Absolutely — with the right protection!
If your child is active in sports, you might be wondering whether braces will slow them down. The good news? Braces don’t have to bench your athlete! With a few simple precautions — mainly a well-fitted mouthguard — your child can safely enjoy their favorite sport while keeping their smile protected.
At Varghese Orthodontics, we see many young athletes from North Aurora, Huntley, and surrounding communities who balance braces with everything from soccer and basketball to gymnastics and football. Here’s what every parent should know.
🏈 Why a Mouthguard Is a Must
When your child has braces, a mouthguard is the single best way to prevent injuries. It protects both the teeth and the orthodontic brackets from damage if your child takes a fall or gets hit in the mouth.
Without a mouthguard, even a light impact can cause:
- Broken brackets or wires
- Cuts inside the lips and cheeks
- Tooth chips or movement
A properly fitted mouthguard cushions the braces and soft tissues, preventing these injuries while keeping your child’s orthodontic treatment on track.
😬 Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
There are two main types of mouthguards to consider:
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards (store-bought):
Found at most sporting goods stores, these are affordable and easy to fit at home. However, they may not fit comfortably over braces and can distort as your child’s teeth move. - Orthodontic mouthguards (recommended):
These are designed specifically to fit over braces and adjust to tooth movement. They offer more space for brackets and wires while staying comfortable and secure.
💡 Tip: Ask our team at Varghese Orthodontics about getting a custom orthodontic mouthguard — it’s the best balance of comfort, protection, and performance.
⚽ Sports That Need Extra Protection
Mouthguards are strongly recommended for contact sports, such as:
- Football
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Hockey
- Wrestling
- Martial arts
Even non-contact sports (like baseball, gymnastics, or skateboarding) can involve accidental falls or collisions, so wearing a mouthguard is still a smart move.
🧼 Caring for the Mouthguard
- Rinse it with cool water or mouthwash after each use
- Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Replace it if it becomes worn, torn, or doesn’t fit well
A clean, well-maintained mouthguard keeps your child’s braces (and breath!) fresh.
🦷 Keeping Treatment on Track
Broken brackets or wires can slow down your child’s orthodontic progress. Wearing a mouthguard helps avoid emergency visits and keeps their smile journey moving smoothly.
If your child does experience a sports-related orthodontic issue, don’t worry — call us right away, and we’ll schedule a repair visit at our North Aurora or Huntley office.
💪 The Bottom Line
Braces shouldn’t hold your child back from doing what they love. With the right mouthguard and a few smart habits, your athlete can keep scoring goals, hitting home runs, or landing flips — all while working toward a beautiful, confident smile.
At Varghese Orthodontics, we’re proud to help kids stay active, safe, and smiling throughout their treatment.
Schedule a consultation today at our North Aurora or Huntley office — and let’s make sure your child’s smile is ready for game day!
