Are you currently undergoing orthodontic treatment? Whether you’re an athlete or have an active lifestyle, we want to assure you that you can still play sports with traditional metal braces. However, our Ann Arbor, MI, orthodontist will recommend you take certain precautions to protect your smile during treatment.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Do I Protect My Braces While Being Active?
One of the most important steps you can take while is wearing a mouth guard. Mouth guards are designed to protect your teeth, lips, and braces from injury.
A custom-fitted mouth guard, which can be provided by our local orthodontist, is the best option because it’s molded to your teeth, providing maximum comfort and protection. Over-the-counter mouth guards are also available, but they may not fit as snugly or offer the same level of protection.
Mouth guards for dental braces work by cushioning any blows to the face or mouth, which is especially important when you have wires or brackets on your teeth. Without a mouth guard, a direct hit could damage your braces, cause cuts to the inside of your mouth, or even dislodge a tooth.
Whether you play contact sports like football or hockey, or engage in non-contact activities like skateboarding, an orthodontic mouth guard is essential for protecting both your braces and your teeth.
What Mouth Guard Is Best for Braces?
Not all mouth guards are created equal, especially when you have metal braces. A custom mouth guard provided by Dr. Bedi is ideal because it will accommodate the brackets and wires, offering the best fit and protection. If your teeth are still shifting, our Ann Arbor orthodontist may recommend a special type of mouth guard that can adapt to your changing smile.
Over-the-counter mouth guards can be less expensive but may not provide the same level of comfort or safety. These options may not fit well over braces and can become uncomfortable during prolonged use. It’s worth the investment to protect your smile, especially during orthodontic treatment.
How Do I Manage Minor Sports Injuries with Braces?
Even with a mouth guard for braces, it’s still possible to experience minor injuries while playing sports. If you do take a hit to the mouth and feel any discomfort, check your metal braces and teeth to ensure everything is still intact.
Sometimes, brackets can loosen or wires can become displaced. If this happens, make an appointment with our Ann Arbor, MI, orthodontics office as soon as possible to get everything back in place. Meanwhile, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp areas that may be irritating your gums or cheeks.
For cuts or sores inside your mouth, rinsing with warm salt water can help promote healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical ointments can also provide relief until you’re able to see our orthodontist.
What About Playing Sports with Adult Braces?
Getting braces as an adult is more common than ever. If you’re worried about how they’ll affect your athletic lifestyle, don’t be. Plenty of adult athletes, from runners to grapplers, start orthodontic treatment and keep pushing their limits.
The biggest difference for adults is being more proactive about care. Adults heal a bit slower and tend to have more dental history to consider. That makes proper hygiene, regular adjustments, and wearing protective gear even more important. Still, the same rules apply: protect your mouth, stay consistent with care, and see our orthodontist regularly.
Forget the Misconceptions & Go Play
The idea that don’t mix is outdated. People of all ages are getting dental braces put on and staying active in everything from soccer to jiu-jitsu. You don’t have to give up your athletic life just because you’re straightening your teeth.
The catch is that metal braces do introduce more risk for mouth injuries during contact sports. An accidental elbow to the face or a fall on the field can turn into a painful situation if you’re not prepared. That’s why wearing a custom mouth guard for braces is a must, not just for those with metal in their smile, but for all athletes.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Bedi
Our orthodontist in Ann Arbor, MI, is dedicated to helping you achieve your best smile while ensuring you stay safe on the field or court. If you have any concerns about playing sports with braces, contact our office for personalized guidance and recommendations. Call Enhance Orthodontics at (734) 821-7684 or request an appointment online.
This blog post has been updated.