Playing Sports with Braces: How to Protect Your Smile

Having braces does not usually mean giving up the sport you enjoy. Most patients can continue training and competing, but protecting the teeth, lips and orthodontic appliance becomes especially important.

A suitable mouthguard and a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk of injury. Because every patient and appliance is different, ask your orthodontic team which type of protection is appropriate for you.

Why a mouthguard matters

A blow to the mouth can injure the teeth and soft tissues even when a person is not wearing braces. Brackets and wires can also press against the lips or cheeks during an impact.

A properly fitted sports mouthguard provides a protective barrier and helps absorb some of the force. Orthodontic patients may need a design that allows room for tooth movement and changes in the position of the braces. This is why it is better to ask the practice for guidance than to assume that any mouthguard will fit correctly.

Which sports require extra care?

Protection is particularly important in contact and collision sports, including:

• hurling and camogie;

• Gaelic football;

• rugby;

• hockey;

• boxing and other combat sports.

It may also be sensible during activities where a fall, ball, stick or accidental collision could cause an impact to the face. The level of risk varies, so discuss your sport with the orthodontic team.

Check your mouthguard regularly

Teeth move during orthodontic treatment, so a mouthguard that fitted previously may become tight, loose or uncomfortable. Check it regularly and bring it to an appointment if you are unsure about the fit.

Do not force a mouthguard into place or alter your braces yourself. The practice can advise whether the mouthguard still provides suitable protection or needs to be adjusted or replaced.

A simple pre-training checklist

Before training or a match:

• check that the mouthguard is clean and fits comfortably;

• look for obvious damage to brackets or wires;

• carry orthodontic wax if your team has recommended it;

• keep the practice’s contact details available;

• bring water and follow your normal oral-care routine after sport.

If an appliance already feels damaged or unusually uncomfortable, contact the orthodontic practice for advice before taking part.

What should you do after an impact?

Stop and check your mouth carefully. Contact the orthodontic practice promptly if:

• a bracket or wire is loose or broken;

• a wire is rubbing or cutting the mouth;

• a tooth feels loose or has changed position;

• there is persistent pain, bleeding or swelling;

• the appliance no longer feels normal.

Do not try to repair or reposition the braces yourself. Serious injuries, heavy bleeding, breathing difficulties, suspected jaw injury or a knocked-out tooth require urgent dental or medical attention.

What about clear aligners?

Clear aligners should not be assumed to work as sports mouthguards. Follow the instructions provided by your orthodontic team about when to remove and store the aligners and what protection to use during sport.

Do not place an aligner loosely in a pocket or sports bag. Store it in its case when removed and follow the prescribed wearing schedule.

Keep attending your orthodontic appointments

Regular reviews allow the team to monitor tooth movement, check the appliance and answer questions about sport, mouthguards or any recent impact. Tell the team about changes in your sporting activity, particularly if you start a new contact sport.

With the right protection and advice, orthodontic treatment and an active lifestyle can usually work well together.

How to Protect Your Smile When Playing Sports with Braces

If you or your child plays sport while wearing braces, contact our Ennis or Limerick team for guidance suited to the appliance and activity.

Ask our Ennis or Limerick orthodontic team about protecting your smile during sport.

This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for an individual assessment or professional dental advice.

Protect Your Smile While Playing Sports

Playing sports with braces is possible with the right protection. If you are unsure which mouthguard is suitable for your braces or orthodontic appliance, our specialist team can advise you. Contact our Ennis or Limerick clinic for personalised guidance during your treatment.

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