Orthodontic Specialists Emphasize Mouthguard Protection for Athletes with Braces

Wearing braces should not prevent individuals from participating in sports or maintaining active lifestyles, according to orthodontic specialists who emphasize the importance of proper protective measures. Many patients at orthodontic practices are student-athletes or adults who engage in recreational and competitive sports, making safety precautions essential during treatment. Braces and contact sports present specific risks that require careful management. Without adequate protection, accidental facial impacts can lead to injuries, discomfort, or damage to orthodontic appliances.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends mouthguard use for numerous sports including basketball, football, hockey, boxing, lacrosse, rugby, martial arts, volleyball, skateboarding, and track and field events. Mouthguards serve as the primary defense mechanism for athletes with braces, protecting not only teeth and gums but also brackets and wires from impacts that could disrupt orthodontic progress. For patients with braces, prefabricated orthodontic mouthguards represent the optimal choice as they accommodate brackets and allow for tooth movement, unlike boil-and-bite or custom-fitted alternatives that may interfere with treatment.

Proper mouthguards should be tear-resistant, breathable, easy to clean, and comfortable without restricting speech or airflow. Maintenance protocols prove equally crucial for effective mouthguard protection. After each use, gentle brushing with toothpaste and proper storage in ventilated cases prevents moisture accumulation and odor development. Mouthguards should be kept away from direct sunlight and hot water to avoid warping, and replacement at the start of each sports season or when wear becomes evident ensures continued protection.

Despite precautions, accidents may occur that damage teeth, brackets, or wires. Immediate contact with orthodontic professionals allows for prompt management, including application of orthodontic wax to irritated areas and rinsing with warm salt water to reduce discomfort. For some patients, particularly those in non-contact sports, Invisalign aligners offer an alternative approach as their removable nature allows for temporary removal during physical activity when appropriate. Orthodontic professionals can assess individual activity levels, lifestyles, and treatment goals to recommend the most suitable approach, whether traditional braces or alternative systems.

The emphasis remains on providing orthodontic care that supports rather than limits active participation in sports and physical activities while ensuring treatment progress and patient safety. This approach allows individuals to continue pursuing their athletic goals without compromising their orthodontic treatment outcomes or dental health.