If you or your teen has braces, then it will be a steady journey to the straight smile they love. During this time, they will inevitably want to do many things. Your loved one might be involved with sports, but it’s easy to be worried about any damage or injury to their wires and brackets or mouth! To make sure their grin stays protected, here are three tips that every athlete should know during this treatment.
1.) Keep Up with a Mouthguard
One of the most important tools your teen should have at their disposal is a mouthguard that’s designed for braces. These differ from the standard ones as orthodontic-specific ones will fit comfortably over their hardware. That way, both their smile and appliances are protected from any blows.
2.) Steer Clear of Certain Snacks
Before and after a game, there may be plenty of snacks to go around. However, hard and sticky options should be avoided. Popcorn, some tough-to-chew protein bars, and similar items can lead to a broken wire or bracket. Steering clear of them can prevent complications; that way, your loved one can focus on winning or celebrating the game!
3.) Have a Braces Kit Handy
While your teen may do their best to prevent an orthodontic emergency, it’s possible they still find themself in one. A great way you can help them through this is by having a braces kit on hand or in their gear bag.
Orthodontic wax, a travel toothbrush, floss picks, and other similar things can help in a pinch if a wire gets bent or a bracket becomes loose. You can get a temporary fix to handle the situation until you can visit their orthodontist. Better yet, consider having pain relievers stashed away, just in case the soreness is taking their head out of the game.
In the end, sports don’t have to get in the way of orthodontic treatment and vice versa! By taking steps against any possible complications, you can trust that your investment in your loved one’s smile will stay protected and on track.
About the Practice
At Casady Square Orthodontics, our team is passionate about helping the Oklahoma City community achieve the straighter smiles they deserve. Led by Dr. Payam Ishani, we are here to guide you through your journey and avoid delays. Whether you or your loved one is an athlete, we’ll stay at your side and give you the tools you need to keep up with your service, such as an athletic mouthguard. If you have any questions about adjusting to life with wires and brackets, schedule an appointment or call our office at (405) 805-0997.