What to Expect When Getting a Custom Mouthguard After Orthodontic Treatment

Finishing orthodontic treatment is an exciting milestone — after months or even years of braces or aligners, your smile is finally where it should be! Once treatment is complete, the focus shifts to keeping that smile protected, especially for kids and teens who are active in sports. At Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics, we offer custom lab-made mouthguards designed specifically for our patients who have finished treatment. These aren’t just any guards — they fit like a retainer and provide the comfort, stability, and protection your child needs. Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect when your child is fitted for a custom mouthguard.

Step 1: A Quick Consultation

After braces or aligners come off, Dr. Molly will talk with you and your child about their activities and lifestyle. If they’re playing contact sports or even just active in recreational leagues, a custom mouthguard can make all the difference in keeping their new smile safe. This is the perfect time to ask questions and make sure you understand the benefits of a custom-fit guard compared to over-the-counter options.

Step 2: Digital Scans for a Precise Fit

Instead of messy impressions, we use digital scanning technology to capture an exact 3D model of your child’s teeth. It only takes a few minutes, is completely comfortable, and ensures the mouthguard will fit just like a retainer. A great fit means better protection and makes it easier for your child to actually want to wear it.

Step 3: Custom Fabrication at the Lab

The digital scan is sent to a professional dental lab, where your child’s mouthguard is crafted with durable, high-quality materials. These guards are designed to handle the bumps, hits, and impacts that come with sports, while still being smooth, comfortable, and easy to talk with.

Step 4: Fitting and Adjustments

When the mouthguard is ready, you’ll come back to our Wyomissing office to try it on. Dr. Molly will check the fit, make sure it feels natural, and make any adjustments if needed. Most kids are surprised at how quickly they get used to wearing it — many say it feels just like a retainer!

Step 5: Care and Maintenance Tips

We’ll give you simple instructions on how to keep the mouthguard clean and fresh. A quick rinse after practice or games and a gentle brushing at home usually does the trick. With proper care, your child’s guard will last through the season and beyond.

Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?

While drugstore mouthguards may seem convenient, they rarely provide the snug fit and protection that a custom guard offers. A poorly fitting guard can slip, feel bulky, or fail to shield the teeth in the right way. A custom-made option is tailored to your child’s exact smile, so it stays put and keeps their teeth protected while they play hard and have fun.

Protecting the Smile They Worked Hard For

At Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics, we love seeing kids complete treatment with a confident smile — and we want to help keep it that way. A custom mouthguard is one of the simplest, most effective steps you can take to protect your child’s teeth after orthodontics.

Ready to Protect Your Child’s Smile in Wyomissing?

At Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics in Wyomissing, we love helping patients take proactive steps to keep their smiles healthy for years to come. If you’ve been experiencing signs of grinding or clenching, don’t wait until damage sets in. Schedule a consultation with us today to find out if a custom nightguard is right for you.