What will braces be like? Will they get in the way? Can you play sports with braces? Many people’s top concern about braces is whether they can still do their favorite activities. Here’s the answer to your questions about sports and orthodontics.

What Will Braces Be Like?
Having braces can definitely feel like a big change, especially at the beginning, but it may not change as many things as you imagine. When you first have braces, your mouth will need a bit of time to adjust to the way that they feel, so you may not feel like being as active as you usually are or playing sports during the first couple of weeks after you get your new braces.

Thankfully, braces have advanced a lot in the last several years, so modern braces are much more comfortable than they used to be. You will get used to them before you know it so you may even forget that they are there! Their impact on your day-to-day life throughout the course of treatment will likely be minimal.

What Will I Still Be Able to Do?
Will braces get in the way of your favorite fun activities? Can you play sports with braces? These questions can be anxiety-provoking, but we have good news for you. Typically, our patients are able to continue with most, if not all, of their favorite activities that they normally participate in, including sports. It’s just important to make sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your braces and your smile while playing sports.

How Do I Stay Safe While Playing Sports?
Staying safe while playing sports with braces is a lot like staying safe while playing sports without braces. You just need the right protective gear. Depending on the sport and its risk of contact or impact, this may include a helmet, face shield, or mouthguard.

Talk with your orthodontist about the sports you might play, whether you plan on playing for competition or fun, and ask what gear they recommend. A mouthguard and other protective gear is important not only to protect your braces from damage, but also to protect your teeth from common injuries that can affect your new smile, such as chipped, broken, or knocked out teeth.

And if you have more questions like “Can you play sports with braces?” don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist. They will be happy to help you ensure the safety of your new smile while still enjoying the activities you love during orthodontic treatment.

Call our 5th Street, Riverside, Galleria, Heights, Oak Forest, Rice Village, Richmond, Spring or Hulen dental offices to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.