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At Bergen Orthodontics, we know many of our patients lead active lives — and that includes playing sports! Whether you’re on the soccer field, basketball court, or wrestling mat, wearing braces shouldn’t slow you down. With a few smart precautions, you can stay safe, protect your smile, and keep your treatment on track while giving your all in the game.
Here’s how to protect your braces and boost your performance when you’re playing sports.
Do You Need a Mouthguard if You Have Braces?
Yes! A properly fitted mouthguard is your best defense when playing sports with braces. Mouthguards cushion your teeth, lips, and cheeks from impacts, reducing the risk of injuries like:
- Cut lips and cheeks (brackets and wires can cause extra damage if hit directly)
- Broken brackets or wires
- Tooth damage or shifting
What Kind of Mouthguard Works Best with Braces?
Not all mouthguards are created equal. For athletes with braces, we recommend orthodontic mouthguards, which are designed to fit comfortably over brackets and wires while allowing room for tooth movement. These are softer and slightly larger than standard mouthguards, offering:
- Extra space for braces
- Protection without restricting orthodontic progress
- Comfort even as teeth shift during treatment
At Bergen Orthodontics, we can help you find the right mouthguard for your sport and your smile.
Sports That Require Extra Caution
Contact sports — like football, hockey, basketball, and wrestling — pose the highest risk for braces wearers. Even sports with occasional physical contact — like soccer or lacrosse — can lead to accidental hits to the face. No matter the sport, a mouthguard is essential if you’re wearing braces.
Low-Contact Sports
If you play sports like tennis, track, swimming, or golf, your risk of facial injury is much lower — but it’s still smart to take precautions and talk to your orthodontist if you have concerns.
Tips for Playing Sports with Braces
1. Wear Your Mouthguard — Every Practice & Game
It only takes one hit to cause serious damage. Consistently wearing your orthodontic mouthguard can help prevent injuries and expensive repairs.
2. Keep a Braces Care Kit in Your Sports Bag
Pack a small kit with:
- Orthodontic wax (for comfort if a wire or bracket irritates your cheek)
- A travel toothbrush and toothpaste (for quick cleanings after snacks)
- Extra elastics (if part of your treatment plan)
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food and bacteria that can get stuck in your braces during games or practice.
4. Check Your Braces After Games
Even if you wear a mouthguard, check your brackets and wires for damage after every game. If you notice anything loose, bent, or broken, contact Bergen Orthodontics right away.
5. Keep Up with Regular Adjustments
Don’t skip your regular orthodontic appointments just because you’re busy with sports. Staying on schedule ensures your treatment stays on track — and your orthodontist can make sure your braces and mouthguard are working well together.
Can You Play Sports with Invisalign?
If you wear Invisalign instead of braces, your treatment may require fewer adjustments for sports. Invisalign aligners are:
- Removable (so you can take them out for games if needed)
- Smooth and comfortable (no brackets to irritate your mouth)
That said, it’s still smart to wear a mouthguard during contact sports — even if you take your aligners out. Ask our team about custom-fit mouthguards designed for Invisalign patients.
At Bergen Orthodontics, we want our patients to enjoy all their favorite activities — including sports — while achieving a healthy, confident smile. Whether you’re just starting braces or nearing the finish line, we’ll help you protect your smile every step of the way.
