Yes, you can absolutely play sports with metal braces, and you should! Whether you’re a student athlete or someone just starting orthodontic treatment later in life, our Grand Rapids, MI, orthodontists want you to know that wearing traditional metal braces doesn’t mean sitting on the sidelines. It just means being smart about protection.
With the right precautions, can go hand in hand. The key?
Wear a properly fitted mouth guard for dental braces, pack some just-in-case orthodontic wax in your bag, and stay on top of your oral hygiene.
Here’s what else you need to know about .
Forget the Misconceptions & Go Play
The idea that braces and sports don’t mix is outdated. People of all ages are getting dental braces put on and staying active in everything from soccer to jiu-jitsu. You don’t have to give up your athletic life just because you’re straightening your teeth.
The catch is that metal braces do introduce more risk for mouth injuries during contact sports. An accidental elbow to the face or a fall on the field can turn into a painful situation if you're not prepared. That’s why wearing a custom mouth guard for braces is a must, not just for those with metal in their smile, but for all athletes. It protects your teeth, brackets, lips, and cheeks from potential damage.
Why Mouth Guards for Braces Matters
A boil-and-bite mouth guard from a sporting goods store isn’t going to cut it if you have metal in your mouth. Generic guards often don’t fit well over traditional metal braces, which can lead to discomfort or improper protection. Knowing when to see an orthodontist for extra cushioning is key. Our local orthodontists can create a personalized mouth guard for you that is designed to fit securely over your brackets and wires without shifting during play.
Benefits of a custom-fit mouth guard include:
- Better shock absorption during impact
- Room to accommodate shifting teeth
- Protection for both upper and lower arches
- Less chance of braces-related injuries like lip lacerations or broken brackets
How Do I Prepare for Sports With Braces?
When you have metal braces and you are engaged in a sport, you’ve got to stay ready for the unexpected. Brackets can break, wires can poke, and lips can get cut. Keeping a small kit in your gym bag can help you stay ahead of discomfort and potential injury.
What to pack:
- Orthodontic wax (for sharp edges or loose brackets)
- Extra rubber bands (if prescribed)
- A travel toothbrush and floss pick
- Your mouth guard and its protective case
If something does go wrong, knowing how to care for metal braces on the fly makes a big difference. Applying wax to a broken bracket or using salt water rinses for a sore spot can help until you get to our orthodontists.
Metal Braces vs. Clear Aligners for Athletes
It’s normal for athletes to consider the eternal metal braces vs. clear aligners debate before starting treatment. Invisalign®, for example, doesn't involve brackets or wires, making clear aligners more comfortable during physical activity. However, aligners need to be removed during high contact sports, and forgetting to wear them afterward can delay treatment.
Related Post → What Happens If You Skip Wearing Clear Aligners?
Traditional metal braces stay on 24/7, which can be more convenient and less hassle when balancing practices, games, and recovery. As long as you wear a mouth guard, braces are just as sports-friendly.
Playing Sports Into Adulthood
Getting braces as an adult is more common than ever. If you're worried about how they’ll affect your athletic lifestyle, don’t be. Plenty of adult athletes, from runners to grapplers, start orthodontic treatment and keep pushing their limits.
The biggest difference for adults is being more proactive about care. Adults heal a bit slower and tend to have more dental history to consider. That makes proper hygiene, regular adjustments, and wearing protective gear even more important. Still, the same rules apply: protect your mouth, stay consistent with care, and see our orthodontists regularly.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Being active with metal braces comes down to protection and preparation. Our orthodontists in Grand Rapids, MI, don’t want you to sacrifice your passion for the game just because you’re fixing your smile. Call Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics today at (616) 455-4800 or contact us online to schedule an appointment and we can discuss how your dental needs and sports commitments intersect.