Whether you enjoy playing a casual game of ultimate frisbee with your friends during the summer or are part of a professional team year-round, sports are a great way to stay in shape and build a community. Fortunately, undergoing orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to get in the way! If you are interested in straightening your teeth but would like to do a bit more research before scheduling your appointment, keep reading for the answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about sports and braces.
Can I Still Play Sports If I Get Braces?
Absolutely! In fact, thanks to Invisalign’s removable aligners, you can store your braces in a protective case while you play. Just make sure to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day to stay on track with your treatment plan. If you need traditional orthodontics to achieve your smile goals, don’t fret. Although the metal brackets and wires require some additional care, they won’t prevent you from participating in your sport of choice.
How Can I Keep My Teeth Safe?
The last thing you want is for a smile-related injury, like a knocked-out tooth, to derail your treatment timeline. The good news is that there are a few preventive measures you can take to protect your teeth. To start, always wear a mouth guard (even during non-contact sports). This simple, but powerful, appliance can prevent broken brackets, soft tissue injuries, and other unpleasant dental emergencies. Next, make sure to prioritize your at-home oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy. A few good practices include brushing at least twice a day, avoiding sugary sports drinks, and visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
I Broke My Braces – What Should I Do Now?
If your braces break, do your best not to panic. Instead, follow the below steps:
- Assess the damage. Potentially life-threatening conditions, like difficulty breathing or a broken jaw, require a visit to your local ER.
- Call your dental team and schedule a same-day appointment.
- Gather any broken pieces.
- Rinse with a mixture of salt and warm water.
- Place a cold compress against the outside of your cheek.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication.
If you are having difficulty smiling confidently due to crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth, don’t let sports stand in your way. After all, with the right preventive measures in place, you won’t even notice they are there!
About the Practice
With a team of talented doctors, the latest dental technology, and a genuine focus on patient-centered care, it’s not hard to see why so many of our patients have visited Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence since their very first checkup! We are proud to provide a comprehensive array of services, including orthodontic treatment, so every person that walks through our doors can achieve the happy, healthy, beautiful smiles they deserve. If you are interested in learning more about braces, don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call at 847-259-1111.