Call (909) 627-0988Braces are one of the most reliable methods of orthodontic treatment for kids and teens. But wearing braces comes with lifestyle changes and limitations, and parents often ask: Can my kid play sports with braces? In this article, we answer this question and talk about essential protective measures for kids who play sports while wearing braces.
Can My Kid Play Sports with Braces?
Typically, braces do not prevent kids from playing sports. However, avoiding oral trauma is essential, as it can lead to breaking orthodontic appliances. Braces include brackets, wires, and bands attached to the teeth. During sports, especially contact or high-impact activities, a blow to the mouth can break brackets or wires, leading to lacerations and making the appliances ineffective, stalling the progress of orthodontic treatment.
Sports that require extra caution when wearing braces include American football, soccer, hockey, martial arts, boxing, and basketball. Even in non-contact sports such as skateboarding, gymnastics, or biking, accidents can still occur, so protection is strongly advised.
How a Mouth Guard Can Protect Orthodontic Appliances
A mouth guard is an appliance that covers both arches of the teeth and absorbs impact forces in the event of oral trauma. It reduces the risk of broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth, as well as broken dental restorations and orthodontic appliances. A mouth guard also protects soft tissues (lips, cheeks, tongue) and can prevent jaw fractures or dislocations.
There are two main types of sports mouth guards: custom-made and over-the-counter. We strongly recommend opting for a custom-made orthodontic mouth guard if your child wears braces, as its shape and fit will accommodate the appliances and tooth movement.
When it comes to over-the-counter mouth guards, boil-and-bite models may fit, as they are designed to mimic the shape of the user’s teeth, but they will need to be replaced often as the teeth move. However, ready-to-use mouth guards will not fit properly and are therefore likely to be ineffective and uncomfortable.
To ensure maximum protection, kids should wear their mouth guard during both games and practice sessions, not only during competitions. The mouth guard should be cleaned after every use with mild unscented soap and cool water and stored in a ventilated case. We recommend regularly checking the fit of the mouth guard, as changes in tooth alignment may reduce its effectiveness over time. A damaged or ill-fitting mouth guard should be replaced promptly to maintain proper protection.
What to Do if Braces Are Damaged When Playing Sports
If your kid’s braces are damaged or broken when playing sports, the first thing to do is to prevent the broken appliances from causing damage to the soft tissue in the mouth. You can apply orthodontic wax to sharp wires or brackets to prevent irritation. If lacerations have already occurred, have your kid rinse their mouth with saltwater or chamomile solution. Then contact your dentist to schedule a timely appointment for braces repair. If the damage and bleeding are severe, seek emergency dental help.
If brackets become loose or detach from the teeth, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible, as this type of damage can make braces ineffective and stall or reverse the orthodontic treatment process, increasing treatment time and financial costs.
Make an Appointment at Chino Aesthetic
If your kid needs orthodontic treatment or a custom-made mouth guard to protect their existing appliances during sports, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Chino Aesthetic. We are looking forward to your visit.