Are you an athlete with braces? While participating in sports can be a lot of fun, it can also lead to potential problems. Luckily, there are some simple solutions to help protect your braces, manage pain and discomfort, and maintain good oral hygiene. Check out these helpful tips to keep your teeth and braces healthy while you stay active!
In this blog, we will discuss what you should not forget when playing sports with braces, such as how to protect them, manage pain or discomfort, and maintain good oral hygiene.
Protect Your Braces by Wearing a Mouthguard
If you’re an athlete with braces, participating in sports can increase the likelihood that you’ll get into an accident with your braces. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: using a mouthguard.
A mouthguard is a protective piece of equipment that can prevent injuries to your teeth, lips, and braces. It helps absorb the impact of any hits or blows to the face, reducing the risk of damage to your braces and injuries to your mouth.
One type of mouthguard that works well with braces is the boil-and-bite. These guards are made of a flexible material that can be easily shaped to fit your teeth. You just need to boil the material and then bite into it to mold it to your teeth. They are also affordable and readily available.
How to Managing Pain and Discomfort
Even if you are too cautious, accidents can still happen. The good news is that there are ways to manage pain issues with your braces. Here are some helpful tips:
Rinse with salt water
If you’re experiencing soreness or discomfort while wearing braces, one easy way to alleviate the pain is by rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution. First, mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. After that, you must gargle it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This simple home remedy can help soothe any soreness or irritation you’re feeling, and it’s a great way to manage pain without relying on medication.
Apply orthodontic wax
If the brackets or wires of your braces are causing discomfort, you can apply orthodontic wax to alleviate the irritation. Take a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball, then press it onto the area causing irritation.
Take pain relievers
If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain from your braces, you may find relief by taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce swelling and pain, making you feel more comfortable while your braces do their job. However, remember to follow the recommended dosage.
Drink cold water
Another home remedy that you can do is drinking cold water. It can help relieve discomfort and pain caused by braces. You can also try sucking on ice cubes or eating frozen yogurt.
Remember that these tips are just temporary to manage your pain or discomfort related to braces. Your orthodontist is the best person to advise you on managing pain and discomfort, and they may need to make adjustments or repairs to your braces if necessary. So, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist if you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort.
It would be best to reach out to a reliable dental clinic like Kumra Orthodontics. Kumra Orthodontics is a known and trusted orthodontist in Stafford, VA, offering quality yet affordable care with 15 years of undisputed experience helping people achieve their best smiles. Smile with confidence today by contacting Kumra Orthodontics!
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, especially when you are physically active while wearing braces. Engaging in sports and other physical activities can increase the likelihood of bacteria buildup in your mouth. If you neglect your oral hygiene, this can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and even tooth decay. Therefore, it is important to take extra care of your teeth and braces to avoid any potential problems.
Continue to clean your teeth
First and foremost, it is recommended to brush your teeth, and braces after every meal or snack are non-negotiable. This will help remove any food particles or bacteria that may be trapped in your braces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean around the brackets and wires gently. You can also use an interdental brush or floss threader to clean between the wires and teeth.
Use mouthwash
It is crucial to use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill any bacteria that may be present in your mouth. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with an antiseptic mouthwash after every meal or snack. This will help to prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Properly use your mouthguard
It is also essential to wear a properly fitting mouthguard during physical activities. As mentioned earlier, a mouthguard can help protect your teeth and braces from any potential damage or injury. Make sure to choose a mouthguard that fits well and does not interfere with your braces.
Take Extra Care of Your Braces!
As an athlete wearing braces, it’s important not to overlook your oral health. Understandably, sports can be exciting, but having braces can make your situation a little different. Remember to be cautious and always remember that you have braces on. Don’t be careless and put your teeth and braces in danger. Take the necessary precautions to protect them. Your smile will thank you later!
