed for natural teeth, but when you have braces, wires, or other orthodontic appliances, you need a different level of protection. Orthodontic mouthguards are specifically designed to accommodate brackets and wires while protecting both your teeth and your orthodontic investment. Without proper protection, a blow to the face during sports or other activities can damage your braces, injure your soft tissues, and set back your treatment progress by months.
Athletes with braces face unique challenges. The metal brackets and wires can cut into lips, cheeks, and gums during impact, causing painful injuries that regular mouthguards might not prevent. Our orthodontic mouthguards feature special designs that cushion your orthodontic appliances and create a protective barrier between your braces and soft tissues.
Custom Protection for Active Patients
At our dental office in Palo Alto, we create custom-fitted orthodontic mouthguards tailored to your specific needs. Unlike generic, one-size-fits-all options available at sporting goods stores, our custom mouthguards are crafted from impressions of your teeth. This ensures a precise fit that accommodates your brackets and wires while providing maximum protection and comfort.
The custom fitting process is straightforward and comfortable. We take detailed impressions of your teeth and orthodontic appliances, then fabricate a mouthguard that fits snugly over your braces. The result is a protective device that stays securely in place during activity, allows for easy breathing and communication, and can be adjusted as your orthodontic treatment progresses.
Benefits of Professional Orthodontic Mouthguards
Our orthodontic mouthguards offer numerous advantages over store-bought alternatives. The custom fit means better protection because the mouthguard won’t shift or fall out during intense activity. The specialized materials we use provide excellent shock absorption, distributing impact forces across your entire dental arch rather than concentrating pressure on individual teeth or brackets.
Comfort is another significant benefit. Generic mouthguards often feel bulky and can trigger gagging reflexes or make breathing difficult. Our custom orthodontic mouthguards are designed to fit comfortably and allow for natural breathing patterns, so you can focus on your performance rather than your mouthguard.
Additionally, custom orthodontic mouthguards are more durable than generic options. They resist wear and tear better, providing long-lasting protection throughout your treatment. As your teeth shift during orthodontic treatment, we can adjust or remake your mouthguard to ensure it continues to fit properly and provide optimal protection.
Who Should Wear Orthodontic Mouthguards?
We recommend orthodontic mouthguards for any patient with braces or other orthodontic appliances who participates in sports or physical activities. This includes contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and martial arts, as well as activities with fall risks such as skateboarding, gymnastics, and mountain biking.
Even non-contact sports can pose risks. Baseball and softball players can experience impact from balls or accidental collisions. Cyclists and skaters face fall risks that could damage orthodontic appliances. Any activity where there’s a possibility of facial impact warrants the protection of orthodontic mouthguards.
Protecting Your Investment
Orthodontic treatment represents a significant investment in time, effort, and money. Damage to your braces from sports injuries can extend your treatment time and increase costs. Our orthodontic mouthguards help protect this investment by preventing damage to brackets, wires, and bands while also protecting your teeth from chips, cracks, and other injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do orthodontic mouthguards cost?
Custom orthodontic mouthguards typically cost more than store-bought options, but they provide superior protection and comfort. We offer competitive pricing and can discuss costs during your consultation.
How often do I need to replace my orthodontic mouthguard?
As your teeth shift during treatment, your mouthguard may need adjustment or replacement. We’ll evaluate the fit at your regular orthodontic appointments and recommend replacements as needed.
Can I wear a regular mouthguard with braces?
Regular mouthguards aren’t designed for braces and may not provide adequate protection. Orthodontic mouthguards are specifically engineered to accommodate brackets and wires safely.
How do I clean my orthodontic mouthguard?
Rinse your mouthguard with cool water after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush. Store it in a ventilated case and bring it to your dental appointments for professional cleaning.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let braces keep you off the field or away from the activities you love. Our team is ready to provide you with a custom orthodontic mouthguard that offers the protection and comfort you need. Contact our dental office in Palo Alto today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help keep your smile safe during orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or enjoy recreational activities, we’ll ensure you have the right protection for your lifestyle.