How Can I Protect My Smile While Wearing Braces for Sports?
October 19, 2024
When you’re wearing braces, playing sports can raise concerns about protecting your smile and your orthodontic appliances. Whether you're an athlete or just enjoy staying active, it’s essential to safeguard your teeth while ensuring your braces don’t get damaged during games or practice. In this article, we’ll cover the best practices for protecting your smile while staying active in sports, along with tips for maintaining your braces.
Why Is It Important to Protect Your Braces During Sports?
Braces are designed to straighten your teeth, but they are also sensitive to impact. If you’re not careful, a blow to the mouth can lead to broken brackets, bent wires, and even injury to your lips or gums. That’s why protecting both your braces and your teeth is critical during sports activities, especially those involving physical contact.
Common Questions Athletes Have About Braces and Sports
- Can I still play sports with braces? Yes! You can absolutely continue playing sports with braces, but you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect your teeth and appliances from injury or damage.
- Do I need a special mouthguard? Yes, standard mouthguards may not fit comfortably over braces, so it’s recommended to use a mouthguard designed for braces, which offers better protection and comfort.
- What happens if my braces get damaged during a game? If your braces get damaged, you should contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. A broken bracket or wire can cause discomfort and delay your treatment progress.
5 Essential Tips to Protect Your Smile While Wearing Braces in Sports
1. Wear a Mouthguard Designed for Braces
Wearing a mouthguard is the best way to protect your braces and teeth during sports. Mouthguards for braces are specifically designed to fit over your appliances and provide an extra layer of protection against impacts. Custom-made mouthguards are ideal, as they offer a more comfortable fit, but there are also great over-the-counter options available.
2. Choose the Right Type of Mouthguard
There are two main types of mouthguards: stock and boil-and-bite. Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear, while boil-and-bite mouthguards can be customized to your bite. If possible, opt for a custom-fitted mouthguard made by your orthodontist for the best protection.
3. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods Before Practice
Certain foods can weaken your braces and increase the risk of damage during physical activities. Avoid hard or sticky foods like popcorn, nuts, and candy before practice or games, as they can easily break brackets or bend wires.
4. Keep a Braces Repair Kit in Your Bag
In the unfortunate event that your braces are damaged during sports, having a repair kit on hand can be a lifesaver. A small kit with orthodontic wax, dental floss, and tweezers can help you manage any minor issues before seeing your orthodontist. The wax can cover sharp brackets or wires temporarily to prevent irritation.
5. Communicate with Your Orthodontist About Sports
Your orthodontist is your best resource when it comes to protecting your braces while playing sports. Let them know what activities you’re involved in so they can offer personalized advice. In some cases, they may recommend additional protective measures or provide you with specialized mouthguards.
What Sports Are More Likely to Cause Braces Damage?
Contact sports such as football, basketball, soccer, and hockey come with a higher risk of braces damage due to the physical nature of these activities. Even non-contact sports like gymnastics, skateboarding, or cycling can pose a risk to your braces due to accidental falls or impacts.
Here are some sports where a mouthguard is strongly recommended:
- Football
- Soccer
- Hockey
- Basketball
- Martial arts
- Boxing
- Skateboarding
- Gymnastics
What to Do If Your Braces Get Damaged
Accidents happen, even if you take precautions. If you notice that a bracket has come loose or a wire is out of place, don’t panic! Here’s what you can do:
- Assess the damage. If a wire is poking out or a bracket is loose, apply orthodontic wax to prevent discomfort until you can visit your orthodontist.
- Call your orthodontist. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible to repair the damage. Avoid delaying the repair, as it can affect your treatment timeline.
- Handle the area gently. While waiting for your appointment, avoid chewing on hard foods or applying pressure to the damaged area.
Conclusion
Wearing braces doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite sports, but it does require some extra attention to ensure your smile stays safe. By using a proper mouthguard, maintaining your braces, and being mindful of how you play, you can enjoy sports without compromising your orthodontic treatment. Always consult your orthodontist if you have any concerns about protecting your smile while staying active.