Braces and Contact Sports: Problems and Solutions
You should be careful about participating in sports during your orthodontic treatment, and you should be aware of the potential problems so that you can prevent them. Here are some common problems people with braces have when they play sports, plus some potential solutions.
The Problems
Engaging in sports while wearing braces creates the risk of both injuries and damage. All sports come with risks, but risks are higher for contact sports than non-contact sports, especially when the player has braces. For example, you may suffer damages or injuries if:
- You collide with another object, such as a goalpost
- You collide with another person
- Another object, such as a flying ball, hits you
- You fall
In short, any physical force to your mouth can cause problems. Below are some of the problems you might face.
Damages to Braces
A serious blow to your mouth can damage your braces. For example:
- An archwire that holds the brackets can bend or break
- A metal band can move out of its usual position
- A ceramic bracket can crack
- A plastic chain can snap
In short, a lot can go wrong if you experience a strong blow to your mouth. Additionally, you will have to go back to the orthodontist for correction, which takes time and may cost money.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Dental braces are hard materials. In fact, metal is a common material for braces. Any force that twists or dislodges the braces can make them pierce, scratch, or cut your soft oral tissues. The gums, tongue, cheeks, and lips are all prime candidates for such injuries. Apart from the inevitable pain, the injuries increase your risk of oral infections.
Teeth Injuries
Braces, especially their metallic parts, can also damage your teeth. For example, broken ends of orthodontic wires can scratch your enamel. Enamel wear exposes the dentin (inner part of the teeth) and increases the risk of bacteria attack, hypersensitivity, and teeth discoloration, among other problems.
Preventive Measures
Orthodontists use different types of braces to correct orthodontic problems. Some of these braces are less likely to suffer damage during contact sports than others are. For example:
Choose the Right Braces
Dentists use different types of braces to correct orthodontic problems. Some of these braces are less likely to suffer damage during contact sports than others are. For example:
- Clear aligners do not have wires, so using them reduces the risk of wire-related injuries.
- Lingual braces sit behind the teeth rather than in front, so the risk of something hitting them is low.
Talk to your orthodontist about your sporting engagements, and they will help you choose the most suitable orthodontic treatment. Note that other factors, such as the extent of your orthodontic problem and desired duration of treatment, also determine the braces you can get.
Wear a Mouth Guard
Another great tip is to wear a mouth guard whenever you are playing. Generic mouth guards can work if you are an occasional player or don’t engage in high-risk (contact) sports. Otherwise, you need a customized orthodontic mouth guard for maximum protection. Orthodontic mouth guards provide a high degree of protection and have excellent fit and comfort.
Get Immediate Care in Case of Injury
The last tip is to get dental care as soon as possible if something does hit your mouth or braces. In addition, don’t assume that everything is okay just because you are not in pain or cannot see damage to your braces. Even a small change in the way your braces fit can interfere with your treatment.
Rosen Orthodontics has been practicing orthodontic treatment for years. Contact us for all your orthodontic needs! We will also help you protect your braces so that you can continue to enjoy your sporting activities.
