For many athletes, wearing braces while playing sports can be a new experience and may seem like an obstacle. However, with the proper preparation and precautions, you’ll be ready to go score the winning goal while wearing braces!
In this blog post, we will provide tips on how to safely participate in physical activity while wearing braces so that you can stay active and healthy while enjoying the benefits of your orthodontic treatment.
Wear the right gear
The right gear can prevent injury and avoid damaging your braces. Here are some tips on what equipment to wear when playing sports with braces.
- Mouthguards – They are crucial gear to wear when participating in sports with braces. They protect your teeth and gums from impacts and collisions that can cause injury and damage to your braces. Your orthodontist can recommend a custom-fit mouthguard designed to fit over your braces comfortably.
- Wearing a helmet – A helmet is an essential protective gear worn when playing sports involving potential head injuries, such as football or hockey. A helmet can protect your head, face, and braces from impacts and collisions.
- Faceguard – In sports like hockey or baseball, wearing a face guard or protective eyewear to shield your face and braces from stray balls or other equipment is essential.
- Proper footwear – Wearing the appropriate footwear can prevent slips, trips, and falls, which can cause injury and damage to your braces. Proper footwear can also improve your performance and reduce the risk of foot and ankle injuries.
Take care of your braces
Wearing braces is an investment in time and money. That’s why taking good care of them is essential, especially when engaging in physical activity.
To take care of your braces, you should:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods – These can damage or get stuck in your braces.
- Brush and floss after every meal – Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Wear a helmet – If you participate in a sport requiring a helmet, ensure it’s fitted correctly to prevent it from damaging your braces.
- Use orthodontic wax – If any part of your braces is rubbing against the inside of your mouth and causing discomfort, use orthodontic wax and contact your orthodontist to see if they can help.
See your orthodontist regularly
Regular visits to your orthodontist are important when wearing braces, especially if you participate in sports. During your visits, your orthodontist will check your treatment progress and ensure your braces are in good condition. They may also recommend a mouthguard or other device for your braces to better accommodate physical activity.
In addition, your orthodontist can also provide tips and advice on maintaining the health of your braces while playing sports.
Final Thoughts
At Graf Orthodontics, we want our patients to have fun and stay active, even while wearing braces. Following these tips allows you to continue participating in sports and physical activities without compromising your orthodontic treatment. Always prioritize safety, listen to your body, and communicate with your orthodontist if you experience any issues or concerns.
