Fall means football under the Friday night lights, soccer tournaments on crisp Saturday mornings, and cheer squads getting the crowd on their feet. But for kids and teens wearing braces, fall sports also bring unique challenges. While dental braces are built to last through most daily activities, a high-energy contact sport or unexpected sports activity can increase the risk of dental injuries, whether from a stray elbow, a flying ball, or a hard fall.
We help many young athletes keep their orthodontic journey on track while enjoying their favorite sport. Here is what parents and players need to know about protecting braces this season so your child’s smile stays in the game.
Can Kids Play Sports with Braces? Absolutely.
The good news is that your young athlete does not have to sit out their favorite sport just because they are wearing braces. Whether they are on the football field, in the gym for volleyball practice, or on the soccer pitch, they can play safely with the right protective gear.
The key is preparation. That means understanding the risks, using a proper orthodontic mouthguard, and following a few dental care basics before and after every game.
Why Protection Matters in Fall Sports
A hit to the face can damage more than just teeth. It can also cause a broken bracket, bent wires, or painful injuries to your child’s mouth. Fall sports like football, soccer, and cheerleading often involve contact sports situations, making extra protection essential.
For braces patients, a damaged bracket or broken tooth can delay treatment and require an unplanned visit to the orthodontist. Taking steps toward sports safety now can save time, money, and unnecessary discomfort later in the season.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Braces
The most important piece of protective gear for kids with braces is a mouthguard. Not all mouthguards are the same, and braces patients need one that allows for tooth movement and orthodontic adjustments.
Custom orthodontic mouthguards, made by your orthodontist or pediatric dentistry office, fit over traditional braces and are designed to protect both brackets and teeth. They offer maximum comfort and durability during any sports activity.
Boil-and-bite orthodontic mouthguards available at sporting goods stores can work as a more affordable option, though they are not as precise as custom fitted mouthguards. A regular mouthguard that is not designed for orthodontic patients should be avoided, as it can get stuck on brackets and cause damage.
Braces Care Before and After Practice
Keeping braces in top shape during the fall sports season means paying attention before, during, and after game day. Encourage your child to check for loose brackets or wires before starting a physical activity. If a bracket becomes loose or a wire starts poking, orthodontic wax can offer temporary relief until the orthodontist can make repairs.
After playing sports, it is important to brush and rinse to remove any food particles or sports drink residue. This not only protects braces but also reduces the risk of tooth decay during orthodontic treatment.
Special Tips by Sport
In football, a custom mouthguard worn under the helmet is a must. Players should avoid chewing on the mouthguard during breaks, as this can affect its fit and effectiveness.
Soccer may seem like a lower-risk game day environment, but collisions, falls, and sports related injury are common. A properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard is just as important here as it is in other contact sports.
Cheerleading might not always be considered a contact sport, but competitive stunts and tumbling carry real risks. Wearing a mouth guard during these routines can prevent chipped or broken teeth and protect brackets from damage. Choosing water over sugary sports drinks during events also helps keep both braces and enamel in good shape.
Traveling for Fall Tournaments
Many young athletes participate in travel games or tournaments during the fall sports season. Packing a braces care kit can make all the difference. This kit should include orthodontic wax, a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, extra rubber bands if needed, and a small mirror for quick checks. Adding your orthodontist’s phone number is also a smart move in case of emergencies away from home.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
Even with careful planning, dental injuries can still happen. Call your orthodontist or pediatric dentist if your child experiences a broken bracket, a wire poking into the cheek or gum, a broken tooth, or if their custom mouthguard no longer fits properly.
Prompt orthodontic care will keep treatment on track and protect your child’s smile.
If you are unsure whether an issue needs immediate attention, it is always better to call. Even small problems, like a loose bracket or mild discomfort, can become bigger setbacks if left untreated. Your orthodontist can walk you through quick fixes at home and let you know if an in-office visit is necessary.
Why Local Care Matters
If you are looking for a pediatric dentistry provider or orthodontist in Plano for your young athlete, choosing a local office means faster access to emergency repairs and more personalized care. At Bean Orthodontics, we understand the busy schedules of braces patients who also participate in sports, and we work to keep their orthodontic journey moving forward without keeping them off the field.
FAQs
Can my child play sports with braces?
Yes. With the right orthodontic mouthguard and proper care, braces will not keep your child from enjoying their favorite sport.
What type of mouthguard is best for braces?
A custom mouthguard made for orthodontic patients offers the best fit and protection, especially for contact sports.
How can I prevent braces damage during the sports season?
Always wear a mouthguard during practices and games, check braces regularly for damage, and keep a travel kit handy in case of a sports related injury.
Protect Your Athlete’s Smile This Fall
Sports are an important part of childhood, teaching teamwork, discipline, and confidence. With the right orthodontic care and protective gear, your child can enjoy every moment of the season without putting their braces at risk.
Contact us today to learn more about mouthguards or to schedule a checkup before the next big game.
