Once you have got your orthodontic mouth-guard, it is important to take good care of it. Just like braces, the mouth-guard has to be kept clean in order to prevent bacteria and germs from growing on it when it is not in use. The best practice to ensure that the mouth-guard is kept clean is to clean it before and after using it. Brushing the mouth-guard thoroughly with a toothbrush and toothpaste will help to remove dirt, bacteria and germs on the surface of the mouth-guard. It's also good to wash the mouth-guard with mouthwash solution to eradicate and remove the germs.
With a mouth-guard, it is important to inform your coach of both the braces treatment and mouth-guard so that they are kept abreast of the situation. The coach would then be in a better place to look out for you and to remind you to wear the mouthguard.
Even if the sport that you are engaged in is not a high impact activity, it is always better to err on the side of caution and wear an orthodontic mouth-guard. Being hit in the face with a ball or falling down could damage the teeth and braces and incur significant time, money and effort to remedy the situation. Some consequences of not wearing a mouth-guard and getting hit in the face include broken brackets and wires, bleeding gums and broken teeth.
In the event that you suffer an injury it is important to call your orthodontist and schedule an appointment as soon as possible to assess the damage and injury. If the injury is serious, you should go to the emergency department in a hospital. Injuries sustained during sports not only has the potential to affect your orthodontic braces treatment but also your general health.
Braces should not be an impediment from staying active and pursuing your hobbies in sports. Only by wearing a proper orthodontic mouth-guard would you be able to have the peace of mind in playing sports knowing that your braces and teeth would stay safe.