My Orthodontist | Mouthguards Near Me in New Jersey

When it comes to safeguarding your smile, mouthguards are a vital tool for both athletes and non-athletes alike. Especially for active kids with braces, protecting their teeth during sports activities is crucial to prevent potential injuries and complications. 

As a trusted orthodontic practice in West Orange, New Jersey, we understand the significance of mouthguards in preserving dental health. Let’s delve into why mouthguards are essential, their benefits for athletic kids with braces, and where to find mouthguards near you.

Why Mouthguards Matter

Mouthguards serve as a protective barrier for the teeth, gums, and jaw during physical activities or sports. They help absorb and distribute the impact of blows to the face, reducing the risk of injuries such as broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and soft tissue damage. 

Whether your child participates in contact sports like football and hockey or non-contact sports like basketball and soccer, wearing a mouthguard can significantly lower their chances of sustaining oral injuries.

Benefits for Athletic Kids with Braces

For kids undergoing orthodontic treatment, wearing braces adds an extra layer of vulnerability to their dental health during sports activities. Mouthguards provide essential protection for children with braces by:

1. Preventing Bracket Damage: Mouthguards act as a cushion between the braces and the mouth’s soft tissues, reducing the risk of brackets breaking or causing cuts and abrasions.
2. Protecting Against Impact: In the event of a fall or collision, mouthguards help absorb the impact and minimize the risk of trauma to the teeth and braces.
3. Maintaining Treatment Progress: Avoiding dental injuries ensures that orthodontic treatment progresses smoothly without interruptions or setbacks, saving time and money in the long run.

Types of Mouthguards

When it comes to choosing a mouthguard for your child, there are several options available, including:

1. Custom-Fit Mouthguards: These are made by your orthodontist to fit your child’s teeth and braces perfectly, providing the highest level of protection and comfort.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These are pre-formed mouthguards that can be softened in hot water and molded to fit your child’s teeth and braces.
3. Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-made and come in standard sizes, providing the least protection and comfort but are often more affordable.

Custom-made mouthguards offer superior protection and comfort compared to their off-the-shelf counterparts. Crafted by professionals like our West Orange orthodontic team, custom mouthguards are individually tailored to fit your child’s unique dental anatomy and braces, ensuring optimal coverage and stability. 

This customized fit enhances protection against dental injuries and wearability, allowing for natural speech and breathing during sports activities. With custom-made mouthguards, you can trust that your child’s smile is safeguarded with the highest care and precision.

Where Can I Find Mouthguards Near Me?

As your trusted New Jersey orthodontist, we offer custom-fit mouthguards tailored to your child’s needs and orthodontic treatment. Our team of experienced professionals in West Orange is dedicated to providing personalized care and ensuring the safety and well-being of your child’s smile, both on and off the field.

Tips for Mouthguard Care and Maintenance

To ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your child’s mouthguard, it’s essential to:

• Clean the mouthguard regularly: Rinse it with cold water after each use and brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Store it properly: Keep the mouthguard in a clean, ventilated case when not in use to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Inspect it regularly: Check for signs of wear and tear, such as tears or holes, and replace it if necessary.
• Avoid chewing on the mouthguard: Encourage your child not to chew on or bite down hard on it, as this can damage its structure.

Visit Your New Jersey Orthodontist For Protective Mouthguards

Mouthguards are a vital piece of protective equipment for athletic kids, especially those with braces. As your New Jersey orthodontist, we are committed to helping your child maintain a healthy and confident smile both on and off the field. 

Invest in your child’s dental health today by ensuring they wear a properly fitted mouthguard during sports activities. Visit us in West Orange, New Jersey, to learn more about our custom-fit mouthguards and how we can protect your child’s smile for years to come.