By When your child finally gets their kids braces in Melbourne or anywhere really, protecting that investment becomes your next big mission—especially if they’re mad about footy, netball or hockey. Sports and braces can go together, but only if you’ve got the right gear and know-how to keep their smile safe. Whether it’s a muddy winter match or just lunchtime soccer at school, accidents happen—and so do bent brackets and busted wires. This applies to both metal braces and transparent braces. This blog is your sideline guide to how mouthguards and orthodontics for children work together to prevent sports mishaps (and avoid those emergency ortho appointments). Let’s dive in!
Why Braces + Contact Sports = Caution
Contact sports are great for building confidence, coordination and friendships—but they also come with a risk to the face. A flying elbow, a rogue ball, or even a simple fall can cause serious damage to the mouth and braces.
While braces are designed to straighten teeth, they’re not designed to absorb impact. A hit to the mouth while wearing braces can:
- Cut lips, cheeks or tongue against brackets
- Break brackets or wires
- Damage the teeth underneath
- Prolong orthodontic treatment
And that’s why mouthguards are non-negotiable for active kids and teens with braces, whether it’s traditional metal braces or transparent (ceramic) braces.
What Exactly Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible shield that covers the teeth and braces to absorb shock and prevent injury. They’re commonly worn during sports and other high-contact activities to protect both the player and their smile.
There are three types of mouthguards:
- Stock mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to wear, but they offer the least comfort and protection—especially over braces.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Softened in hot water and moulded to the mouth. Better than stock versions but not always ideal with changing orthodontic work.
- Custom-made mouthguards: Created by a dental professional to fit snugly over braces or transparent braces, offering the best protection and comfort.
Custom mouthguards are the gold standard for kids with braces—they’re safer, comfier, and less likely to pop out mid-game. Chat to your childrens orthodontist, they may even be able to supply custom mouthguards, making it easier to change things as needed during orthodontic check-ups.
Wearing Braces with Confidence on the Field
Your child or teen doesn’t need to give up their favourite sport just because they’re wearing braces. In fact, many orthodontic clinics recommend physical activity as part of a balanced, happy lifestyle.
Here are a few tips to help your child play it safe:
- Always wear a mouthguard during practices and games—even non-contact sports can cause accidental collisions.
- Store it properly in a ventilated container to avoid bacteria build-up.
- Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and cool water (never hot—it warps the shape!).
- Replace it as needed, especially during major dental changes (like new brackets or shifting teeth).
And don’t forget to pack a small ortho emergency kit in their sports bag—think orthodontic wax, floss threaders, and the orthodontist’s contact number. Just in case.
What If Braces Get Damaged During Sport?
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. If your child’s braces are damaged:
- Stay calm—most orthodontic emergencies can wait a day or two.
- Cover sharp bits with orthodontic wax to prevent further injury.
- Call the orthodontist and schedule a repair appointment.
- Avoid adjusting or removing anything yourself unless instructed.
The good news? With the right mouthguard, you’ll rarely face this scenario. Especially with modern kids braces in Melbourne and beyond.
Why Orthodontic Protection Matters More Than Ever
Orthodontics isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about lifelong oral health. A single impact injury can reverse weeks or months of treatment progress. And let’s be honest—repairs can add up quickly.
When you invest in orthodontics for children, a custom-fitted mouthguard is the protective sidekick every sporting kid or teen needs. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind—and fewer late-night orthodontic emergencies.
Young Smiles Are Worth Protecting
If your child wears kids braces in Melbourne or is undergoing treatment with metal or transparent braces, don’t let sport sideline their orthodontic journey. With the right mouthguard and a little prep, they can play hard, smile wide, and stay on track with their orthodontics for children treatment plan. A well-fitted mouthguard isn’t just another piece of sports gear—it’s smile insurance for you and your kid.