Braces and Sports Season: How to Protect Your Smile

As spring sports season kicks off, athletes of all ages gear up for practices, games, and outdoor training. Whether you’re playing soccer, baseball, softball, or participating in track and field, staying active is great for your health—but if you're wearing braces, it's also a time to be extra cautious. Physical contact, fast-moving balls, and even accidental falls can pose risks to your orthodontic appliance—and your teeth.

At Orthodontics of Long Beach, we understand the excitement of spring athletics and the importance of continuing orthodontic care throughout the season. With a few protective strategies and smart habits, you can stay on the field while safeguarding your smile.

Why Braces Wearers Need Extra Protection During Sports

Braces are designed to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment—but they also add extra surfaces and edges inside your mouth. During sports, a sudden impact can cause wires and brackets to press or cut into your cheeks and lips, leading to pain, bleeding, or even broken hardware.

Common risks during sports with braces include:

• Cuts or abrasions to the inner cheeks or lips
• Dislodged brackets or bent wires
• Damaged teeth due to lack of proper protection
• Extended treatment time due to appliance damage

The good news? Most of these injuries are preventable with the right gear and preparation.

The Importance of a Mouthguard

The most effective way to protect your braces—and your teeth—is by wearing a mouthguard. Not all mouthguards are created equal, and when you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s important to choose one that fits comfortably and accommodates your braces.

Types of Mouthguards:

• Stock Mouthguards (Pre-Formed)
• Inexpensive and ready to wear
• Least comfortable and secure
• Often too tight for braces, leading to risk of damage
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
• Can be molded to your teeth after heating in water
• More customizable than stock versions
• May not fit properly over braces as teeth shift
• Orthodontic Mouthguards (Recommended)
• Specifically designed for braces
• Made from medical-grade silicone or flexible plastic
• Allow for room as teeth move and brackets shift
• Offer superior protection and comfort

Pro Tip: If you play a contact sport, talk to your orthodontist about a custom-fit mouthguard for optimal protection.

Which Sports Require a Mouthguard?

Any sport that involves physical contact or the risk of falling should be played with a mouthguard. Even non-contact sports can pose a risk if you're moving quickly or using sports equipment.

Sports where a mouthguard is especially important:

• Football
• Soccer
• Basketball
• Baseball and softball
• Hockey (ice and field)
• Wrestling
• Skateboarding
• Martial arts
• Gymnastics

Even runners and track athletes can benefit from the added protection, especially if there’s a chance of tripping or collisions.

How to Care for Your Mouthguard

Mouthguards work best when they’re clean, in good condition, and stored properly. Just like your braces, they require daily maintenance to remain effective and hygienic.

Mouthguard care tips:

• Rinse your mouthguard with cool water before and after each use.
• Clean it regularly with mild soap and a toothbrush, or use special mouthguard cleaning tablets.
• Never leave your mouthguard in a hot car—heat can cause it to warp.
• Store it in a ventilated case to allow it to dry completely.
• Replace your mouthguard if it becomes worn, cracked, or doesn’t fit properly anymore.

What to Do If You Experience a Sports-Related Orthodontic Emergency

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. If you suffer an injury to your mouth while wearing braces, it’s important to act quickly.

Steps to take in the event of an orthodontic injury:

• Assess the Damage
• Check for loose brackets, bent wires, or broken appliances.
• Look for signs of swelling, bleeding, or cuts inside your mouth.
• Contact Your Orthodontist
• Call our office as soon as possible.
• We’ll advise you on what to do next and schedule a repair visit if needed.
• Manage Pain or Swelling
• Rinse with warm salt water to soothe sore areas.
• Apply orthodontic wax to any sharp brackets or wires.
• Use ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

Don’t try to adjust your braces yourself. DIY fixes can lead to further damage or delay your treatment progress.

Spring Sports Nutrition Tips for Braces Wearers

Staying active requires energy—and the right foods will fuel your performance while keeping your braces safe.

Braces-friendly snacks for athletes:

• Soft fruits like bananas, melon, or applesauce
• String cheese or soft cheese cubes
• Yogurt or smoothies
• Nut butter on soft bread or pita
• Cooked pasta or rice-based dishes for pre-game meals

Foods to avoid:

• Hard granola bars or trail mix
• Crunchy chips or popcorn
• Sticky protein bars or candies
• Ice (chewing it can damage braces)

Always bring a water bottle and a braces-safe snack for energy before or after practice.

Smart Habits for Athletes with Braces

Orthodontic care during sports season doesn’t stop at mouthguards and food choices. Stay on track by combining sports success with oral hygiene success.

Tips for a healthy mouth during spring athletics:

• Brush and floss after games and practice, especially if you’ve eaten.
• Keep a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste in your gym bag.
• Use a fluoride rinse to help strengthen enamel.
• Let your coach and teammates know about your braces so they can help you avoid unnecessary risks.

Win on the Field and in Your Smile

Participating in sports during orthodontic treatment is not only possible—it’s encouraged! Physical activity is great for your health and well-being. With the right mouthguard, a braces-friendly diet, and good hygiene, you can protect your smile while giving your all on the field or court.

Spring is the perfect season to stay active and stay motivated. Just remember to prioritize your braces care so your treatment stays on schedule and your smile stays safe.

Play Hard, Smile Strong

Sports and braces can absolutely go hand-in-hand—as long as you’re prepared. By wearing the right mouthguard, avoiding injury-prone foods, and sticking to your oral care routine, you’ll stay on track with your treatment and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Your braces are working hard behind the scenes, and with the right protection, you can confidently enjoy the season.

At Orthodontics of Long Beach, we’re here to help you make the most of every season—braces and all. If you need a custom orthodontic mouthguard, have questions about sports safety, or need to schedule a checkup, give us a call today. Let’s keep your smile strong and ready for action this spring!