As the spring season ushers in warmer weather, our community in Long Beach, CA, eagerly anticipates the return of spring sports. From soccer or baseball, to surfing the waves the thrill of sports is in the air. However, for those with orthodontic appliances, such as braces or aligners, it's crucial to take steps to protect our orthodontic investments while participating in these activities. This blog will guide you on how to safely navigate the spring sports season with orthodontics, ensuring your smile remains intact and your treatment on track.
The Risks Associated with Spring Sports
Participating in spring sports like surfing, water polo, volleyball, and skateboarding brings a sense of excitement and achievement. However, these activities also come with their set of risks, especially for athletes with orthodontic appliances. A sudden fall off of a skateboard, a ball to the face, or an unexpected wipeout while surfing can lead to dental injuries such as broken brackets, damaged aligners, or even direct injury to the teeth and gums. It's vital to be aware of these risks and take proactive measures to mitigate them.
Protective Gear: A Must for Athletes with Orthodontics
The key to safeguarding your orthodontic appliances and your oral health during sports activities is the use of protective gear. Among these, mouthguards stand out as essential for anyone with braces or aligners:
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Stock Mouthguards:
Readily available and affordable, but often lack a snug fit.
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Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards:
Offer a better fit after being softened in boiling water and molded to the teeth. However, they might not provide full protection for orthodontic appliances.
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Custom-Fitted Mouthguards:
Recommended for athletes with orthodontics. These are designed to fit perfectly over braces or aligners, providing maximum protection without compromising comfort.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards at Orthodontics of Long Beach
Participating in any sport, especially contact sports or activities with a high risk of impact like surfing, water polo, or skateboarding in Long Beach, demands not just skill and enthusiasm but also a commitment to safety. For athletes with orthodontic appliances, this commitment includes the use of custom-fitted mouthguards, an essential piece of protective gear offered at Orthodontics of Long Beach.
Why Choose Custom-Fitted Mouthguards?
Custom-fitted mouthguards are superior to off-the-shelf options for several reasons:
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Precision Fit:
Utilizing an impression of your teeth, custom-fitted mouthguards are tailored to match the unique contours of your mouth. This precision ensures a snug fit that won't dislodge during play, providing consistent protection.
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Orthodontic Appliance Compatibility:
Unlike generic mouthguards, custom options are designed with your braces or aligners in mind. They accommodate the brackets and wires, preventing them from causing injury during impact and protecting the orthodontic work already in progress.
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Optimal Comfort and Breathability:
The exact fit minimizes discomfort and interference with breathing or speaking, allowing athletes to concentrate fully on their performance without being distracted by an ill-fitting mouthguard.
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Enhanced Protection:
Custom mouthguards distribute the force of impacts more evenly, reducing the risk of dental injuries. They are made from durable materials that offer superior protection against shocks and blows that are common in sports.
Maintaining Orthodontic Health During Sports Season
To keep your orthodontic treatment on track throughout the sports season, consider the following tips:
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Schedule Regular Checkups:
Regular visits to Orthodontics of Long Beach can help ensure your treatment progresses as planned and allows for adjustments to your mouthguard if needed.
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Immediate Action on Injuries:
If you experience an orthodontic injury while playing sports, it's crucial to contact us immediately. Prompt care can prevent further damage and keep your treatment on course.
Detailed Guidance on Handling Orthodontic Injuries During Sports
Injuries can happen in the blink of an eye, especially during the intense activity of spring sports. Knowing how to respond in the event of an orthodontic injury can make a significant difference in the outcome of your treatment. At Orthodontics of Long Beach, we prioritize your health and safety and offer the following detailed guidance on what to do if you or your child experiences an orthodontic injury while participating in sports:
Immediate Steps After an Injury
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Remove and Assess Mouthguard:
Carefully remove your mouthguard. If it’s damaged, it will need to be replaced. Even if undamaged, cleaning it before next use is essential.
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Gentle Rinsing:
Rinse your mouth thoroughly with lukewarm water to clean the area and remove any debris that might have entered your mouth during the injury.
For Braces Wearers:
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Apply Orthodontic Wax:
If a bracket breaks or a wire becomes loose and causes discomfort, apply orthodontic wax to the problematic area. This will serve as a temporary barrier between the braces and the soft tissues of your mouth, reducing irritation.
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Check for Loose Components:
Gently assess if any parts of your braces are significantly damaged or if any pieces are at risk of becoming detached. Avoid trying to remove any parts on your own.
For Aligner Users:
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Inspect Aligners for Damage:
Carefully examine your aligners for any cracks, tears, or warping. Damaged aligners may not perform correctly and could potentially harm your treatment progress.
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Temporary Removal:
If the aligner is damaged or if wearing it causes discomfort post-injury, remove it and store it safely in its case until you can get professional advice.
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Manage Pain and Swelling:
If you experience pain or swelling, applying a cold compress to the outside of your mouth can provide temporary relief. Avoid placing ice directly on any sore or injured areas inside your mouth.
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Diet Adjustments:
Opt for soft foods that require minimal chewing to prevent further irritation or damage to your orthodontic appliance and injured oral tissues.
Seeking Professional Care
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Contact Orthodontics of Long Beach:
Reach out to us as soon as possible to describe the incident and the nature of the injury. We can provide specific advice over the phone and determine if an emergency appointment is necessary.
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Emergency Appointment:
During your visit, we'll conduct a comprehensive examination to assess the extent of the injury and any impact on your orthodontic treatment. We'll then make any necessary adjustments or repairs to your braces or aligners and provide guidance on any additional care or treatment needed to ensure your orthodontic journey stays on track.
Prevention and Preparation
While immediate action can help manage orthodontic injuries, prevention remains key. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard, understanding the risks associated with your chosen sport, and having a plan in place in case of an emergency are essential steps in protecting your smile.
At Orthodontics of Long Beach, your safety during sports and your orthodontic health are our priorities. Remember, we're here to support you through every phase of your treatment, including those unexpected moments. Don't hesitate to reach out with any concerns or to schedule an appointment for a custom-fitted mouthguard tailored to your active lifestyle.
Keeping Your Smile Safe On and Off the Field
Engaging in spring sports in Long Beach, CA, like surfing and water polo, should be a fun and enriching experience, even for those of us with orthodontic appliances. By taking preventive measures such as wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard and maintaining regular orthodontic checkups at Orthodontics of Long Beach, you can enjoy the sports season to its fullest while keeping your smile safe.
Ready to protect your orthodontic investment this spring? Orthodontics of Long Beach to schedule a consultation for your custom-fitted mouthguard or for any orthodontic care you might need.
