Mouthguards 101: Protecting Braces and Smiles This Fall Sports Season

As fall sports season kicks off, student athletes are hitting the field, court, and mat. While helmets and pads get all the attention, don’t forget one of the most important pieces of equipment—a mouthguard. Especially for kids and teens with braces, protecting their smile during sports is essential.

Why Mouthguards Matter

Every year, thousands of dental injuries occur during sports—many of them completely preventable. A hit to the face without a mouthguard can lead to chipped teeth, broken brackets, cut lips, and even long-term oral trauma. With braces, the stakes are even higher.

A mouthguard cushions the impact, protecting not just the teeth, but the braces and soft tissues inside the mouth.

Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards are recommended for a wide range of sports, not just high-contact ones. The American Dental Association advises athletes in the following sports to wear a mouthguard:

• Football

• Soccer

• Basketball

• Field & Ice hockey

• Lacrosse

• Wrestling

• Skateboarding, biking, and more

Even non-contact sports can pose risks when there’s the chance of a fall or collision.

What Kind of Mouthguard Is Best for Braces?

For orthodontic patients, not just any mouthguard will do. It's important to choose one that:

• Fits over braces without restricting movement

• Allows for ongoing tooth movement during treatment

• Offers full coverage and shock absorption

• Is easy to clean and wear consistently

At All Star Orthodontics, we recommend Shock Doctor® Braces Mouthguards, which are specifically designed to protect brackets, wires, and teeth—while still being comfortable enough to wear during every practice and game.

Get Yours at Your Next Visit

We offer Shock Doctor® Braces Mouthguards right here in our office, so you can pick one up with ease—no special fitting or extra appointment needed. They're pre-packaged and ready to go, making it simple to protect your athlete’s smile all season long.

Play it Safe This Season

From football tackles to unexpected soccer collisions, accidents happen fast. Help your child stay in the game—and out of the emergency chair—with the right protection.

Ask us about mouthguards at your next appointment, or give us a call to learn more!