Will Metal Braces Stop Me From Playing Sports?
Will Metal Braces Stop Me From Playing Sports?
Aren't sure if you'll be able to continue playing contact sports during orthodontic treatment? If so, it's important that you bring up your concerns during your next appointment with our dentist in Grand Rapids, MI. In general, for cases like yours, Dr. Nichols will recommend a custom sports mouth guard to protect your smile during every game and practice.
Here's what you need to know.
Continue Playing the Sports You Love
Do you play a contact sport, such as hockey or football? If so, it's important that you ask our dentist about your options for a sports mouth guard. An orthodontic mouth guard is a little bit bigger than your typical mouth guard to allow room for your metal braces. It also gives your smile and dental braces the ultimate protection in the event you get hit in the face.
Learn More: Can Exercise Damage Your Teeth? ?
Wear a Mouth Guard for Braces
A conventional sports mouth guard is made out of hard plastic. While this would normally protect your smile, it can actually do more harm than good if you have traditional metal braces.
It's also important to keep in mind that your teeth will continue to move during orthodontic treatment, which means you'll need a mouth guard that offers a custom fit every time you step out onto the field or court.
Always wear your orthodontic mouth guard when playing sports, regardless of whether it's a practice or the Friday night football game. Any time there is a risk of sports dental injury, you should be wearing your mouth guard.
Prevent Injuries to Your Smile
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, about 40% of pediatric dental injuries are caused by sports. Since the likelihood of injury is so high, a mouth guard is a smart investment for your child. Not only will it help protect their smile, but it'll also save you money and the trauma and stress of rushing your child to get urgent care. Since the risk of dental injury is high for athletes of all ages, we also recommend that adults wear their orthodontic mouth guards.
Wearing the right type of sports mouth guard is important during orthodontic treatment. If you wish to play a contact sport, our dentist will create a sports mouth guard that's designed to fit over your teeth and braces. This will significantly reduce your risk of serious dental injury.
Also, keep in mind that your metal wires and braces could snag on an oral appliance that's not designed to accommodate them. The result can be a damaged smile and broken orthodontic metal braces that set back your treatment.
Call Nichols Family Dentistry
Our dentist in Grand Rapids, MI, is ready to guide you through every step of your orthodontic treatment. Whether you're interested in metal braces or clear aligners, we're ready to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. To schedule an appointment, please call Nichols Family Dentistry at (616) 333-8496. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.