Winter in Utah is all about adventure — powdery snow, mountain slopes, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you’re skiing at Brighton, snowboarding at Solitude, or playing basketball in your school gym, winter brings excitement and energy to the season. But if you’re wearing braces, it’s also important to remember that your smile needs protection. A small accident can lead to discomfort, damaged brackets, or even an orthodontic setback.
At McDonough Orthodontics, we want you to enjoy every moment of the season while keeping your orthodontic treatment on track. Here’s how to stay safe, active, and confident — both on and off the slopes.
Mouthguards and Winter Sports
When you’re wearing braces, your teeth and gums are more vulnerable to injury. Braces have brackets and wires that can cut your lips or cheeks if you take a fall or get hit by a ball. Even light contact can cause damage if you’re unprotected.
A mouthguard acts like a cushion, protecting your mouth from sudden impacts. It not only shields your braces but also helps prevent soft tissue injuries and potential damage to your teeth. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, wrestling, or shooting hoops, a mouthguard should be as essential as your helmet or goggles.
The Right Type of Mouthguard
Not all mouthguards are created equal — especially when braces are involved.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards found in stores can press too tightly against brackets, leading to irritation or even bending wires.
- Orthodontic mouthguards are made with braces in mind, leaving room for movement as your teeth shift during treatment.
- Custom mouthguards — available through our office — offer the best fit and protection. They are molded specifically for your smile and adjusted as your teeth move.
If your child plays a winter sport, we can help you choose the best mouthguard for comfort, safety, and performance.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Winter Activities
Utah families enjoy both outdoor and indoor sports this time of year. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are popular choices, but so are indoor basketball and wrestling.
Even though basketball and wrestling are played indoors, they are contact sports — which means collisions, elbows, and accidental falls are common. Protecting your smile is just as important indoors as it is on the slopes.
What to Do If You Damage Your Braces
Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you fall or take a hit and feel that something isn’t right, follow these steps:
- Check for loose brackets, broken wires, or discomfort.
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that may irritate your lips or gums.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to soothe irritation.
- Call McDonough Orthodontics as soon as possible. The sooner we assess the issue, the easier it is to fix.
Never try to repair braces on your own — that can lead to more damage or delay your treatment.
A Thanksgiving Reminder
Thanksgiving in Utah means family gatherings, cozy evenings, and lots of great food. Just remember — sticky sweets and crunchy foods, like caramel or nuts, can be tough on braces. Enjoy your meal but reach for braces-friendly dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and soft pies instead.
As we celebrate this season of gratitude, our entire team at McDonough Orthodontics wants to thank our patients for trusting us with their smiles. We’re grateful to be part of your journey — and proud to help our community keep smiling all year long.
Protect your smile this winter! Call McDonough Orthodontics in Murray, UT, to learn about custom mouthguards for braces and play safely all season long.
6070 S. 1300 E., Suite 202
Murray, UT 84121