How Can I Protect My Braces When Playing Sports?

Posted on June 18, 2024

When is the best age to start orthodontic treatment? According to the American Association of Orthodontists, when a child turns 7, they can begin. Children that age or older also like to play sports, but how can they participate in things like soccer, cheerleading, gymnastics, baseball, football, or other games without putting their braces at risk? Here are several ways to do just that.

Wear a Mouthguard

There are a couple of risks when it comes to playing sports and wearing braces. First, the braces can rub across the gums when there is contact, which can cause cuts and abrasions. Second, the braces can be loosened, or the wires can be damaged. Both of these can be prevented by wearing a mouthguard.

There are many different types of mouthguards available. Some of them can even adapt and change their shape as the braces treatment goes on. Mouthguards can keep the braces from rubbing up against your child’s gums and also protect them from any contact, whatever the sport. Orthodontists regularly recommend them.

Take Care of the Mouthguard

Getting the mouthguard, whether it’s a standard one or custom-made, is only half the battle. You need to take care of it, which means keeping it clean. Rinse it out with water and wash it with soap to keep it clean. You can even soak it in mouthwash to get rid of germs.

Are you worried about your child losing the mouthguard? There are ones that have straps on them, so you can attach them to a helmet or other piece of equipment. That way, it will always stay with them.

Wearing a mouthguard can take some getting used to, especially for children. With that said, it can be easy to adapt to, and soon it will feel natural. Be sure that it always fits right, and get a new one right away if it gets damaged. That way, you can always be sure that your teeth and your braces will be protected whether you’re on the basketball court or the sidelines with the cheerleading squad.

Braces are an expensive investment, and you want to make sure that they do their job properly. Once your child gets them taken off, it’s a good idea to have them continue to wear a mouthguard to protect their straight teeth. That will make the investment worth it.

Are you looking for orthodontists in your area to fit your child with braces? We can help your child get a fantastic smile with straight teeth. Contact us at Chelian Orthodontics today for an appointment.