How To Manage Sports Injuries With Braces

If you or your child wears braces and plays sports, you might be wondering, “What happens if my child gets hit in the mouth?” or “How do I protect my child’s teeth and braces during games?”

You or your child can wear braces freely during sports, but it’s important to take a few precautions to avoid injuries, and to know what to do if one happens. Whether you’re on the soccer field, basketball court, or skating at the rink, being prepared can make all the difference in keeping your smile (and orthodontic treatment) on track.

In this blog, Woolaver Orthodontics wants you to know about how to stay safe during sports with braces, how to prevent injuries, and what steps to take if an accident does happen.

Is it Possible to Play Sports While Wearing Braces?

Yes! Braces don’t mean you have to sit out. You can keep doing everything from football and hockey to gymnastics. The key is being smart about protecting your teeth, lips, and braces from sudden impact. Without proper protection, even a light bump can cause damage like a broken bracket, a bent wire, or a cut inside the mouth.

How To Prevent Sports Injuries with Braces

1. Wear a Properly-Fitted Mouthguard

A mouthguard is hands-down the most effective way to protect your teeth and braces during sports. It acts as a cushion, absorbing the shock from falls, collisions, or flying equipment. More importantly, it protects your lips and cheeks from getting cut by brackets or wires.

There are a few types of mouthguards to choose from:

• Boil-and-bite mouthguards (available at drugstores): These can be molded at home and provide a decent fit.
  
  
• Orthodontic-specific mouthguards: These are made to fit over braces and give more room for teeth to move without restricting your treatment progress.
  
  
• Custom-made mouthguards: These offer the best fit and comfort but may cost more.

Whichever option you choose, make sure it fits well, feels comfortable, and stays in place while you’re playing.

2. Keep Your Mouthguard Clean

Rinse your mouthguard after every use and store it in a ventilated case. You can also brush it gently with toothpaste or soak it in a denture-cleaning solution a few times a week. A dirty mouthguard can lead to bacteria buildup, and that’s something you definitely want to avoid.

3. Check Your Braces Before and After Practices or Games

Give your braces a quick look before heading out to the field or court. If anything feels loose or pokes your cheek, let your orthodontist know before playing. Afterward, check again to make sure everything still looks right. Catching a bent wire or broken bracket early can save you from bigger issues later.

What To Do If You Get an Injury During Sports While Wearing Braces

Even with good protection, accidents can still happen. If you take a hit to the mouth or face during a game, here’s how to handle it:

1. Stay Calm and Rinse Your Mouth

First, rinse your mouth with water to clean out any blood or debris. If there’s swelling, use a cold compress to bring it down. Check for any broken brackets, loose wires, or signs of damage to your teeth or soft tissue.

2. Check for Loose Teeth or Braces

Gently touch your teeth and brackets. If anything feels loose, don’t try to fix it yourself. Cover any sharp or poking wires with orthodontic wax if you have it, and avoid eating hard or chewy foods until you can get checked out.

3. Call Your Orthodontist

If you’re unsure whether something needs attention, it’s better to ask. Most orthodontists offer advice over the phone or will schedule a quick repair appointment if needed. Minor damage can usually be fixed easily, but waiting too long can lead to delays in your treatment or further complications.

Signs You Do not Ignore If You Get Hit During Sports

Call your orthodontist or dentist if you notice:

• A broken bracket or wire
  
• A wire poking into your cheek or gums
  
• Persistent swelling or bleeding
  
• A tooth that feels loose or pushed out of place
  
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth

These are all signs that need professional attention, even if the pain isn’t severe.

Got Hit During Sports in Ahwatukee, Phoenix While Wearing Braces? – Contact Us

If you were hit in the mouth during a game or practice, take a moment to check your braces. Look for loose brackets, bent wires, or any swelling or pain. Even if it seems minor, it’s important to have it checked.

Woolaver Orthodontics is here to support you, whether it’s finding the right mouthguard or treating an unexpected injury.

If you were hit in the mouth during a game or practice, take a moment to check your braces. Look for loose brackets, bent wires, or any swelling or pain. Even if it seems minor, contact us today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Chris Woolaver and our friendly team are always a phone call away if you need guidance or an immediate appointment.

Frequently Asked Question About Braces and Sports Injury

1. Can wearing braces increase the risk of mouth injuries during contact sports?

Yes, braces can make certain injuries more likely because the brackets and wires can cause cuts or irritation if there’s a blow to the mouth. Without protection, the hardware can poke the inside of the lips or cheeks during impact. That’s why wearing a proper mouthguard is important for anyone with braces who plays contact sports.

2. What types of mouthguards are best suited for people with braces?

Mouthguards made specifically for braces work best. They offer extra space inside so they don’t press tightly on the brackets and wires. Custom-made mouthguards, usually made by a dentist or orthodontist, provide the best fit and protection. Boil-and-bite types can work too but might not be as comfortable for braces.

3. How soon should I see an orthodontist after a sports-related braces injury?

It’s a good idea to see your orthodontist as soon as possible after any injury involving your braces. Even if the damage seems minor, early evaluation can prevent bigger problems. If a bracket breaks, a wire bends, or you feel pain or swelling, scheduling an appointment quickly helps keep your treatment on track.

4. Are there specific sports where braces wearers should be extra cautious?

Sports with a higher chance of face or mouth contact, like football, hockey, and basketball carry more risk for people with braces. In these sports, it’s especially important to wear a well-fitting mouthguard to protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances. Even in less contact-heavy sports, accidents can happen, so precautions are always wise.