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Braces are a big part of many people’s journeys to a healthier, more confident smile — but for athletes, they can also raise a few concerns. Whether you’re a student athlete in Massachusetts or an adult who stays active through recreational leagues, you might wonder: “Can I still play sports with braces?”
The good news is that you absolutely can. With the right protection and care, athletes can continue to compete safely throughout orthodontic treatment. Here’s what every player, coach, and parent should know about braces and sports.
Can You Play Sports with Braces?
Yes! Having braces doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines. Athletes with braces can safely participate in virtually every sport — from soccer and football to hockey, basketball, and beyond. The key is taking proper precautions to protect your mouth and orthodontic appliances.
The main risk during contact sports is impact to the face or mouth. Without protection, a collision or stray ball can cause cuts to the lips or gums, damage to braces, or even injury to the teeth. A well-fitted mouthguard helps prevent these injuries while also safeguarding your treatment progress.
The Importance of Mouthguards
A mouthguard is the single most effective tool for protecting your smile and braces while playing sports. It cushions the teeth and soft tissues, absorbs impact, and reduces the risk of damage.
Types of Mouthguards for Braces
- Stock mouthguards — Pre-formed and inexpensive but often bulky and uncomfortable. They offer minimal protection and may not fit well over braces.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards — Molded at home after softening in hot water. These fit better than stock options but may still press against brackets or wires if not shaped correctly.
- Custom orthodontic mouthguards — Professionally made by your orthodontist to fit comfortably over braces. These offer the best protection, comfort, and breathability during play.
If you or your child play contact sports regularly, a custom orthodontic mouthguard is the safest investment you can make.
Common Sports-Related Risks
Even with a mouthguard, it’s helpful to understand how sports can affect orthodontic care. Common risks include:
- Impact to the face — Can cause bracket breakage or wire displacement
- Soft tissue injury — Lips, cheeks, or gums may get caught on brackets
- Loose wires — A hit can bend or loosen wires, causing discomfort
- Tooth movement disruption — Damage to appliances can delay treatment progress
These issues are preventable with proper gear and awareness.
What to Do If You Have an Accident
If you experience a mouth injury or damage to your braces during a game or practice:
- Check for bleeding or swelling — Rinse gently with warm salt water.
- Inspect your braces — Look for loose brackets, bent wires, or sharp edges.
- Use orthodontic wax — Cover any sharp spots temporarily to prevent irritation.
- Call your orthodontist — Even if the damage seems minor, it’s important to have your braces checked.
Prompt repairs prevent complications and keep your treatment on track.
Sports That Pose Higher Risks
While all athletes should wear mouth protection, certain sports carry higher risks of facial impact:
- Football
- Hockey
- Basketball
- Wrestling
- Soccer
- Lacrosse
- Baseball or softball
Non-contact sports like running, tennis, or swimming generally pose minimal risk, but accidents can still happen — especially in practice or during recreational play. Wearing a mouthguard is a smart precaution in any active setting.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
Just like braces, your mouthguard needs regular maintenance. Follow these tips to keep it clean and functional:
- Rinse before and after every use with cool water.
- Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap (avoid hot water).
- Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth.
- Replace it if it becomes worn, distorted, or uncomfortable.
If you notice the fit changing after adjustments to your braces, let your orthodontist know — you may need a new mouthguard to ensure continued protection.
For Parents of Student Athletes
For parents, helping your child stay consistent with both sports and orthodontic care can take some coordination. Here are a few tips:
- Pack orthodontic wax and a small travel case in your child’s sports bag.
- Keep a backup mouthguard in case one is lost or damaged.
- Encourage your child to wear their mouthguard during practices as well as games.
- Schedule orthodontic adjustments around major tournaments or playoffs to minimize discomfort.
Staying proactive helps prevent setbacks and keeps your child focused on both performance and progress.
Balancing Treatment and Athletics
Athletes often worry about braces affecting their performance or comfort. Fortunately, modern orthodontic technology has made treatment smoother and more adaptable than ever.
Today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable, and clear aligners like Invisalign are even less intrusive for athletes who qualify. Aligners can be removed for short periods, such as during games or practices, making them especially convenient for non-contact sports.
Your orthodontist will help determine which treatment option best fits your athletic schedule and lifestyle.
Protecting Your Smile — Now and for the Future
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in both your health and your confidence. Taking simple steps to protect your braces ensures that the time and effort you put in leads to the best possible results.
Even after treatment, wearing a retainer and continuing to use a mouthguard during sports will help maintain your new smile for years to come.
Keeping Your Smile Safe While You Play
Playing sports with braces is completely safe — as long as you protect your teeth and appliances properly. With a custom orthodontic mouthguard, good communication with your orthodontist, and a bit of preparation, athletes of all ages can stay active and confident throughout treatment.
If you or your child are an athlete in Massachusetts considering braces, ARCH Orthodontics offers personalized guidance and custom mouthguards to keep your smile protected on and off the field. Schedule your free consultation today and play with confidence.