Sports and braces don’t sound like a good mix. But, in reality, all sports are more or less OK for braces. Just ask any of the many athletes who have participated in sporting events wearing braces throughout their careers.
With awareness and protective strategies, you can minimize the risk for your teeth and straighten treatment.
1. Invisalignment.
To start, we need to clear up the confusion between “braces” and “Invisalign.” Invisalign is NOT the same thing as braces. Invisalign is a variety of aligners that, while they look like traditional braces, are not made of metal and are not made to be fixed in place.
They are meant to be custom-made for each wearer by taking dental X-rays and placing them on a computer. Invisalign braces are the most convenient, discreet, subtle, and comfortable way to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing you are wearing them.
That is why they are particularly useful for sports where it is not desirable for anyone to know you have braces. They can also be used as an alternative to traditional braces where the treatment time would be faster and easier. You can visit the various orthodontist for the best price on Invisalign.
Benefits of Invisalign.
Modern dentistry has progressed in the last decade, and Invisalign is a great option for you considering orthodontic treatment. The fact that it is so inconspicuous makes it easy to wear during sports and maintain optimum oral hygiene.
Comfortable. After your first session, you will be able to eat, drink and talk with no sensitivity or pain in your teeth.
They are customized for you. Your aligners will be made based on your dental X-rays, so they will fit perfectly and move with you as your teeth move.
2. Using a Mouthguard
A mouthguard is another important preventive measure to consider when playing sports with braces. Braces can be placed on the teeth, developed with normal growth and development, like a normal smile. In the case of sports using an oral appliance, you will have to wear your braces fairly uncomfortable and possibly even painful. The teeth will feel sore towards the end of the day and possibly over time as well,
A mouthguard can help protect your teeth from being cracked and fractured by taking a hit during sports.
Pick the Right Type of Mouthguard.
The first detail to consider when choosing a mouthguard is its size. The standard adult size holds the mouthguard in place with an elastic band and properly fits the bite area of teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit. If you use braces to straighten your teeth, overall, this will depend on both the length of the brace wires and their position relative to each other in almost equal degrees.
The second detail is important because the mouthpiece must be comfortable and not cause gagging or choking, and it should seal properly. So, you will have to play sometime with it until the right fit.
When choosing a mouthguard, please pay attention to the quality of the material, shape, and color since they will affect its durability and performance.
How to Take Care of Mouthguard Properly
The mouthguard is an item that must be cleaned and stored properly to keep it in good shape and avoid contamination. It is important to clean the mouthguard after each use. The most practical and effective way to do this is by rinsing with hot water and a mild soap for about 3 minutes, leaving it in a baking soda solution for 15 minutes, and then rinsing again with plain water.
It is also very important to store your mouthpiece in a place that avoids direct sunlight and moisture, as well as any damage or distortion.
The main risks associated with sports and braces are the possibility of chipped or cracked teeth, as well as loose or broken brackets. In case your appliance is loosened by excessive play, you may want to take some time to adjust it before continuing. Without removing it, you can do this by consolidating the wires together more securely. Or you can remove it and fix it at home with pliers and the appropriate screws, then put it in place again.
If you consider wearing braces, be sure to take all the precautions necessary to protect your teeth from potential damage during sports. On the other hand, if you are already wearing them, the best thing to do is wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injuries.
