One of the most common questions I get from parents of active kids is, “Can my child still play sports with braces?” The good news is that yes, children with braces can absolutely continue participating in their favorite sports. With a few precautions, your child can stay safe and comfortable on the field or court, enjoying all the benefits of an active lifestyle while maintaining their orthodontic treatment.
Let’s explore how braces and sports can coexist, the protective gear that makes it possible, and some helpful tips for managing braces care when your child is active in sports.
Why Protecting Braces During Sports is Important
Braces involve brackets, wires, and bands that apply gentle pressure to align teeth over time. While durable, these components are still vulnerable to impacts, especially in contact sports like football, basketball, soccer, and hockey. Without proper protection, an impact to the mouth can damage braces, cause discomfort, or even result in dental injuries.
Additionally, when children have braces, their lips, cheeks, and gums are more prone to irritation or injury. Protecting the mouth with the right equipment is essential to prevent cuts and minimize the risk of any setbacks in treatment.
The Importance of Mouthguards for Kids with Braces
Mouthguards are the most effective way to protect both braces and teeth during sports. When properly fitted, a mouthguard cushions the impact of a blow to the face, helping to prevent cuts, broken brackets, or tooth damage. Here are the main types of mouthguards and why a specific type works best for kids with braces:
- Orthodontic Mouthguards: Designed specifically for patients with braces, orthodontic mouthguards have extra room to fit over the brackets and wires comfortably. They’re made from flexible materials that won’t interfere with orthodontic movement, and they can be adjusted as teeth shift during treatment. Orthodontic mouthguards provide maximum protection and comfort, making them the top choice for children with braces.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These mouthguards are softened in hot water and then molded to fit the mouth. While boil-and-bite mouthguards can provide decent protection, they are not ideal for kids with braces because they don’t adjust as teeth shift. If your child’s mouth changes shape, you may need to replace this type frequently, which can be inconvenient.
- Stock Mouthguards: These come pre-formed and ready to wear. Stock mouthguards are often less expensive, but they don’t offer the same level of fit or protection as orthodontic mouthguards. Since they may feel bulky and uncomfortable, children may be less inclined to wear them consistently.
At Simple Orthodontics, we recommend orthodontic mouthguards for our patients because they’re designed to fit over braces without affecting alignment or comfort. These mouthguards allow your child to focus on their sport while keeping their smile safe.
Tips for Wearing and Caring for a Mouthguard with Braces
Once your child has an orthodontic mouthguard, here are some helpful tips for making it part of their sports routine:
- Encourage Consistent Use: Remind your child to wear their mouthguard during all practices, games, and matches, even for non-contact sports. Consistent use helps prevent injuries from accidental bumps or falls, which can happen even in lower-contact sports.
- Keep the Mouthguard Clean: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent bacteria buildup. After each use, rinse the mouthguard with cool water and clean it with mild soap or a mouthguard cleaner. Let it air dry before storing it in a ventilated case.
- Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can warp the mouthguard, affecting its fit. Always rinse with cool or lukewarm water and keep the mouthguard out of direct sunlight or high temperatures.
- Store It in a Protective Case: A ventilated case keeps the mouthguard safe from damage, dust, and bacteria. Having a designated case also makes it easier for your child to remember where they put it, reducing the risk of losing it.
- Check the Fit Regularly: As your child’s teeth move, check that the mouthguard continues to fit comfortably over their braces. If it feels tight, loose, or uncomfortable, bring it to their next orthodontic appointment for assessment. We can help with adjustments or recommend a replacement if needed.
Managing Braces Care for Active Kids
Playing sports can lead to unique challenges for kids with braces, from staying hydrated to handling braces-related discomfort. Here are some tips for managing braces care while keeping up with a busy sports schedule:
- Stay Hydrated with Water: Many sports drinks contain high levels of sugar and acidity, which can damage teeth and increase the risk of cavities, especially around brackets. Encourage your child to choose water over sugary drinks to keep their mouth healthy and their braces clean.
- Pack a Braces-Care Kit: A small kit can be a lifesaver for kids with braces on the go. Include items like orthodontic wax for irritation, a travel toothbrush and toothpaste, floss picks or threaders, and a small bottle of mouth rinse. This way, if they experience any discomfort or need to clean their braces, they’re prepared.
- Apply Orthodontic Wax as Needed: If your child plays a sport that involves a lot of running or movement, they may find that brackets occasionally rub against the inside of their cheeks. Applying orthodontic wax over the brackets can reduce irritation and help prevent sores.
- Watch for Loose Wires or Brackets: It’s normal for wires or brackets to occasionally come loose, especially if your child plays a high-contact sport. If this happens, don’t panic—simply have your child use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp areas and contact our office. We’ll schedule an appointment to make the necessary adjustments and get their treatment back on track.
Addressing Common Concerns for Parents and Kids
- Will braces make my child’s mouth more vulnerable to injuries?
– With proper protection, braces won’t increase your child’s risk of injury. In fact, wearing a mouthguard helps reduce the risk of injuries that could damage both the braces and teeth. Orthodontic mouthguards are designed to provide a cushion that absorbs impact, helping to prevent dental trauma.
- What if my child’s mouthguard doesn’t fit anymore?
– As orthodontic treatment progresses, teeth shift, which can change the fit of the mouthguard. If the mouthguard no longer fits comfortably, bring it in for evaluation. We can often make minor adjustments, or we may recommend getting a new mouthguard to ensure maximum protection.
- Can my child wear a regular mouthguard over braces?
– Regular mouthguards don’t account for the brackets and wires in your child’s mouth, so they may feel tight, uncomfortable, and even interfere with treatment. Orthodontic mouthguards are specifically designed for braces, allowing for comfort, protection, and continued tooth movement.
- How can I help my child remember to wear their mouthguard?
– Creating a consistent habit is key. Remind your child to put their mouthguard in before practices and games and store it in their sports bag or a designated case so it’s always within reach.
The Benefits of Staying Active with Braces
Staying active is essential for a child’s physical health, mental well-being, and social development. Braces shouldn’t stand in the way of sports, hobbies, or activities that bring your child joy. With the right precautions, braces and sports can go hand in hand, allowing your child to enjoy the best of both worlds—a healthy, active lifestyle and a beautifully aligned smile.
At Simple Orthodontics, we’re here to support your child’s orthodontic journey, including providing guidance on protecting braces during sports. If you have any questions about mouthguards, braces care, or managing orthodontics for an active child, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re committed to making sure your child’s treatment is as smooth, safe, and enjoyable as possible. Let’s work together to keep your child’s smile healthy and their confidence high, both on and off the field!
