If your child is active in sports and also needs orthodontic treatment, it’s natural to have concerns. Can they still play? Will braces get in the way of performance? Is there a risk of injury?

The short answer: Yes, they can still play. Yes, they can still smile. And yes, they can do both safely—with the right precautions.

Braces are more common than ever, especially among young athletes. With a smart game plan, your child can enjoy their favourite sports while getting the smile they deserve.

The Reality of Sports and Braces

Contact and non-contact sports alike can present challenges for kids with braces. One bad fall or bump could lead to painful mouth injuries or damage to the brackets and wires. That said, braces shouldn't bench your child. With proper protection, they can stay in the game.

Common Concerns from Parents and Athletes

- Will braces hurt more if my child gets hit?

- Can brackets break during sports?

- Will a mouthguard even fit over braces?

- Is it safe to play contact sports at all?

Let’s tackle those questions one by one.

How to Protect Braces During Sports

Wear a Mouthguard—Always

A properly fitted mouthguard is the single best protection against injury. It cushions blows, protects the lips from sharp brackets, and helps prevent broken braces.

There are two main types:

- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Found in sporting goods stores, these are moulded at home. They can work, but may not fit as well over braces.

- Orthodontic mouthguards: Designed specifically for brace wearers. They offer more room and flexibility to protect both teeth and hardware.

Replace as Needed

Kids grow, teeth shift, and braces change. Make sure the mouthguard is checked and replaced regularly to ensure a good fit. A mouthguard that doesn’t fit well won’t offer full protection.

Talk to Your Orthodontist

At every check-up, ask the orthodontist to inspect the mouthguard. They can adjust it or recommend a better option if needed.

Sports With Higher Risk

While any sport carries some level of risk, contact sports demand extra care:

High-Risk Sports:

- Football

- Hockey

- Rugby

- Martial arts

- Basketball

- Wrestling

These sports have higher chances of collisions, so a high-quality orthodontic mouthguard is essential.

Moderate to Low-Risk Sports:

- Baseball

- Soccer

- Skateboarding

- Gymnastics

- Mountain biking

Even though the risk is lower, accidents can still happen. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

What Happens If Braces Get Damaged?

Despite your best efforts, sometimes things happen. If a bracket breaks or a wire gets knocked loose during play:

1. Stay calm

2. Check for bleeding or damage to the lips or cheeks

3. Apply dental wax to cover any sharp edges

4. Call your orthodontist to schedule a repair

Most orthodontic emergencies aren’t true emergencies, but they still need timely attention.

Playing Confidently with Braces

Braces aren’t just about fixing teeth. They’re about building confidence. That’s especially important for young athletes, who already face enough pressure in sports and social settings.

Tips to Keep Confidence High:

- Choose colourful elastic bands to match team colours

- Stay consistent with oral hygiene to keep braces clean

- Celebrate small milestones in treatment

When athletes feel good about their smile, they bring that energy into everything—games, practices, and everyday life.

Why Braces Shouldn’t Wait

Some parents consider delaying orthodontic treatment until after their child finishes sports seasons. But waiting can make problems worse. Crowding, overbites, or alignment issues don’t pause for soccer season. Early treatment can often shorten the overall time in braces.

The key is to start treatment with a plan that supports an active lifestyle. That’s where a trusted orthodontist makes all the difference.

What to Expect During Treatment

Getting braces doesn’t mean giving up freedom. Here's what your child can expect:

- Regular check-ups every 6-8 weeks

- Adjustments to wires and brackets

- Some soreness after adjustments (easily managed)

- Mouthguards for sports days

Kids adjust quickly, and most are back on the field in no time.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist for Active Kids

If you’re looking for Winnipeg orthodontists who understand the needs of student-athletes, Rykiss Orthodontics has your back. We help families balance treatment with active lifestyles every day. From personalized care plans to custom-fitted mouthguards, we’re here to protect your child’s smile on and off the field.

Whether your child plays hockey, soccer, or basketball, our team at Rykiss Orthodontics ensures that Winnipeg braces fit comfortably into their routine.

Book a consultation today and find out how we keep athletes playing safe and smiling confidently.

Final Whistle: Yes, You Can Have Both

Sports and braces don’t have to be at odds. With the right mouthguard and orthodontic support, your child can chase goals, make tackles, and hit home runs—all while working toward a winning smile.

Protect the smile. Play the sport. Stay confident. Let Rykiss Orthodontics guide the way.