Does Invisalign Double as a Mouthguard?

The Truth About Invisalign Double Duty: Mouthguard or Not?
Invisalign has been gaining popularity as a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth. But some people have started to wonder if Invisalign can also serve as a mouthguard during sports activities. After all, it looks like it covers the teeth, so it must provide some protection, right? In this blog post, we’ll discuss whether Invisalign doubles as a mouthguard or not.
First off, let’s talk about what a mouthguard actually does. Its main purpose is to protect your teeth, gums, and lips from impact during sports activities. A properly fitted mouthguard acts as a cushion between your teeth and any blows to your face. It also helps to prevent dental injuries that could end up being costly and painful.
On the other hand, Invisalign is a clear aligner system designed to gradually shift your teeth into a straighter position. With this cosmetic option, each aligner is custom-made to fit your teeth, but it’s not intended to provide any protection or cushioning during sports activities.
In fact, using Invisalign as a mouthguard could potentially damage or alter the aligners. The aligners are made of a thin, flexible plastic material that’s meant to be worn for about 22 hours a day, but they’re not meant to withstand the impact of sports activities. If you try to use Invisalign as a mouthguard, you risk damaging the aligners, which could delay or even derail your Invisalign treatment process.
Another point to consider is that using Invisalign as a mouthguard could be uncomfortable and lead to an improper fit. The aligners are designed to fit snugly around your teeth to apply pressure to specific areas to shift your teeth. If you try to use them as a mouthguard, they might not fit properly, which could result in discomfort or potential injury.
What about using a mouthguard with Invisalign?
It’s definitely possible to wear a mouthguard over your Invisalign aligners, but it’s important to do so correctly. You should always remove your aligners before putting in your mouthguard. When you’re finished with your sports activity, rinse your mouthguard thoroughly and clean your aligners before putting them back in your mouth.
In conclusion, Invisalign does not double as a mouthguard. It’s important to use a properly fitted mouthguard during sports activities to protect your teeth and prevent injuries. While it may be tempting to try to use Invisalign as a mouthguard, doing so could damage the aligners and delay your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about using a mouthguard or Invisalign, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us at Green Dental Care in Parker, Colorado. Dr. Green can provide guidance on the best solutions for protecting your teeth both during and after Invisalign treatment.