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Wearing orthodontic braces is an excellent way to achieve an even, beautiful smile. A significant number of young athletes wear braces and need to follow basic safety guidelines. These guidelines can help prevent appliance breakage, oral injuries, and damaged teeth. In our practice, we specialize in adolescent orthodontics and have extensive experience with young athletes.
Parents know that teens are not always safety-conscious on their own. They may have the mistaken impression that it is safe to play sports without protective equipment for their braces. Parents need to ensure that their children have the right tools to protect themselves and the motivation to use them at every game and practice.
Playing Sports With Braces Carries Risks
Watching and playing sports is exciting. You may see baseballs traveling at high speeds, hockey pucks going airborne, and defenders knocking football players to the ground. Consider the hazards to the teeth of the person wearing braces. These include:
Impact Injuries
Sports equipment, other players' hands and elbows, and falls can all cause direct impact injuries. Your athlete may suffer soft-tissue damage in their mouth. When tender oral tissues are forced against braces, painful cuts may result.
Braces Damage
Even a minor blow can break a wire or bracket. Broken orthodontic appliances can cause oral injuries and delay treatment.
Protecting Your Young Athlete's Smile with Essential Gear
The most crucial piece of equipment for athletes with braces is a custom-made mouthguard. These guards offer superior protection compared to over-the-counter or "boil and bite" guards you may find at a pharmacy or sporting goods store. If your teen is in a lower-contact sport, you can opt for a boil-and-bite mouthguard. However, ensure the product is labeled 'braces-friendly' and made from medical-grade silicone.
Helmets or properly fitted face guards can help teens who play lacrosse, football, and hockey protect their faces while keeping their heads safer.
Protection Checklist Before the Game
- The mouthguard is in excellent condition and is used at all times on the field
- Orthodontic wax to cushion any parts of the braces that rub against oral tissues and prevent small cuts
- Push hydration, since a dry mouth increases irritation
After the Game
Check your teen's braces for any signs of damage, such as bent wires, loose brackets, or sharp edges. Call us if you encounter a problem.
Putting Safety First in Sports
If your teen balks at wearing proper protective equipment, ask us to explain why this step is so crucial. You can also ask their coach to emphasize this issue and ensure that every player wears mouthguards when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adolescent Orthodontics
Is a mouthguard uncomfortable?
It may take a day or so to adjust to the feeling, but a properly fitted mouthguard should feel natural.
How often should my teen see the orthodontist?
Appointment intervals vary, but every four to eight weeks is common. Your child's doctor will set their appointment frequency. If you have an emergency or have broken any appliances, call us immediately.
Our team at Hass Family Orthodontics wants to ensure that your young athlete balances the fun of sports with the protection of a mouthguard. Physical activity is essential for well-being, but it does not have to endanger orthodontic appliances. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, call us today.