Mouthguards
Mouthguards For Active Smiles In Woodbury, MN
If your child plays hockey, football, lacrosse or another sport, protecting their smile is an important part of being an athlete. At Horton Orthodontics, we want our patients to feel confident doing the things they love while taking care of their teeth and orthodontic appliances. That is why we have partnered with Goon Guard to offer affordable, comfortable mouthguards for our patients and families.
What Are Mouthguards?
Mouthguards are protective appliances worn over the teeth during sports and other activities where there is a risk of an impact to the mouth. Properly fitted mouthguards can help protect the teeth, gums and soft tissues from injuries caused by collisions, falls, sticks, balls and other equipment.
For athletes with braces, protection is especially important. A hit to the mouth can damage brackets or wires and cause cuts or irritation to the lips and cheeks. The right mouthguard is designed to fit comfortably over your orthodontic appliances without interfering with your treatment.
At Horton Orthodontics, we can help you understand what type of protection makes sense for your smile and your sport. We have partnered with Goon Guard to make mouthguards available to our patients and families at a low price. Goon Guard offers braces-friendly options that can be remolded as your teeth move throughout treatment.
Who Needs A Mouthguard?
If you participate in a contact or collision sport, wearing a mouthguard is an easy step you can take to help protect your smile. Hockey, football, lacrosse, wrestling and martial arts are just a few examples of activities where dental injuries can occur. Even sports that do not involve frequent contact can involve falls or unexpected impacts.
This is especially relevant for families involved in hockey. Beginning with the 2026-2027 season, Minnesota Hockey requires Squirt/10U and older travel-level and competitive players, including goalkeepers, to wear a colored, tethered internal mouthguard. The guard must be securely attached to the helmet or facemask, clearly visible and cover the remaining teeth of one jaw, typically the upper jaw.
What Is The Process For Getting A Mouthguard?
Getting started with mouthguards through Horton Orthodontics is simple. Our team can help you determine what type of guard is appropriate for your needs, including whether you need a strapped option for your sport.
Because every athlete and every smile is different, fit matters. A guard should stay in place while you play without making it difficult to breathe, speak or stay hydrated. Goon Guard mouthguards are designed to mold to your teeth and can be remolded as your smile changes during orthodontic treatment.
Once you have your guard, follow the fitting instructions provided with the product. Goon Guard offers both microwave and boiling fitting methods. If you have braces, be sure to follow the braces-specific fitting directions so the guard forms around your orthodontic appliances appropriately.
Proper Mouthguard Care
Take care of your mouthguard by rinsing it after use, allowing it to dry and storing it in a protective case. Check it regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure you replace it when it no longer fits properly or has become worn.
FAQs
Have questions about mouthguards? We are happy to help! Here are answers to a few common questions we hear from athletes and families.
Protect Your Smile While You Play
Your smile should never have to sit on the sidelines. Whether you or your child are gearing up for hockey season or another contact sport, Horton Orthodontics is here to help.
We are proud to offer Goon Guard mouthguards to our patients and families at a low price, with options that can work with braces and growing smiles. If you have questions about finding the right protection, reach out to our friendly team. We are always happy to help you keep your smile healthy while you do what you love. Request your complimentary consultation today!
Locally Owned and Smiles That Are Locally Grown
Individualized Orthodontic Care In Woodbury, Minnesota
Dr. Horton is a board certified orthodontist with years of experience and expertise in her field. She is proud to provide a locally owned and operated practice that offers a welcoming environment and cutting-edge orthodontic technology for all patients. Get started with the smile of your dreams today!
