Mouthguards for Braces

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Training in combat sports like Muay Thai or boxing requires the right gear to stay protected, and this becomes even more critical if you have braces. A mouthguard not only protects your teeth, but it also shields your braces from damage during strikes. Choosing the right mouthguard ensures both your orthodontic work and your safety remain intact. Here’s a look at why you need a specialized mouthguard for braces and the top brands offering this vital protection.

Why You Need a Special Mouthguard for Braces

  1. Extra Protection:
    Braces are an investment in your smile, and any direct impact could damage them or your teeth. Mouthguards designed for braces are larger and offer added protection by covering both the braces and teeth to cushion against hard impacts.
  2. Comfort and Fit:
    Braces change the shape of your mouth, making standard mouthguards uncomfortable or unusable. Mouthguards for braces are designed to adjust with your orthodontic treatment and provide room for the brackets and wires, ensuring a comfortable fit that doesn’t interfere with breathing or speaking.
  3. Preventing Soft Tissue Damage:
    Braces can cause additional damage to your lips and gums if not properly protected. A well-designed mouthguard keeps your braces from cutting into soft tissue during impact, reducing the risk of painful injuries.

Best Mouthguard Brands for Athletes with Braces

1. Shock Doctor Braces Mouthguard

ShockDoctor Upper and Lower Mouthguard for Braces

Many people with braces end up getting them on both the top and bottom sets of teeth. Conventional mouthguards only cover the top set of teeth, which leaves the bottom set of teeth to get cut up by the bottom set of braces on even the lightest of impacts. By having a mouthguard that protects the top and bottom teeth, you are protecting your top and bottom gums against the abrasive material of the braces.

Pros:
Shock Doctor is a well-known brand, and their braces mouthguards are designed specifically for athletes with orthodontics. Made from medical-grade silicone, the guard adjusts to changes in tooth position during treatment, ensuring a consistent fit. It also offers plenty of cushioning to protect both your teeth and braces from damage.

Cons:
While effective, some users find the mouthguard bulkier than non-braces versions, which can take time to get used to.

Where to Buy:
Available on Shock Doctor’s official site and Amazon ($25 at time of posting).


2. SISU Aero Guard for Braces (MEDIUM AND LARGE SIZES ONLY)

SISU Aero Sports Mouthguard

SISU Aero Guard only protects the top set of teeth. The small sizes do not work with braces. Only their Medium and Large sizes work with braces. But if you can’t handle the crazy bulk ShockDoctor, this might be worth looking into.

Pros:
SISU’s Aero Guard is one of the slimmest mouthguards available for braces, offering a more lightweight and breathable option without sacrificing protection. It is made with a custom-fitting mold that adapts to your braces, and the thin design makes it easier to breathe, speak, and drink during training.

Cons:
Due to its thin construction, the SISU Aero Guard may not feel as robust as thicker options. They don’t guarantee braces coverage on their Small sizes. However, it’s still highly protective and ideal for athletes who value comfort and mobility.

Where to Buy:
Available at SISU’s website and Amazon ($20 at time of posting).


3. UnderArmor Mouthguard for Braces

Underarmor Mouthguard for Braces

Pros:
UnderArmor’s Mouthguard for Braces offers excellent shock absorption and is made from advanced gel technology that allows for a custom fit around brackets and wires. It’s known for its comfort and durability, making it a great choice for those training in contact sports.

Cons:
Not necessarily as well known in the Combat circuits (compared to Venum), but well known, high-quality in sports overall.

Where to Buy:
Available on Under Armor’s official store and Amazon ($22 at time of posting).


4. Opro Power-Fit Braces Mouthguard

Opro PowerFit Mouthguard for Braces

Pros:
Opro offers a custom-fitting mouthguard made specifically for athletes with braces. The Power-Fit design provides high levels of protection, using dual-layer construction for maximum shock absorption. It is also easy to fit and adjust as your teeth shift during orthodontic treatment.

Cons:
Opro mouthguards can be pricier than boil-and-bite options, but the fit and comfort make them worth the investment, especially for those in high-impact sports.

Where to Buy:
Available on Opro’s official site and Amazon ($20 at time of posting).


5. GuardLab Apex Braces Mouthguard

GuardLab Apex Braces Mouthguard

Pros:
GuardLab specializes in creating custom 3D-printed mouthguards. The Apex guard for braces is molded for comfort and protection while allowing room for your brackets and wires. It offers a precise fit and superior durability for those training at higher intensity levels.

Cons:
As a custom-made product, GuardLab’s mouthguards can be expensive, but the custom fit offers unmatched comfort and protection.

Where to Buy:
Available through GuardLab’s website ($30 at time of posting).


Conclusion

If you have braces, protecting your teeth, orthodontic work, and soft tissues during combat sports is essential. Specialized mouthguards like those from Shock Doctor, SISU, and GuardLab are designed to offer the right fit and protection. Investing in a high-quality mouthguard can save you from costly damage to your braces and ensure you stay safe during training and competition.

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