Playing sports is an awesome way to stay healthy, meet friends, and relieve stress—but if you’re wearing braces, it comes with some extra responsibilities. Whether you’re on the basketball court, soccer field, or hitting the gym, understanding how to protect your teeth while keeping your braces intact is key. At Embrace Orthodontics in Ann Arbor, MI, we want you to enjoy your favorite activities without compromising your smile.
Why Sports Can Be Risky With Braces
Braces are great for straightening your teeth and improving your bite, but they are delicate pieces of dental hardware. Metal brackets, wires, and clear aligners are designed to move your teeth gradually, not to withstand the impact of a stray soccer ball or an accidental elbow in basketball. A sudden hit to the mouth can bend wires, pop off brackets, or even damage your teeth. Even something as simple as falling on the playground or a rough tackle can create problems that extend your treatment time.
Additionally, braces can cause injuries if you get hit without protection. Wires and brackets can scrape the inside of your lips and cheeks, leading to painful cuts or sores. That’s why understanding the right precautions before stepping onto the field is crucial for keeping both your braces and your mouth safe.
Mouthguards: Your Best Friend in Sports
A high-quality mouthguard is a must for anyone wearing braces who plays sports. While many athletes know about mouthguards, not everyone realizes that standard stock guards aren’t always sufficient for braces. For optimal protection, you need a mouthguard designed to fit over your brackets and wires.
Custom-fitted mouthguards made by your orthodontist are ideal. They provide full coverage, don’t restrict breathing, and cushion the impact if you take a hit. Some boil-and-bite options can work in a pinch, but they may not fit as snugly or comfortably, which could make it harder to talk, breathe, or even play your best.
Wearing your mouthguard consistently—not just in official games—is essential. Even practice sessions can lead to accidents. Think of it like a helmet for your teeth: you wouldn’t ride a bike without one, so don’t hit the court without your mouthguard either.
Tips for Playing Safely With Braces
Protecting your smile doesn’t end with a mouthguard. There are several everyday habits that can reduce your risk of orthodontic injuries:
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Avoid high-risk maneuvers
Certain moves, like diving headfirst or aggressively checking opponents in sports like hockey or football, can dramatically increase the chance of injury. Play smart and stick to techniques that minimize contact when possible. -
Check your braces regularly
If a bracket loosens or a wire bends during a game, take a break and contact your orthodontist. Continuing to play with damaged braces can worsen the problem and extend your treatment. -
Keep orthodontic wax handy
Braces can irritate your lips and cheeks during contact sports, even with a mouthguard. Orthodontic wax acts as a buffer, reducing friction and preventing sores. -
Practice good oral hygiene after sports
Sweat, dirt, and food particles can get trapped in braces after a game. Make sure to brush and floss as soon as possible to prevent plaque buildup and maintain your oral health. -
Communicate with coaches and teammates
Let them know you’re wearing braces. Awareness can reduce accidental contact and make your sports environment safer.
Protecting Your Teeth Beyond the Field
Sports aren’t the only concern when you have braces. Everyday accidents like tripping on stairs or bumping into objects at home can also damage brackets and wires. Wearing a mouthguard isn’t just for official athletic activities—it can also be a good habit for high-risk situations at home or while riding bikes, skateboarding, or rollerblading.
Additionally, remember that braces are an investment in your long-term smile. Following these precautions not only protects your current orthodontic hardware but also ensures you reach the final result without unnecessary delays.
What to Do If an Injury Happens
Despite your best precautions, accidents can still happen. Here’s a quick guide for common orthodontic emergencies during sports:
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Loose or broken bracket: Save the bracket if possible and call your orthodontist. Do not attempt to reattach it yourself.
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Protruding wire: Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp edge and schedule a repair.
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Mouth injury: Rinse with saltwater to clean cuts, and seek professional care if the injury is severe.
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Tooth displacement: Contact your orthodontist immediately, as timing can be crucial for successful repositioning.
Keeping a small emergency kit with wax, a toothbrush, and a contact card for your orthodontist in your sports bag can make these situations easier to manage.
Balancing Sports and Orthodontic Treatment
The great news is that wearing braces doesn’t have to stop you from staying active. With the right precautions, you can continue participating in your favorite sports safely. It’s all about preparation: a custom mouthguard, awareness, and regular check-ins with your orthodontist can keep both your braces and your smile in top shape.
For teens and adults alike, sports are a vital part of health and social life. Braces shouldn’t hold you back—they just require a little extra care. By adopting safe habits, you’re ensuring that your smile and your athletic performance thrive together.
Embrace Orthodontics: Protect Your Smile While Staying Active
At Embrace Orthodontics in Ann Arbor, MI, we specialize in keeping smiles healthy and beautiful while our patients live their best lives. Whether you’re a weekend athlete or play sports competitively, we can provide guidance on choosing the right mouthguard, caring for your braces, and handling any orthodontic emergencies. Don’t let braces stop you from doing what you love—let us help you protect your teeth and your smile every step of the way.
Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we keep smiles safe during sports and beyond. Trust your teeth to an Ann Arbor orthodontist who understands the balance between active lifestyles and orthodontic care.
