Do you or your teen have braces? You might have built your own routine to make sure your teeth stay in great shape to avoid any orthodontic emergencies. That said, if you’re an athlete, then you might worry about breaking your wires or brackets. The good news is that you can still be a part of the game; there are just a few precautions you’ll have to take. These are three tips you should follow.
Wear a Mouthguard
Possibly the most important tool you should have while playing sports is a mouthguard. Get an orthodontic-specific one as it will fit more comfortably over your braces. If you get a facial blow, the oral appliance will absorb the shock and redistribute it, lowering your risk of damage or breaks.
Avoid Certain Snacks
Before, after, and during the game, you might snack on certain foods to keep you going or to celebrate. Popcorn, some hard-to-chew protein bars, and similar items are a few popular choices, but they can be trouble for your brackets and wires. Simply steer clear of them to prevent any trouble and bring your own friendlier snacks. That way, you keep your head in the game and don’t worry about your braces.
Keep a Braces Kit on Standby
It’s always better to be prepared for an emergency, so keep a braces kit in your gear bag. You can have orthodontic wax, floss picks, a travel toothbrush, and other things in it, so you can handle any urgent situations with ease. Keeping pain relievers might also be a good thing to have in case your mouth is feeling a bit sore.
Just remember that what you do in the moment to hold a loose bracket or wire in place is a temporary solution. You will still need to visit your dentist to get a permanent one.
In the end, you can still play sports with braces, but there are extra precautions you should take during the game. While you might not be used to them at first, making them a habit can help you avoid any complications. That way, you protect your smile from any issues and stay on track toward your healthier bite.
About the Author
Dr. Mike Rolfes earned his dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He is proud to offer orthodontics, like braces, to the Port Orange community. Dr. Rolfes will stay at your side throughout your treatment, so you can avoid any delays and have a smooth experience. If you want more tips about taking care of this hardware while playing sports, schedule an appointment or call his office at 386-761-5883.