One second you’re racing toward the goal, the next you’re catching a surprise elbow to the jaw. That’s the moment a mouthguard earns its place in your gear bag. These small but mighty protectors can save teeth, lips, and braces from the kind of hits that turn a fun game into an emergency visit. Dr. Younis and the team at Younis Orthodontics in Martinsburg help local families protect their smiles by encouraging the use of well-fitting mouthguards for active lives. Next, let’s break down why this simple piece of gear deserves a permanent spot in every sports bag.
The Power of Small Protection
Every sports season in Martinsburg brings its share of hard-fought wins, near misses, and the occasional flying ball that no one saw coming. A mouthguard may not be the flashiest piece of equipment on the field, but it’s the one that steps up when the unexpected happens.
It cushions impact, shields braces, and keeps those post-game smiles camera-ready at the Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival or around the neighborhood. Dr. Younis often advises athletes across Shepherdstown and Spring Mills that a well-made mouthguard can make the difference between finishing the season or sitting it out.
Coming up, let’s check out the different kinds available and find out which one fits your routine best.
Finding the Right Fit
Choosing a mouthguard is a little like picking your go-to pair of sneakers: you want something that feels good, performs well, and fits your style of play. The options range from quick and simple to fully customized protection made just for you:
- Stock mouthguards: Found at places like Dick’s Sporting Goods or Walmart, popular brands such as Shock Doctor and SISU make ready-to-wear options designed for braces. They’re convenient but can feel bulky and may not offer the best fit once the game gets intense.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These are easy to shape at home by softening them in hot water and molding them to your bite. They offer a middle ground for comfort and affordability and are popular with teens who want something fast before practice.
- Custom mouthguards: These are made by dental professionals using digital scans for a precise fit that adapts to your teeth and braces. They’re ideal for athletes who want lasting protection without distraction.
Families across Martinsburg, Spring Mills, and Hedgesville often choose custom options made through their dentist because they fit naturally and hold up through every season. Next, let’s look at why wearing a mouthguard becomes even more important once orthodontic treatment begins.
Why Mouthguards Matter During Orthodontic Treatment
Once braces or aligners enter the picture, the stakes for protection get higher. A stray ball or elbow can bend wires, loosen brackets, or even cut the inside of your mouth. That’s why mouthguards designed for orthodontic patients are built with extra room and flexibility to cushion against impact while still fitting comfortably around braces.
For Invisalign® wearers, it’s smart to pop trays out before a game and switch to a mouthguard designed for active play. The Younis Orthodontics crew often helps patients find options that balance protection with comfort, so they can focus on the game instead of worrying about repairs.
Coming up, let’s see how a good mouthguard helps keep treatment progress on track and confidence levels high.
Keeping Treatment on Track
Every time you step onto the field or court, a mouthguard quietly takes on the hits your braces or aligners shouldn’t have to. It cushions contact, helps avoid damage, and keeps treatment running smoothly between appointments. Here’s how it makes a difference for active patients:
- Protects brackets and wires: Keeps orthodontic parts in place, reducing the chance of emergency visits after a collision.
- Shields soft tissue: Prevents lips and cheeks from getting scraped by brackets during impact.
- Preserves aligners: Swapping trays for a mouthguard during practice keeps them from cracking or bending.
- Saves time and stress: Fewer repairs mean more focus on the sport, not the schedule.
Families throughout Martinsburg, Inwood, and Shepherdstown appreciate how something this small can make treatment feel easier and more reliable. Next, let’s go over a few simple ways to keep your mouthguard in great shape all season long.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
Like any piece of sports gear, a mouthguard works best when it’s kept clean and ready for action. With just a few simple habits, you can keep it fresh, durable, and safe to use every time you hit the field:
- Rinse before and after every use: Use cool or lukewarm water to wash away debris and bacteria.
- Brush gently: Clean it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap a few times a week.
- Store it right: Keep it in a ventilated case so it can dry between games and practices.
- Avoid heat: Hot water or leaving it in a car can cause the material to warp.
- Replace when needed: If it shows cracks, wear, or no longer fits comfortably, it’s time for a new one.
Patients can mention their mouthguards during orthodontic visits at Younis Orthodontics if they have questions about fit or comfort while wearing braces. Coming up, let’s look at how simple it is to get your own custom mouthguard made right here in Martinsburg.
Getting Your Custom Mouthguard
A custom mouthguard from your dentist is made to play as hard as you do. Using a quick digital scan or impression, they design a fit that feels natural and stays put through every pass, pitch, and play.
Kids sprinting across Spring Mills soccer fields, teens hustling on Hedgesville basketball courts, and adults swinging bats in weekend leagues all count on that extra layer of protection. It’s gear that moves with you, is comfortable, dependable, and built to last. Families across Martinsburg love knowing their smiles are safe, no matter what the scoreboard says.
Game Faces Stay Safe
Sports can bring plenty of surprises, but with a custom mouthguard from Younis Orthodontics, every play, practice, and game comes with built-in protection that feels effortless. Dr. Younis helps kids, teens, and adults keep their focus on fun instead of repairs. Schedule your free consultation in Martinsburg today to get fitted for a mouthguard that’s ready for action!