Orthodontic Treatment and Sports: What Athletes Need to Know

If you or your child is active in sports, you’ve probably thought about mouthguards, helmets, and protective gear. But orthodontic treatment? It might not be the first thing that comes to mind. The good news is that braces or aligners don’t have to slow you down. With the right precautions and a little planning, athletes can stay in the game throughout their entire treatment.

Can You Still Play Sports With Braces?

Yes, absolutely. Thousands of athletes at every level, from weekend soccer players to competitive high school athletes, go through orthodontic treatment without missing a beat. The key is being prepared and knowing what to watch out for.

The biggest concern with braces and contact sports is the risk of injury to the mouth. If you take a hit to the face, brackets and wires can cut the inside of your lips and cheeks. This is why wearing a mouthguard isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential. A mouthguard creates a protective barrier between your braces and your soft tissue, significantly reducing the risk of lacerations.

What Kind of Mouthguard Should You Use?

Standard mouthguards aren’t always designed to fit over braces, so it’s important to use one that’s specifically made for orthodontic patients. These are typically larger and more flexible, allowing room for the brackets and wires. Dr. Papasikos can point you in the right direction and make sure you have something that actually fits and protects.

If you’re in clear aligner treatment, the situation is a little different. Aligners are removable, so for contact sports, you can take them out and wear your regular mouthguard. Just make sure you’re putting your aligners back in as soon as you’re done because consistent wear is what keeps your treatment on track.

What Happens If Something Gets Damaged?

It’s not uncommon for an athlete to take a hit and come away with a bent wire or a popped bracket. If that happens, don’t panic. Rinse your mouth, check for any sharp edges, and use orthodontic wax to cover anything uncomfortable. Then call Papasikos Orthodontics in Montclair to get it looked at. Minor issues can usually be addressed quickly, but it’s important not to ignore them, since damaged hardware can slow down your progress.

A Few Practical Tips for Athletes in Treatment

Stay hydrated. Dry mouths are more susceptible to irritation, especially when you’re wearing braces. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after practice. Also, be mindful of what you eat during the season. Hard, crunchy snacks, the kind athletes often reach for on the go, can damage brackets. Stick to softer options when you can and save the hard stuff for after treatment.

If you’re heading into a heavy training season or have a big tournament coming up, let Dr. Papasikos know. Timing adjustments and scheduling can sometimes be planned around your season so that you’re not dealing with extra soreness during your most demanding weeks.

The Bottom Line

Being an athlete and going through orthodontic treatment at the same time is completely manageable. Plenty of patients at Papasikos Orthodontics in Montclair, NJ play competitive sports throughout their treatment and finish with both a great smile and their athletic routine fully intact. It just takes a little preparation and open communication with your orthodontist.

If you have questions about how treatment fits into your or your child’s athletic schedule, reach out to our office. We’re happy to walk you through everything and make sure your treatment plan works with your life, not against it.