The presence of braces does not prevent a player from being on the field, but it does introduce a heightened risk of oral injury. Soccer, while not a collision sport like football, involves significant contact, sudden stops, and the potential for impact from balls, ground, or other players. Continuing to play is possible and encouraged, provided the proper protective measures are consistently followed to safeguard the mouth and the orthodontic appliances.
Playing Soccer with Braces: Safety and Risks
Participation in soccer while wearing braces requires recognizing the specific physical risks involved. A direct blow to the mouth, which can happen during a header or an accidental elbow, can drive the metal brackets into the soft tissues of the mouth. This can cause lacerations to the lips, cheeks, and gums. The exposed hardware of the braces acts as a fixed point that can tear the surrounding tissue upon impact.
Beyond injury to the mouth’s soft tissues, the orthodontic hardware itself is vulnerable to damage. Forceful impact can result in broken brackets or bent archwires that shift out of alignment. Damaged appliances can cause immediate discomfort and may require unscheduled visits to the orthodontist for repair. Such damage often results in delays to the overall treatment timeline. The primary answer to mitigating these risks lies in comprehensive, mandatory protection.
Mandatory Protection: Choosing the Right Mouthguard
Wearing a protective mouthguard is not optional for soccer players with braces; it is necessary to absorb shock and prevent lacerations. Specialized orthodontic mouthguards are the preferred choice, as they are designed to fit over brackets and wires. These guards are typically made from medical-grade silicone, a high-quality material that offers excellent cushioning. The design allows the mouthguard to adapt as the teeth gradually shift during treatment without needing constant replacement.
While standard mouthguards are available, they are not ideal for orthodontic patients. Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and bulky, offering a loose fit that provides minimal protection. Boil-and-bite mouthguards can also pose a problem; if they fit too tightly, they may impede the movement of the teeth or even risk dislodging brackets during a hard impact. Specialized orthodontic options are designed with a channel that accommodates the braces, ensuring a secure, comfortable fit that prioritizes both protection and the integrity of the treatment.
Navigating Orthodontic Emergencies
Should an injury or hardware damage occur during play, knowing the immediate steps to take is important for temporary relief. If a wire becomes displaced and pokes the cheek or gum tissue, a small piece of orthodontic wax should be applied over the sharp end to create a smooth surface. This temporary fix prevents further irritation until professional help can be sought. For a loose bracket that is still attached to the wire, the same orthodontic wax can be used to stabilize it and keep it from rotating.
For any significant impact that causes a loose tooth, severe pain, or uncontrollable bleeding, immediate attention from a medical professional is necessary before contacting the orthodontist. In all cases of hardware damage, the orthodontist must be contacted as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment. They can provide specific guidance for a temporary fix and assess the damage to ensure the treatment plan remains on track.