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For many people, braces or Invisalign aligners aren’t just about appearance—they’re an investment in long-term oral health. But if you’re active, sports can present unique challenges. From basketball and soccer to weekend pickup games, impacts and accidents can sometimes lead to orthodontic emergencies. A broken bracket, a poking wire, or a lost aligner can slow down your treatment and even cause discomfort. Fortunately, with some precautions and smart habits, you can stay active while keeping your smile safe.
Why Orthodontic Emergencies Happen During Sports
Orthodontic emergencies are surprisingly common, and sports are a frequent cause. High-impact collisions, accidental hits with balls, or even a fall can damage braces or misalign an aligner tray. Loose or broken brackets, shifting wires that poke your cheeks or gums, and dislodged aligners can all interrupt treatment. Even soft tissue injuries, while not always considered emergencies, can be made worse by braces. Understanding how these issues happen is the first step toward preventing them.
Protecting Your Smile With the Right Mouthguard
Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent orthodontic injuries. Over-the-counter guards can be bulky or move around, leaving teeth and braces vulnerable. Custom mouthguards, designed by your orthodontist, fit snugly, protect brackets and wires, and stay comfortable while you play. Whether you’re practicing, competing, or playing informally, a custom mouthguard can significantly reduce your risk of an emergency.
Smart Habits On and Off the Field
Not all sports-related injuries are unavoidable. Many occur because of behaviors that can be adjusted. For example, using your teeth as tools to open bottles or chewing on ice can damage brackets and wires. Failing to wear a mouthguard consistently or ignoring proper warm-ups increases the risk of accidents. Being mindful of these small details can prevent discomfort and costly repairs.
Communication also plays a big role. Coaches, teammates, and family members should know you’re wearing braces or aligners. Awareness reduces the chance of accidental collisions and ensures others respect the precautions needed to protect your smile.
Handling Minor Emergencies
Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. Knowing how to respond can reduce pain and prevent further damage. If a bracket becomes loose or a wire pokes, orthodontic wax can offer temporary relief until your next visit. If an aligner is lost or damaged, wearing the previous tray until you contact your orthodontist helps keep treatment on track. Keeping a small emergency kit with wax, a travel toothbrush, and a container for loose brackets can make these situations less stressful.
Adapting Your Sports Routine
Some high-contact or extreme sports naturally carry more risk. Activities like martial arts, hockey, or football may require temporary adjustments. Limiting full-contact drills until braces settle, using helmets or face shields, and being mindful of high-risk movements can protect your orthodontic appliances without giving up the sport entirely. These small changes can prevent emergencies while still letting you enjoy the activities you love.
Long-Term Benefits of Prevention
Being proactive about preventing orthodontic emergencies isn’t just about avoiding discomfort—it also helps your treatment progress smoothly. Broken brackets or lost aligners can delay results, sometimes extending treatment by weeks or months. By committing to safety, awareness, and proper care, you help ensure your braces or aligners work as efficiently as possible, giving you the smile you want without unnecessary setbacks.
Keep Your Smile Safe While Playing Sports – Contact Selden Orthodontics
At Selden Orthodontics, your trusted Orthodontist in Huntersville and Charlotte, NC, we help patients stay active without compromising their orthodontic treatment. From custom mouthguards to expert guidance on preventing emergencies, our team ensures your braces or aligners remain safe while you play. Don’t let sports put your smile at risk—contact our office today to schedule a consultation and protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances during every game.
