Game On: Protecting Your Braces While Playing Sports

Table of Contents

Introduction

Why Protecting Your Braces is Essential

The Role of Mouthguards in Protecting Braces

Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Braces

Best Sports for Athletes with Braces

Common Sports Injuries Related to Braces

When to Visit Your Orthodontist After a Sports Injury

Caring for Your Braces While Staying Active

Benefits of Invisalign® for Athletes

Island Ortho's Commitment to Your Athletic Lifestyle

Island Ortho's Outstanding Reputation

Schedule an Appointment with Island Ortho Today

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions 

Introduction

If you're an athlete with braces, you might be worried about how to protect them while you play your favorite sports. Whether on the soccer field, basketball court, or even in a wrestling ring, safeguarding your braces should be a top priority. At Island Ortho, we understand how important it is to maintain your orthodontic treatment while enjoying your active lifestyle. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you protect your braces while playing sports.

Playing sports while wearing braces can be nerve-wracking. You may worry about getting hit in the face or damaging your braces, but there's no need to sideline your athletic dreams! With the right precautions and equipment, you can continue playing the sports you love without risking your smile. Here at Island Ortho, we understand your concerns and are here to guide you through every step of the process. Let's dive in! 

Why Protecting Your Braces is Essential

When you have braces, any impact on your mouth can cause significant damage, not only to your braces but also to your teeth, lips, and gums. Sports activities, especially contact sports like football, basketball, or wrestling, increase the risk of injury. Without proper protection, you could have broken brackets, bent wires, or even dental injuries that could delay your orthodontic treatment. To avoid these risks, it is crucial to maintain good braces care while engaging in sports. This includes using the right protective gear and understanding how to care for your braces properly.

The Role of Mouthguards in Protecting Braces

A mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to protect your braces while playing sports. A mouthguard is a flexible appliance worn in the mouth to prevent injury during contact sports. It is a cushion that absorbs shocks and minimizes the risk of breaking or damaging your braces.

Different Types of Mouthguards

There are three main types of mouthguards:

1. Stock Mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to wear, but they often don't fit well and can be uncomfortable.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Made from a thermoplastic material that softens when boiled, allowing you to mold it to your teeth. While these offer a better fit than stock mouthguards, they may not provide the best protection for braces.
3. Custom-Made Mouthguards: Crafted by your orthodontist to fit your teeth perfectly. They provide the highest level of comfort and protection.

Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Braces

When you have braces, a custom-made mouthguard is often the best choice. It is designed to fit over your brackets and wires, offering maximum protection without restricting your movement or comfort. At Island Ortho, we can help you find the perfect mouthguard to suit your needs.

Over-the-Counter vs. Custom-Made Mouthguards

• Over-the-Counter: Affordable and easily accessible but may not provide the best fit or protection.
• Custom-Made: Tailored to fit your braces and teeth structure, providing superior comfort and safety.

Best Sports for Athletes with Braces

Certain sports are less risky for athletes with braces. Activities like swimming, track and field, or golf pose minimal threat to your mouth and braces. However, contact sports like football, hockey, or martial arts require additional precautions, such as using a properly fitted mouthguard.

Common Sports Injuries Related to Braces

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. Common sports injuries that involve braces include cuts on the lips and cheeks, broken brackets, and displaced wires. If you experience any of these issues, it's essential to contact your orthodontist immediately.

When to Visit Your Orthodontist After a Sports Injury

If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time for an emergency orthodontic visit:

• Severe pain in your teeth or gums
• A broken or loose bracket
• A bent or protruding wire
  
  

At Island Ortho, we provide emergency orthodontic care to address any damage promptly. For assistance, contact our Mobile County locations at 251-344-7604 or our Baldwin County locations at 251-968-1310.

Caring for Your Braces While Staying Active

Keeping up with regular braces care is crucial, especially when you're active. Brush and floss after meals, wear your mouthguard during sports and check your braces for any damage regularly. If a bracket or wire breaks, use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges and schedule an appointment with your orthodontist as soon as possible.

Benefits of Invisalign® for Athletes

Invisalign® is an excellent alternative for athletes who want to avoid the risks associated with traditional braces. These clear aligners are removable, making them ideal for contact sports. Plus, they offer the benefit of easier cleaning and maintenance.

Island Ortho's Commitment to Your Athletic Lifestyle

At Island Ortho, we provide specialized orthodontic care that fits seamlessly into your active lifestyle. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Renee Dyken, Dr. Leslie Talbert, and Dr. Erin Bilbo, offers braces, Invisalign®, and custom mouthguards to protect you while playing the sports you love. With nine locations across Mobile and Baldwin Counties, we're always nearby to help you maintain your smile.

Island Ortho's Outstanding Reputation

Don't just take our word for it—Island Ortho has a 5-star Google rating with over 740 reviews! Our patients trust us to provide top-notch orthodontic care, and our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

"From the moment I booked our consultation, we felt welcomed and excited to start the braces journey. My son had his braces removed today and I'm in love with his smile. Staff is pleasant, office is beautiful. I highly recommend this establishment! Their treatment plans are excellent and affordable. Great experience." – Kerry W.

"I had my braces for 2 years and I hated my teeth before and I can't stop smiling now! Thank you Island Orthodontics!" – Miley B

Schedule an Appointment with Island Ortho Today

Ready to learn more about protecting your braces while staying active? Schedule an appointment with Island Ortho today! Call us at 251-344-7604 for Mobile County locations or 251-968-1310 for Baldwin County locations, or click HERE to learn more.

Conclusion

Protecting your braces while playing sports is essential to maintaining your smile and athletic career. You can enjoy all your favorite activities without compromising your orthodontic treatment by using the right mouthguard, practicing good braces care, and knowing when to seek professional help. Contact Island Ortho today to learn how we can help keep you in the game!

Frequently Asked Questions 

What types of mouthguards are best for athletes with braces?

Custom-made mouthguards are the best option, providing the highest comfort and protection.

Can I play contact sports with braces?

Yes, you can play contact sports with braces, but it's essential to wear a mouthguard specifically designed for braces.

How do I know if my mouthguard fits correctly?

Your mouthguard should fit snugly over your teeth and braces without feeling too tight or causing discomfort.

What should I do if my braces get damaged during a game?

If your braces become damaged, cover any sharp edges with orthodontic wax and contact your orthodontist immediately for an appointment.

Is Invisalign® a better option for athletes than traditional braces?

Invisalign® may be a better option for some athletes as it is removable, reducing the risk of injury during contact sports