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As an athlete, nothing seems more important than playing sports. The excitement, the anticipation of a big game, and all the tough practices are worth it when you’re carrying that victory trophy across the field. Having braces while you’re an athlete may seem like a challenge, especially if you’re involved in a contact sport like football or rugby; however, we’re here to tell you that with a little extra care, you’ll be able to go into every game with confidence.
Athletes at More Risk of Damaging Braces
Your smile is a valuable part of your physical appearance and should always be protected, especially if you have braces. If you’re an athlete, there is more risk for damage to your wires and brackets, and one small injury can do quite a bit of damage. That’s why protecting your smile should be a top priority for you, not only during the game but at practice as well. Protecting your braces from damage will help you to achieve that perfect smile and limit your chances of having to have your braces on for a longer period of time. By utilizing proper equipment, like an orthodontic mouthguard, you’ll be playing sports worry-free in no time.
Orthodontic Mouthguards for Sports
A mouthguard is an essential piece of equipment in many sports; however, when you have braces, your regular mouthguard isn’t going to cut it. That’s why you’ll need an orthodontic mouthguard. These specialized mouthguards differ from regular sports mouthguards in a variety of ways. First, it doesn’t fit as snug as a regular mouthguard. This is because orthodontic mouthguards leave room to accommodate your brackets and the movement of your teeth. This type of mouthguard also isn’t as tight because you don’t want to risk it getting stuck around the brackets and becoming difficult to remove. Made specifically for patients with braces, an orthodontic mouthguard is generally available from your orthodontist.
Not everyone needs to wear a mouthguard, but if you play the following sports with braces, wearing an orthodontic mouthguard is a must:
- Football
- Rugby
- Lacrosse
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Hockey
- Baseball
- Wrestling
- Boxing
Orthodontic mouthguards are constructed so they don’t push into your brackets. If you’re wearing a mouthguard that is too tight, you can do a lot of damage if you happen to get struck down during a game or at practice.
Other Tips for Playing Sports With Braces
Many athletes play sports with braces every day. With a little added caution, you’ll be able to ensure a smooth treatment process. Even if you’re just practicing for a short amount of time, never forget to wear your orthodontic mouthguard. Just because you’re not at a game, doesn’t mean you still can’t damage your braces. If an unfortunate incident does occur and emergency orthodontic care is needed, call your orthodontist as soon as possible. Don’t try to fix any damage by yourself and don’t wait until your next appointment to address any issues. You don’t want to run the risk of your teeth moving incorrectly.
Keep these helpful tips in mind the next time you’re running out on the field. We know sports can play a vital role in your life and having braces shouldn’t interfere with what you love to do. Be careful, wear the proper equipment and stay positive. The road to victory is yours!
The team at Charleston Orthodontic Specialists is ready to help you get your game-changing smile. Call (843) 4-BRACES to get started on your journey today!
