Playing sports offers fantastic opportunities for fitness and camaraderie. Whether you are playing casually with friends or competing on a school team or professionally, sports are a key part of many people’s lives. Luckily, having braces shouldn’t hinder your athletic pursuits! If you’re considering orthodontic treatment but want more information before making an appointment, read on for answers to common questions from your orthodontist about playing sports while wearing braces.
Can I Still Play Sports If I Get Braces?
Certainly! With Invisalign’s removable aligners, you can safely store your braces in a protective case while engaging in sports. Just remember to wear them for 20-22 hours daily to maintain your treatment progress. If you opt for traditional orthodontics, like metal brackets and wires, you can still participate in your favorite sports with a bit of extra care.
How Can I Keep My Teeth Safe?
Avoiding smile-related injuries, such as a knocked-out tooth, is crucial to keeping your treatment plan on track. Luckily, there are preventive steps you can take to safeguard your teeth.
Firstly, wear a mouth guard at all times, even during non-contact sports, to prevent broken brackets and other dental emergencies. Additionally, maintain a thorough at-home oral hygiene routine by brushing at least twice daily, steering clear of sugary sports drinks, and attending regular dental checkups every six months for cleanings and examinations.
I Broke My Braces – What Should I Do Now?
If your braces happen to break, try to stay calm and follow these steps:
- Assess the damage: Serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing or a broken jaw, will warrant a prompt trip to the nearest emergency room.
- Call your dental team: They will be able to help you schedule a same-day appointment.
- Gather any broken pieces: Bring them with you to your appointment.
- Rinse your mouth out: Do so with a mixture of salt and warm water to disinfect the area.
- Use a cold compress: Place it against the outside of your cheek o numb any pain you’re feeling.
- Take pain medication: Over-the-counter pain medicinecan help keep you comfortable until your dentist can see you.
If you’re feeling self-conscious about your smile because of crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth, don’t worry—you can still participate in sports while wearing braces. With proper preventive measures, you’ll hardly even notice that they’re there!
About the Practice
If you’re seeking orthodontic solutions to enhance your smile in Palm Harbor, the skilled and welcoming team at Dr. Alex Johnson Orthodontics is here to assist you. Offering a variety of comprehensive treatments, including restorative, preventive, and cosmetic procedures, their goal is to improve both oral health and aesthetics. If you’re interested in playing sports while wearing braces, they can help align your smile with affordable treatment options. To schedule an appointment or learn more about braces, contact Dr. Alex Johnson Orthodontics at (727) 786-7550 or visit their website.