Sports provide great exercise, and they are a lot of fun. One downside is that there is a risk of injury. When a person is wearing braces there is an elevated risk of injury to the lips, cheeks, tongue and even the appliances themselves. How can you keep both your braces and your oral tissues safe while you are on the court, playing field or mat? Use this guidance on how to protect your braces while playing sports:
Wear a Mouthguard
Mouthguards reduce the risk of damage to your braces, so you are unlikely to have to worry about broken brackets or protruding wires. Plus, they can also greatly lower the chances that you will suffer from a knocked-out tooth, tooth fracture, or soft tissue injury in the mouth.
Mouthguards are especially important for contact sports, like football and wrestling. However, they should also be worn during sports that are traditionally considered to be non-contact, such as basketball and baseball (especially while batting).
Choose the Right Mouthguard
Here are some points to keep in mind while you are shopping for a mouthguard:
- Be sure to choose one that is designed to fit over braces.
- Custom mouthguards from a dentist tend to be more comfortable and more effective than over-the-counter options. However, if we’re actively moving teeth (with braces or aligners), then it doesn’t make sense to invest in a custom mouthguard until you are done with orthodontic treatment.
- Often, lower-priced mouthguards tend to be less effective than high-end ones. It is wise to make an investment in your oral health.
Keep Your Mouthguard Clean
If bacteria, dried saliva, and other substances collect on your mouthguard, it can begin to smell bad and taste unpleasant. Be sure to clean your mouthguard regularly. Usually, all you have to do is use a toothbrush and cool water after you’re done with the mouthguard for the day. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. You may also rinse it with an antibacterial mouthwash or use effervescent retainer/denture cleaning tablets.
Use the Mouthguard Properly
A mouthguard can only do its job when you are wearing it correctly. Do not spend large portions of your practices or games chewing on the mouthguard like you’re Steph Curry. If the mouthguard isn’t seated correctly on your teeth, then it’s not offering much protection.
Try to keep your mouthguard in a storage case that you can simply slip into your gym bag so you don’t forget it when you are heading to practice and competition. Some mouthguards come with a strap that you can use to attach it to a helmet so it doesn’t get lost in the chaos of an intense game.
Take Action in an Emergency
Of course, accidents can happen no matter how hard you try to protect your teeth and your braces. If you ever take a blow to the mouth that breaks your braces or harms your oral tissues, seek help right away.
- If you are bleeding excessively, believe you have a broken jaw, or are having difficulty breathing, go the Emergency Department of a local hospital.
- If one of your teeth is broken or feels loose, visit your general dentist.
- If your braces are damaged, call your orthodontist.
Your braces should not stop you from enjoying your favorite sports. By taking appropriate precautions, you can keep your entire smile healthy throughout your treatment period.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Ben Youel was raised in northern Illinois and is proud to provide orthodontic services for children and adults in the Grayslake community. If you have questions about braces or how to care for them, he and our team are ready to speak with you. Contact us at 847-548-4330.
