At McDonough Orthodontics, we know that living an active lifestyle does not stop when you get braces. Whether you are spiking volleyballs, swinging bats, or sprinting across the soccer field, playing sports with braces is absolutely possible with a few smart strategies. Protecting your smile means staying game-ready while keeping your orthodontic treatment on track.
Why Protection Matters When You Are Playing Sports with Braces
Spring and summer bring action-packed sports, but they also come with the risk of physical contact, falls, and high-speed equipment. For athletes with braces, even a minor impact to the face can lead to discomfort, damaged brackets, or delays in treatment. That is why playing sports with braces requires thoughtful preparation and protective equipment. You should always wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
Spring Sports for Braces (and the Gear You Will Need)
Here is a closer look at popular sports and why they call for a mouthguard for extra protection when wearing braces:
- Soccer: A fast-paced game filled with footwork, headers, and occasional unintentional collisions. Elbows, shoulders, and even balls flying through the air can unexpectedly strike the face. A mouthguard helps absorb shock and protect both braces and teeth.
- Lacrosse: With sticks swinging and constant physical play, lacrosse is one of the higher-risk sports for facial injuries. Players should always wear an orthodontic mouthguard.
- Baseball and Softball: Whether you are up to bat, catching pop flies, or fielding a hard grounder, these sports involve high-speed balls and quick reactions. A single bad hop can cause damage if your mouth is unprotected.
- Tennis: Though it is often viewed as a non-contact sport, a powerful serve or an awkward return can cause a ball to ricochet toward the face. Doubles matches also increase the risk of accidental contact with a teammate’s racket or arm.
- Pickleball: One of the fastest-growing sports among kids and teens, pickleball blends the quick reflexes of ping-pong with the court dynamics of tennis. Fast volleys and close-range play can lead to unexpected face contact with the ball or paddle, making a mouthguard a smart choice for players with braces.
- Track and Field Events: While many events have minimal contact, trips, falls, or awkward landings—especially in hurdles, high jump, and pole vault—can put your mouth at risk. A mouthguard provides a buffer that could prevent serious injury.
- Volleyball: Dives, blocks, and close-quarter play can lead to sudden hits from teammates’ arms, elbows, or even the ball itself. Indoor or beach, the quick reactions and dynamic movements make protection important.
- Basketball: Intense games often lead to accidental contact under the basket. An orthodontic mouthguard is essential to protect your smile when the game gets physical.
No matter which sport you play, wearing the right protective gear can make all the difference. For athletes wearing braces, an orthodontic mouthguard is not just helpful—it is essential.
Smart Habits for Sports with Braces
In addition to wearing a mouthguard and any other correct gear, good habits go a long way toward protecting your orthodontic investment. Here are several strategies to keep your smile safe throughout the season:
- Hydrate Frequently: Drinking water regularly helps prevent dry lips from sticking to brackets and causing irritation. It also keeps your mouth clean and reduces the risk of cavities, unlike sugary sports drinks that can damage enamel and lead to decay around brackets.
- Use Orthodontic Wax: Orthodontic wax can provide instant relief if a bracket or wire becomes irritating during play. Keep a small container in your sports bag for quick fixes.
- Pack a Braces First-Aid Kit: Every athlete should carry a basic kit that includes:
- Orthodontic wax
- A small mirror for inspection
- Dental floss and threaders
- Travel-size mouthwash or saline rinse
- A small container to hold a broken bracket or wire
- The phone number for McDonough Orthodontics
- Inspect Your Braces After Every Game: Take a few moments after practice or competition to check your brackets and wires. If you notice anything loose, bent, or out of place, contact our office as soon as possible to prevent further issues.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Snacks Post-Game: Rewarding yourself with popcorn, taffy, or ice can be tempting, but these snacks are hard on braces. Opt for braces-friendly options like yogurt, smoothies, or soft fruits.
- Keep Your Appointments: Even during a busy sports season, do not skip your orthodontic visits. Regular checkups allow us to catch any problems early and keep your treatment on schedule.
These daily habits will make playing sports with braces a safe and successful experience.
Took a Tumble? Here Is What to Do
If you experience a hit or fall during play—even if it seems minor—it is best to schedule a quick check-in with our team. Sometimes, damage to your braces is not immediately obvious but can still affect your progress. Prompt action helps ensure that your orthodontic journey stays right on track. When playing sports with braces, do not wait for a problem to worsen—let us know immediately so we can help.
Win on the Field and at the Orthodontist
At McDonough Orthodontics, we believe that every athlete should feel confident and ready to play, no matter where they are in their orthodontic journey. With the right equipment, smart habits, and a little planning, playing sports with braces is safe and part of a winning strategy for a healthier smile. Our Murray, UT team is here to support your goals on and off the field.
Need help finding the right mouthguard or checking your braces before a big game? Contact McDonough Orthodontics today and get game-ready with a smile built to last.
McDonough Orthodontics
6070 S. 1300 E., Suite 202
Murray, UT 84121