By Willis Orthodontics
smilesbywillis.com
Participating in sports is a fantastic way for kids, teens, and adults to stay active and healthy—but if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to take extra precautions to protect your smile. Braces are tough, but they aren’t invincible. Impact to the mouth during athletic activity can lead to broken brackets, bent wires, or worse—injuries to your lips, cheeks, or teeth.
At Willis Orthodontics, we believe in supporting our patients’ lifestyles while ensuring their treatment stays on track. Here’s how athletes can protect their smile while playing sports.
Why Protection Matters When You Have Braces
Whether you’re shooting hoops, scoring goals, or landing a perfect gymnastics dismount, physical activity often comes with accidental contact or falls. For those with braces, these moments can result in:
- Cuts to the inside of the lips and cheeks
- Damaged or loose brackets and wires
- Prolonged treatment due to necessary repairs
By understanding how to prevent these issues, athletes can stay focused on the game—not their orthodontic appliance.
Top Tips to Keep Your Smile Safe
1. Always Wear an Orthodontic Mouthguard
The single most important step you can take is wearing a mouthguard specifically designed for braces. Unlike standard mouthguards, orthodontic versions are made from softer materials and allow room for your braces and teeth to move during treatment.
Custom-fit mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort. At Willis Orthodontics, we can help fit you for one that suits your needs and offers maximum safety.
2. Choose Low-Contact Sports if Possible
While we don’t want to discourage any patient from pursuing their passion, lower-contact activities (like track, swimming, or tennis) pose fewer risks to your braces than high-impact sports (like football, hockey, or basketball). Still, protection is advised for any sport.
3. Avoid Sticky or Hard Snacks on Game Day
Snack bars, sports drinks, and sugary gums might be staples on the sidelines, but many of these can damage braces or get stuck around brackets. Stick with braces-friendly snacks like bananas, yogurt, or soft granola bars, and always brush after snacking.
4. Carry an Emergency Kit
Pack a small braces emergency kit in your gym bag that includes:
- Orthodontic wax (to cover sharp edges)
- Extra rubber bands
- A small mirror
- A travel toothbrush and toothpaste
- Our contact information
This kit can provide comfort until you’re able to visit our office.
5. Report Damage Immediately
If something feels off—whether it’s a poking wire or a bracket that’s come loose—don’t wait. Call Willis Orthodontics as soon as possible so we can evaluate and make any needed repairs to keep your treatment on schedule.
Q&A: Braces and Sports Safety
Q: Can I play contact sports with braces?
A: Yes, you can! Many patients with braces participate in football, basketball, wrestling, and other contact sports. Just be sure to wear a high-quality orthodontic mouthguard at all times.
Q: What’s the difference between a regular and orthodontic mouthguard?
A: Orthodontic mouthguards are specially made to accommodate braces. They’re slightly larger, made from softer materials to cushion impacts, and won’t hinder the movement of your teeth like standard guards might.
Q: What should I do if I get hit in the mouth and my braces are damaged?
A: Call Willis Orthodontics immediately. If you’re bleeding or in significant pain, seek medical attention first. Apply orthodontic wax to any sharp or protruding parts and use salt water rinses to soothe irritated tissues.
Q: Will a mouthguard affect my breathing or speech during the game?
A: A properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard should be comfortable and allow for normal breathing and speaking. We can help fit you with one that’s secure but not overly bulky.
Q: Can I get a custom mouthguard from Willis Orthodontics?
A: Absolutely! We offer custom orthodontic mouthguards that provide superior protection and comfort, tailored to your current stage in treatment.
Protecting Your Smile with Confidence
Braces don’t have to bench your athletic goals. With the right preparation and support, you can continue competing safely and confidently. At Willis Orthodontics, we’ll help you find the best solutions to protect your teeth while you play the sports you love.
If you or your child are an athlete with braces, let us know so we can recommend the best mouthguard options and provide tips tailored to your sport.
Contact Willis Orthodontics Today
Willis Orthodontics
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Want to learn more about braces and sports? Schedule a consultation or ask us about custom-fit mouthguards at your next visit. Your smile’s safety is our top priority—on and off the field!