When you first get braces, you probably aren’t thinking about the impact they can have on the sports you play. While you might not think about it, your braces are at risk of serious harm if you aren’t mindful of them during each game. However, there are several ways to protect your braces while playing sports that everyone should know when they first make the investment in their orthodontic journey.
At Bailey Orthodontics, we understand how important sports are to orthodontic patients across the nation. Not only are sports a great way to stay active, but they are also a wonderful way to build teamwork and have fun. If you want to learn more about how to protect your braces while playing sports, keep reading to see what our team recommends.
The Potential Harm Your Braces Face
Playing sports with braces can be risky if proper steps aren’t taken to protect them. A sudden impact or collision during contact sports like football or basketball can damage your braces, leading to broken brackets, bent wires, or even injuries to your mouth. When this damage occurs, you may develop sores or cuts to your lips, cheeks, or tongue.
Additionally, the force from a hit can shift your teeth in the wrong direction, potentially undoing progress. Protecting your braces while playing sports is essential to avoid these setbacks and ensure a smooth treatment journey. But what tools are equipped to help you protect your braces during your game?
How to Protect Your Braces While Playing Sports
If you want to protect your braces while playing sports, one of the easiest ways to do so is by investing in a properly fitting mouth guard. Mouth guards are designed to absorb and distribute the force of impact, protecting your teeth, braces, and the soft tissues in your mouth. There are different types of mouth guards available:
- Stock Mouth Guards: These mouth guards are pre-formed and ready to wear. While they are ready to wear right out of the package, they might not provide the best fit and protection while playing sports.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards: Boil-and-bite mouth guards are designed to soften in hot water and mold to your teeth. They fit much better than stock mouth guards, making them a good next step to protect your braces.
- Custom-Fit Mouth Guards: Made by your orthodontist or dentist, these mouth guards offer the best fit and protection. Although they are more expensive, they are worth the investment for anyone who plans to play sports throughout their orthodontic journey.
If you have braces, you should choose a mouthguard specifically designed for orthodontic patients. These mouthguards provide extra space for your braces and allow for changes in your teeth’s alignment. A properly fitted mouthguard will protect your braces without hindering your performance on the field.
Other Important Things to Keep in Mind
While a mouth guard is a great way to protect your braces while playing sports, there are a few other things you should keep in mind. First, you might want to consider avoiding contact sports while wearing braces. Contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing pose a higher risk, while non-contact sports like swimming or running are generally safer for your braces.
If you choose to participate in these contact sports, wearing a mouth guard is non-negotiable. Additionally, you should be mindful of your teammates and opponents when playing. In team sports, collisions with other players are common. Be aware of your surroundings and try to avoid situations where you could take a hit to the face.
This doesn’t mean you should shy away from the action, but a little extra caution can go a long way in protecting your braces. Finally, you should remember to keep a small braces repair kit on hand if you run into any potential damage. Accidents can happen, even with the best precautions. Keeping a kit in your sports bag can allow you to protect your braces while playing the game.
Your braces repair kit should include a small mirror, dental floss, orthodontic wax, and over-the-counter oral gels or pain medications. If you experience an orthodontic emergency, like a bracket or wire getting damaged, you can use the wax to cover any sharp edges and prevent further injury until you can see your orthodontist.
The Importance of Prompt Repairs
Prompt repairs following an orthodontic emergency caused by sports are crucial to prevent further complications. When your braces are damaged—such as a broken bracket or bent wire—your teeth may not move as planned, delaying your treatment. Additionally, sharp or loose components can cause injuries to your gums, cheeks, or tongue.
Addressing these issues quickly ensures that your orthodontic progress stays on track and prevents any unnecessary pain. By seeing your orthodontist promptly after an injury, you can avoid setbacks and maintain the health of your teeth and gums throughout your treatment. If you want to protect your braces from any additional damage and ensure you can have them removed on time, these repairs are essential.
Ensure the Best Orthodontic Journey with Bailey Orthodontics
Playing sports while wearing braces doesn’t have to be a risky endeavor. With the right precautions, you can protect your braces and enjoy your favorite activities without worry. Remember to wear a mouthguard, avoid high-risk situations, and keep a close eye on your braces after every game. By taking these steps, you’ll protect your investment in a beautiful, healthy smile.
Another great way to protect your investment is by working with an orthodontic team you can trust, like our team at Bailey Orthodontics. With years of experience helping patients across the Farmington and Bountiful areas achieve the smile of their dreams, we’re confident that our team can do the same for you.
If you are ready to begin your orthodontic journey or if you’ve recently experienced a sports-related orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to contact us today for support.
