Sports Safety: Essential Mouthguard Guide for Kids with Braces

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Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ

Whether your child plays recreational or competitive sports, protecting their smile and orthodontic investment should be a top priority. Sports activities bring an increased risk of dental injuries that can damage teeth, braces, and surrounding oral tissues. The good news? Most sports-related dental injuries are completely preventable with the right protection.

If your child wears braces or other orthodontic appliances, taking special precautions becomes even more critical. A properly fitted mouthguard is essential protective equipment - just like a helmet for cycling or pads for hockey.

Sports That Require Mouthguard Protection

Contact and collision sports pose the highest risk for dental injuries. These include football, hockey, basketball, wrestling, and martial arts. However, even non-contact sports can result in unexpected facial injuries from falls, collisions with equipment, or contact with other players.

Sports where mouthguards are recommended include:

• Baseball and softball
• Soccer and lacrosse
• Basketball and volleyball
• Gymnastics and skateboarding
• Cycling and rollerblading

Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Braces

Not all mouthguards are suitable for orthodontic patients. Standard boil-and-bite mouthguards that mold to your teeth should be avoided during orthodontic treatment. These custom-forming guards can interfere with tooth movement and potentially damage brackets or wires.

The best options for kids with braces include:

• Over-the-counter orthodontic mouthguards - Specifically designed with extra space for braces
• Professional custom guards - Made by your orthodontist to accommodate your specific appliances
• Silicone lip guards - Provide additional protection for the lips and cheeks against brackets

What to Do After a Sports Injury

Even with proper protection, accidents can happen. If your child experiences any facial trauma during sports, immediately check the mouth and orthodontic appliances. Look for:

• Loose, chipped, or knocked-out teeth
• Damaged brackets, wires, or other appliances
• Cuts or swelling in the mouth, lips, or cheeks
• Changes in how the teeth fit together

If you notice any damage or if your child experiences significant pain, contact our office immediately. Quick action can often prevent more serious complications and keep treatment on track.

Additional Protection Tips

Beyond mouthguards, consider these extra safety measures:

• Use proper headgear and protective equipment for specific sports
• Ensure playing areas are safe and well-maintained
• Follow all safety rules and proper techniques
• Stay hydrated and take breaks to prevent fatigue-related accidents

Remember: sports participation shouldn't stop because of braces! With proper protection and precautions, your child can safely enjoy all their favorite activities while achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.

Have questions about protecting your child's braces during sports? Contact our team - we're here to help keep your smile safe!