Orthodontic Security: How to Protect Your Child’s Braces While They Play Sports

Many children wear braces in their teen years, but you might be worried about your child’s orthodontic treatment if they are an athlete. Many contact sports are infamous for causing oral injuries, and a blow to the mouth can mean a setback for the orthodontic process or even damage to the teeth, lips, or cheeks. Here’s a brief guide to keep your athletic kid’s mouth safe while they are wearing braces on the field.

What Kind of Orthodontic Emergencies Can Happen During Sports?

Contact sports are associated with a range of oral injuries and orthodontic emergencies. A few of these include:

Dislodged teeth

If a tooth is knocked out, take care to locate it and handle it only by the crown, as touching the root can damage the tissues within. Clean it by swishing it about in cool water and place it gently back into the socket, in the lip, or in a container with milk or saliva. Contact your dentist to explain the situation and let them know you’re coming. A dislodged tooth’s chances of being reimplanted begin to drop after an hour, but there are over-the-counter treatments that can keep them savable for up to twenty-four hours. Parents of athletes may want to stock up on them.

Fractured teeth

If your child’s tooth is broken, try to find the missing piece so you can bring it with you to the dentist’s office. While small chips can wait a few days, large cracks or broken crowns require immediate attention.

Damaged braces

Broken wires or brackets can alter the way the braces exert pressure on the teeth, causing pain, discomfort, or even delays in orthodontic treatment. If your child’s braces are broken, schedule an emergency orthodontic appointment as soon as possible.

Why It’s Important to Wear a Mouthguard

One of the best ways to prevent oral injuries for athletes is for them to wear athletic mouthguards. These devices are usually designed to easily fit over orthodontic appliances like braces. Your dentist can provide a customized mouthguard that is superior to any store-bought variety. This will provide optimum protection while your child gets exercise, learns teamwork, and has fun.

Sports are meant to be fun and healthy for kids. By keeping their teeth and braces safe, you can keep their orthodontic treatment on track and set them up to have a beautiful smile in the winner’s circle.

About the Practice

Serenity Orthodontics offers the finest orthodontic services available for kids and adults in Cumming, Braselton, Roswell, and Jonesboro, GA. Led by Drs. Susan Podray-Donovan, Kylie Lewis, and Karolina Grochowska, the staff ensures that each treatment receives compassionate and effective care in a friendly and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include traditional orthodontics, clear aligners, and orthodontic emergency services. To learn more about getting a customized mouthguard for you or your little athlete, contact the practice online.