Common Concerns and Solutions for Partial Denture Wearers

Have you ever wondered how teenagers participate in physical workouts and contact sports without damaging their teeth or breaking metal brackets and wires? If you observe closely, you’ll notice that many teenagers wear braces. Protecting these braces during physical activity might seem challenging, but having braces doesn’t mean one has to remain inactive.

Many athletes adhere to guidelines provided by their orthodontists. Those with braces who are concerned about potential injuries during physical activities take additional precautions to protect both their teeth and braces. In this blog, we’ll discuss the relationship between braces and sports and the necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Always Wear An Orthodontic Mouthguard

Every athlete, regardless of whether they’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, should wear a mouthguard during practices and competitive games. This is especially crucial for those with braces, as a single accident can set back the treatment process by weeks or even months. 

Using a mouthguard can prevent damage to orthodontic equipment, such as braces. Orthodontic mouthguards are specifically designed to fit comfortably over braces, offering an added layer of protection for the athlete’s gums, teeth, and lips.

Avoid Certain Snacks And Sports Drinks

In addition to potential injuries, athletes with braces should be mindful of their diet during training and games. Sports gels, energy drinks, and bars often contain high levels of sugars and acids. These can lead to white marks around the brackets of braces wearers. 

Some sports snacks, like sticky bars, can get trapped in braces, causing discomfort. Acidic gels and drinks can also stain aligner trays. It’s essential to choose foods and drinks that offer nutritional benefits without jeopardizing oral health.

Stay Mindful About Braces

While a mouthguard can significantly reduce potential damage from sports injuries, the best way to prevent issues is to avoid accidents altogether. Parents should remind their children about the importance of caution, emphasizing that accidents can hinder their treatment progress. 

Due to the adrenaline rush during sports, many athletes forget they’re wearing braces, leading to potential carelessness.

Act Quickly In Case Of An Accident

Accidents are unpredictable. If an athlete with braces experiences an impact on the mouth, it’s essential to check the braces for damage. If a wire breaks or a bracket becomes loose, they should inform their parents or coach immediately. Scheduling a dentist appointment as soon as possible can mitigate further complications.

Final Overview

Parents might be hesitant about letting their children play sports while wearing braces. However, with the right precautions, there’s no need to halt athletic activities. By ensuring safety measures are in place and responding promptly to emergencies, parents can help their children balance sports and orthodontic treatment. 

Always inform the coach about the child’s orthodontic situation and ensure they wear a mouthguard during games. A little effort can ensure a child’s athletic aspirations aren’t compromised.