Just like keeping up your oral health by brushing and flossing, an integral part of a healthy lifestyle is staying active. However, when you have braces it’s essential to take some extra precautions to safeguard both your orthodontic investment and your teeth.
Teeth and jaw injuries are very common in both contact and non-contact sports, so making sure you have the right tools to keep yourself from being hurt is crucial. SKS Orthodontics has some valuable tips and methods of care you can use to protect your braces and teeth while still having fun and pursuing your athletic passions!
Ways To Prevent Injury & Dental Damage
A Quality Mouthguard
A good, well-fitting mouthguard will be the best line of defense during athletic activity and is highly encouraged for all athletes. It will cover your braces or aligners completely, while offering comfort and protection against any sort of dental or facial trauma. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, we can help recommend the options that will work best for you.
A common, accessible brand that offers durable mouthguard choices for athletes with braces is Shock Doctor, and can be purchased in most sporting goods stores or online. Keep your mouthguard clean and effective by rinsing before and after each use, soaking or washing with warm water and soap weekly, and keeping an eye out for signs of wear and tear – they can be replaced as needed. Always remember…NEVER chew on your mouthguard; you will break your braces!
Orthodontic Wax
Even outside of athletic activities, the protruding edges of brackets or wires can begin to cause some irritation. A way to help ease pain and prevent damage to the soft tissue of your mouth is to cover the problem areas with orthodontic wax. Simply break a pea-sized piece off, roll it into a ball, and press it onto the brackets as needed.
This is a quick and easy way to keep your gums safe from cuts or sores. We can provide containers of wax to you at your next visit, and it can also be purchased at most pharmacies. Wax may be kept on while eating, drinking, and sleeping, but make sure to replace it if food gets stuck near it.
Sports-Friendly Snacks & Drinks
Staying fueled properly during practice or a game is important to do your best. We recommend relatively soft and non-sticky foods like bananas, yogurt, and non-crunchy energy bars as needed for a quick snack to stay energized.
It may also be a good idea to skip excessive use of energy drinks and gels, and try to stay hydrated with water instead. The high acid and sugar content in sports drinks is a huge cause of tooth decay and enamel damage, as well as cavities and gum disease. White spots being left behind on your teeth, known as decalcification, after the braces come off is also something that can result from not brushing thoroughly after enjoying sugary drinks or snacks.
Communication With Your Team
Another important thing to remember is to always communicate with your coach and teammates, letting them know about your braces and the precautions you’re taking.
In situations where collisions can occur frequently, especially in contact sports, it’s a good rule of thumb to make sure everyone on the team understands the importance of being cautious around players with braces.
Here To Help You Stay Protected
Even though playing sports with braces requires a bit of extra care, it shouldn’t discourage an active lifestyle. Prevention is key, and staying proactive by implementing these measures will set you well on your way to successful and injury-free athletic seasons to come. Give us a call for more recommendations to keep your braces safe, and we’ll see you at your next SKS Orthodontics appointment!
