Dr. King Answers: Are Sports Mouthguards Compatible With Braces?

Q: Can my child get a sports mouthguard if he wears braces?

A: Yes -- for sure! Mouthguards are recommended for many sports -- such as football, hockey, wrestling, softball, baseball, lacrosse, basketball and volleyball. Interestingly, sports mouthguards are not recommended for soccer or swimming.

At King Orthodontics, we provide free mouthguards for all of our athletes to help keep their teeth and braces safe. Also, there is some evidence that mouthguards might help in preventing concussions.

At King Orthodontics, we also offer custom professional-style mouthguards after braces or Invisalign® treatment completion. Such pro-style guards are just that: the exact, same thing that a Minnesota Vikings, Twins or Timberwolves player would wear.

Keep smiling, and see you soon -- maybe for a sports mouthguard!
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SOURCE: Invisalign®: Living With Invisalign

Dr. King Answers: What Is a Deep Bite?

Q: What is a deep bite?

A: Deep bite, or deep overbite, occurs in approximately 15% to 20% of the U.S. population.[1]

Some overbite is good. The upper front teeth should overlap, or overbite, the lower front teeth -- but only by a little bit.

Approximately one-fourth to one-third of the height of the lower front teeth should be covered by the uppers when your bite is closed. When more than one-third is covered, it is considered a "deep bite."

Many deep overbites fully hide the lower teeth and can be quite detrimental. If extremely deep, enamel wear and chipping will add up over the years.

Deep overbites are very treatable with orthodontic braces and, sometimes, Invisalign®. Creating a healthy and safe amount of overbite allows proper chewing and eliminates enamel wear.

Do you have a deep overbite? Stop by for a fee consult at King Orthodontics. Keep smiling, and see you soon.

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SOURCES: National Center for Biotechnology Information [NCBI] [1], Invisalign® [image]

Welcome to King Orthodontics' Blog

Visit us here to read Dr. King's answers to common orthodontic questions -- and to learn helpful information about our offices, our treatment options and our outcomes.

We hope this blog will be beneficial to patients, potential patients and parents interested in achieving that perfect smile.