Skip to content 
Getting braces doesn’t mean sitting on the sidelines. If you’re a teen athlete in Cincinnati (or the parent of one), you might be wondering how braces will impact participation in sports. The good news? With the right protection and care, you can stay active and protect your smile at the same time.
At Dr. Romick Orthodontics, we want all of our patients to feel confident—on the field, court, mat, or track. Here’s everything you need to know to play safely with braces.
Yes, You Can Play Sports with Braces!
Whether it’s football, basketball, soccer, wrestling, or even skateboarding, braces shouldn’t stop you from doing what you love. Braces are designed to work around your lifestyle—not the other way around.
However, playing contact or high-impact sports does come with some added risks, like mouth injuries or damage to your braces. That’s where a mouthguard comes in.
Why a Mouthguard Is a Must
A mouthguard acts like a shock absorber for your teeth and braces. It helps prevent:
- Cuts and sores inside your mouth
- Broken brackets or wires
- Tooth damage or trauma
- Delays in your orthodontic treatment due to injury
Even if your sport doesn’t require one, wearing a mouthguard is strongly recommended for all athletes with braces.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Braces
Not all mouthguards are created equal—especially when you have braces. Here’s what to look for:
Orthodontic-Specific Mouthguards
These are designed to fit comfortably over braces and adapt to tooth movement during treatment. They’re more flexible and less likely to interfere with your appliances.
Custom Fit
At Dr. Romick Orthodontics, we can provide or recommend custom-made mouthguards that offer superior comfort and protection compared to over-the-counter options.
Don’t Use Boil-and-Bite
These common store-bought mouthguards may seem convenient, but they’re not ideal for braces. They can press too hard against brackets and wires, causing damage or discomfort.
What to Do If You Get Hit in the Mouth
Accidents happen, even with the best protection. If you experience:
- Loose or broken brackets
- Bent wires
- Cuts or bleeding in your mouth
- A tooth injury
Contact our office right away. Dr. Romick will assess the damage and help get you back on track without compromising your treatment timeline.
Tips for Playing It Safe
Here are a few simple habits to help teen athletes protect their braces and their smile:
- Always wear your mouthguard—even during practice.
- Keep a backup mouthguard in your gym bag or locker.
- Rinse your mouthguard daily and store it in a ventilated case.
- Stay hydrated to avoid dry mouth, which can increase irritation around braces.
Let us know about your sports schedule—we’ll offer tips tailored to your activity.
At Dr. Romick Orthodontics, we’re here to support you both on and off the field. Our goal is to help you maintain your active lifestyle while achieving a healthy, confident smile. If you’re starting treatment or in the middle of your orthodontic journey, talk to us about your sport—we’ll make sure you’re set up for success.
