Wearing braces should not prevent anyone from enjoying sports or maintaining an active lifestyle. Whether it is soccer, hockey, gymnastics, or martial arts, staying active remains a vital component of overall health. Innova Orthodontics in Port Coquitlam supports this by emphasizing the importance of protecting teeth and braces during physical activity while keeping orthodontic treatments on track. For more details, visit Playing Sports with Braces.
It is entirely possible to play sports while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Many patients at Innova Orthodontics are student-athletes or adults who participate in recreational and competitive sports. However, precautions are essential. Braces and contact sports do not always mix well; without proper protection, accidental hits to the face can lead to injuries, discomfort, or damage to braces. Wearing a mouthguard is crucial.
A mouthguard serves as the first line of defense when playing sports with braces. It helps protect teeth, gums, brackets, and wires from impacts that could cause injuries and set back orthodontic progress. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends wearing a mouthguard for sports such as basketball, football, hockey, boxing, lacrosse, rugby, martial arts, volleyball, skateboarding, and track and field. Not all mouthguards are suitable for braces patients; the best option is a prefabricated orthodontic mouthguard that allows room for brackets and tooth movement, unlike boil-and-bite or custom-fitted types that may interfere with treatment. When selecting a mouthguard, ensure it is tear-resistant, breathable, easy to clean, and fits comfortably without restricting speech or airflow.
Proper maintenance of a mouthguard is equally important. After each use, gently brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Store it in a ventilated case—not a sealed container—to avoid moisture buildup and odors. Keep the mouthguard away from direct sunlight or hot water to prevent warping. It is advisable to replace the mouthguard at the start of each sports season or sooner if it becomes worn or no longer fits properly.
In case of a sports injury, immediate action is necessary. If an accident damages teeth, brackets, or wires, contact Innova Orthodontics right away. Often, applying orthodontic wax to irritated spots and rinsing with warm salt water can reduce discomfort. The team at Innova Orthodontics is available to help manage emergencies and get treatment back on track.
For some patients, especially teens and adults in non-contact sports, Invisalign in Port Coquitlam may be an alternative. Invisalign aligners are removable, making them easy to take out during physical activity when safe. However, this flexibility requires discipline, as aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day to maintain progress. The team at Innova Orthodontics works with patients to assess activity level, lifestyle, and orthodontic goals to recommend the best treatment plan, whether traditional braces or Invisalign. Trust the Port Coquitlam orthodontists at Innova to provide care that supports—not limits—active lifestyles. For more information, visit Innova Orthodontics.
