Getting braces is a big deal and a big investment. It changes what we can eat and how we take care of our teeth for a period of time. However, it doesn’t have to change everything! In fact, you’ll find you can do the same activities you did before – just with some extra caution and care. Many of our patients are are active and involved in extracurricular hobbies, including sports.
We recognize the importance of your sports passions. There’s no reason to discontinue your activities while undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners. Make sure you speak with your orthodontist about the sports you are engaged in. They will be able to guide you and help provide the kind of protection you need. Continue reading to find out our orthodontist's top tips for athletes with braces.
How to Protect Your Smile and Enhance Performance
If you or your child has braces, they are an essential part of orthodontic treatment. However, they can present some challenges for athletes. The combination of physical contact, high-intensity sports, and the delicate nature of braces can come with a risk of discomfort, mouth injuries, and damage to the teeth or braces. However, with the right tools and care, athletes can protect their braces, avoid discomfort, and continue to perform at their best. Here are some essential tips to help athletes with braces stay safe and comfortable during their sports activities.
1. Wear a Mouthguard: Protect Your Braces and Teeth
One of the most important tools for athletes with braces is a mouthguard. Mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth, gums, and braces from potential injuries, especially in contact sports like football, wrestling, basketball, and soccer. They also prevent damage to the braces appliances, and help reduce the risk of cuts and sores inside the mouth caused by the brackets and wires.
When you are in braces, your teeth are constantly moving. Because of this, a mouthguard that you used previously may not accurately reflect the current positioning of your teeth or fit comfortably. This means that you may be constantly purchasing new mouthguards to fit your moving teeth. A better approach to this would likely be to have your orthodontist make you a mouthguard that accounts for some of your tooth movement. This will allow you to wear the mouthguard for longer, and will make it a smart investment.
There are two main types of mouthguards:
Over-the-Counter Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and available in most sports stores. They are usually inexpensive and come in various sizes. Though they may not provide a perfect fit, most people can find something close that fits comfortably. While over-the-counter mouthguards are better than nothing, they often do not offer the same level of comfort and protection as a custom-made one. They also may not stay in place well, leading to difficulty speaking or communicating while playing. However, they are still a good option for athletes who need quick and affordable protection.
Custom Mouthguards: For a more secure fit and optimal protection, a custom-fitted mouthguard is the best option. These mouthguards are made by a dentist or orthodontist to perfectly match the shape of your mouth and allow room for your braces. Custom mouthguards offer better protection, a secure fit , and help prevent irritation to the inside of the mouth, which is often an issue with standard ones. Though they may be more expensive, the added comfort and protection they provide are worth the investment, particularly for athletes who engage in high-contact sports.
2. Consider Comfort Covers and Orthodontic Wax for Added Protection
Braces can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if the brackets and wires rub against the inside of your lips or cheeks. Orthodontic wax is a simple but effective way to minimize the irritation caused by braces. It can be applied to the braces brackets and wires to create a smooth surface and prevent irritating edges from scraping against your cheeks and lips. When playing sports, it's a good idea to apply the wax to any areas of the braces that feel particularly bothersome. Although orthodontic wax is a great tool for daily comfort, remember you may need to remove it before using a mouthguard, as it might interfere with the fit.
Another great tool to consider using is a comfort cover lip bumper. These soft, flexible covers fit over the brackets and can provide cushioning, preventing irritation and reducing the risk of cuts or sores. Comfort covers can help make wearing braces more comfortable and keep you focused on the game rather than on potential dental discomfort.
3. Regularly Check and Maintain Your Braces
Athletes with braces should pay extra attention to the maintenance and care of their braces and bite correcting appliances. Regularly check your braces for any loose wires, brackets, or bands that might cause issues during sports. If you notice any problems, visit your orthodontist as soon as possible to get them fixed. Loose or broken braces can lead to additional discomfort and make it harder to wear protective mouthguards properly. Additionally, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Braces can trap food and plaque, so keeping your mouth clean is essential to avoid cavities or gum infections.
4. Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink
Athletes with braces should be cautious about the foods and drinks they consume, especially before or after training sessions. Sticky, hard, or chewy foods can get stuck in the braces and pull the braces off, causing discomfort and damage. They can also increase the risk of tooth decay and gum irritation. If you wear a mouthguard, make sure to wash or rinse it after each use to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria.
5. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is essential for any athlete, but it’s particularly important for those with braces. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist, which in turn helps prevent your mouth from becoming too dry and irritated. A dry mouth can exacerbate discomfort caused by braces, as lips and cheeks tend to stick to the braces brackets. So always have a water bottle on hand, whether you're practicing or playing in a game.
6. Communicate with Your Coach
If you're playing contact sports, let your coach and teammates know that you wear braces. This can help raise awareness and encourage extra care during drills or games. Having good communication ensures that everyone is mindful of potential risks to your teeth and braces.
Conclusion
Athletes with braces don't have to compromise their safety or performance. By taking proactive steps, such as wearing a mouthguard, using comfort covers, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular dental care, you can enjoy your sport without unnecessary risks. With the right preparation, you’ll be able to focus on what matters most - performing your best! If you have braces and need a mouthguard, talk with our team at Godley Family Orthodontics or by scheduling an appointment online. We look forward to seeing you!
To learn more more about mouthguards, head to our Mouthguards Resources Page.