Think braces mean sitting on the sidelines? Most people are surprised to learn how easily they can stay active while wearing braces with just a few simple adjustments.
Braces: Straighter Teeth, Healthier Smiles
Braces are a treatment that gently moves your teeth into straighter, better-aligned positions. They use brackets and wires or clear aligners to gradually shift teeth over time.
Who Are Braces For?
Braces are suitable for teens and adults alike. You might benefit from braces if you have:
- Crowded, spaced, or crooked teeth
- An overbite, underbite, or other bite concerns
How Do They Work?
Think of braces like guiding a row of plants into a neat line. They apply small, steady pressure that slowly moves your teeth into the right position over months or years. We schedule regular visits to gently adjust that pressure along the way. Once treatment is complete, a retainer helps keep everything in place.
The Benefits
- Healthier bite and reduced tooth wear
- Easier cleaning with straighter teeth
- Improved appearance and confidence
- Lower risk of gum issues long term
We walk you through your personalized plan, expected timeline, and care tips so your treatment feels as comfortable as possible.
Staying Active During Orthodontic Treatment
Braces don’t have to slow you down. With a few simple adjustments, you can keep playing the sports and doing the activities you love throughout your treatment.
Here are the key ways an orthodontic appliance can affect your active lifestyle and how to handle each one:
- Contact sports: Wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect your braces and your mouth from impact. We recommend an orthodontic mouthguard, which is designed to fit over brackets comfortably.
- Swimming: Water sports are generally safe and require no special adjustments. You can swim freely without any risk to your appliance.
- Wind instruments: Playing instruments like the trumpet may feel different at first. Most players adjust within a few weeks.
- High-impact activities: Activities like martial arts or rugby need extra protection for your teeth and braces. Always talk to us before returning to these sports.
| Activity | Risk Level | Recommended Precaution |
|---|---|---|
| Contact Sports (e.g. rugby, AFL) | High | Wear an orthodontic mouthguard at all times |
| Swimming | Low | No special adjustments needed |
| Wind Instruments (e.g. trumpet) | Low | Allow a few weeks to adjust to the new feel |
| Martial Arts | High | Consult your orthodontist before returning; use a mouthguard |
| Running / Cycling | Low | No special adjustments needed |
| Basketball / Soccer | Medium | Orthodontic mouthguard recommended |
The most important step is simply being prepared. Protecting your braces means protecting your progress, so a small amount of planning goes a long way toward keeping your treatment on track.
Braces at My Orthodontist
At My Orthodontist, we offer braces because we believe everyone deserves a smile they feel confident in. Braces are one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth and improve your bite.
We are committed to helping you achieve lasting results in a comfortable and supportive environment. Whether you are considering braces for yourself or your child, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
What Patients Are Saying About Braces at My Orthodontist
Patients at My Orthodontist consistently rave about the welcoming staff and outstanding results. One patient shared, “I got my smile back and it looks fantastic!” Another noted their child went from fearing braces to loving appointments.
With a modern, clean office and a team that makes everyone feel comfortable, it is no surprise patients are walking out “ear to ear” and eagerly recommending My Orthodontist to friends and family.
One testimonial captures this perfectly, with a patient highlighting that “the staff is amazing and very professional” and specifically praising team members Mariela, Jackie, and Eurianny for making the entire braces experience exceptional from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “If you are planning on getting braces, it’s the place to go” – a sentiment shared by many happy patients. Read their full story.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
Can you play contact sports while wearing braces?
Yes, you can still play contact sports with braces, but protection is essential. We strongly recommend wearing an orthodontic mouthguard, which is specially designed to fit comfortably over your brackets. For high-impact sports like rugby or martial arts, we suggest speaking with us before returning to play so we can make sure you are fully protected.
Who is a good candidate for braces treatment?
Braces are suitable for both teens and adults. You may benefit from braces if you have crowded, spaced, or crooked teeth, or if you have bite concerns like an overbite or underbite. At My Orthodontist, we walk you through a personalized plan so you know exactly what to expect.
What are the health benefits of getting braces?
Straightening your teeth does more than improve your smile. Braces can give you a healthier bite, reduce tooth wear, make cleaning easier, and lower your long-term risk of gum issues. You also gain improved confidence from a smile you feel good about.
Can you swim or do non-contact activities with braces on?
Absolutely. Swimming, running, and cycling are all low-risk activities that require no special adjustments when you have braces. You can continue enjoying these activities throughout your entire treatment without any concerns.
How do braces work to straighten teeth over time?
Braces apply small, steady pressure using brackets and wires to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position over months or years. We schedule regular visits to gently adjust that pressure along the way. Once your treatment is complete, a retainer helps keep your results in place. The American Association of Orthodontists offers further guidance on what to expect throughout your orthodontic journey.
Start Your Braces Journey Today
At My Orthodontist, we are here to support you every step of the way toward a confident, healthy smile. We provide expert braces care tailored to fit your lifestyle and individual needs.
If you’re ready to start your braces journey without slowing down your active lifestyle, call My Orthodontist or schedule online today to get expert guidance tailored to you.