Do You Need a Mouthguard for Wrestling With Braces?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Do You Need a Mouthguard for Wrestling With Braces? Wrestling is an intense sport that requires strength and agility. It also poses potential risks to your dental health, especially if you wear braces. To protect your teeth and braces from damage during wrestling matches, it is highly recommended to wear a mouthguard. The Importance of Mouthguards Mouthguards are essential protective gear for athletes participating in contact sports. They help absorb and distribute the impact of blows or falls, reducing the risk of dental injuries such as broken teeth, lacerations, and even jaw fractures. For individuals with braces, the need for a mouthguard becomes even more crucial as braces can exacerbate the damage caused by any impact. When wearing braces, the brackets and wires can potentially cause significant oral injuries if they come into direct contact with soft tissues or get damaged due to external force. A mouthguard acts as a cushion between your braces and the inside of your mouth, preventing any harm that may occur during wrestling. Selecting a Mouthguard Not all mouthguards are created equal when it comes to protecting braces. It is important to choose a mouthguard specifically designed for individuals with orthodontic appliances such as braces. These mouthguards have special features that accommodate the brackets and wires, ensuring a secure fit without causing discomfort or interfering with orthodontic treatment. Types of Mouthguards: Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready-to-wear mouthguards available at most sporting goods stores. While convenient, they offer minimal protection and may not fit properly over braces. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These mouthguards are softened by boiling in water, allowing them to conform to the shape of your teeth and braces when you bite into them. They offer a better fit than stock mouthguards but may still not provide adequate protection for braces. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: These mouthguards are individually designed and made by a dental professional. They provide the best fit, comfort, and protection for athletes with braces. Additional Considerations: Choose a mouthguard made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of wrestling. Ensure the mouthguard covers both the upper and lower teeth to provide comprehensive protection. Clean and maintain your mouthguard regularly to prevent bacterial growth and prolong its lifespan. Fitting and Using a Mouthguard A properly fitted mouthguard is crucial for optimal protection. Here’s how you can ensure a good fit: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if using a boil-and-bite or custom-fitted mouthguard. If using a boil-and-bite mouthguard, soften it in boiling water, let it cool slightly, and then bite down gently to mold it around your teeth and braces. Follow specific instructions provided with the mouthguard. If using a custom-fitted mouthguard, visit your dentist or orthodontist for an accurate fitting that takes your braces into consideration. Tips for using your mouthguard during wrestling: Wear your mouthguard at all times during wrestling matches or practice sessions to ensure constant protection. Rinse your mouth before inserting the mouthguard to maintain oral hygiene. Regularly check your mouthguard for signs of wear and tear. Replace it if it becomes damaged or no longer fits properly. Store your mouthguard in a clean, ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth and maintain its shape. The Bottom Line If you participate in wrestling and wear braces, wearing a mouthguard is highly recommended. It provides an additional layer of protection against dental injuries and minimizes the risk of harm to your braces. Choose a mouthguard specifically designed for individuals with braces, ensure a proper fit, and follow the recommended care instructions. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy wrestling while safeguarding your oral health.