Brought to you by Morgan Orthodontics – Leesburg & Winchester, VA
Fall means cooler temperatures, changing leaves—and for many families, the start of school sports. Whether your child is playing football, soccer, or field hockey, it’s an exciting time to build teamwork, boost fitness, and have fun. But if your student-athlete is undergoing orthodontic treatment, fall sports season also brings a unique set of challenges.
At Morgan Orthodontics, we want your child to excel on the field and stay protected while doing it. From mouthguards to smart playing habits, we’re here to help you play it safe this season.
🏈 Why Sports Protection Matters with Braces
Braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances are delicate and can be damaged during high-impact sports. More importantly, trauma to the mouth while wearing braces can cause serious injuries—not just to the hardware, but to the lips, cheeks, and gums.
A direct hit to the face without proper protection can lead to:
- Broken brackets or wires
- Cuts to the inside of the mouth
- Tooth damage or loss
- Delays in orthodontic progress
That’s why wearing a proper mouthguard isn’t optional—it’s essential.
🦷 Custom Mouthguards: The MVP of Protection
While generic, over-the-counter mouthguards offer some level of protection, they often don’t fit well over braces. They may be uncomfortable, slip out during play, or fail to provide complete coverage.
At Morgan Orthodontics, we offer custom-fit orthodontic mouthguards that:
- Fit comfortably over braces
- Offer superior impact protection
- Allow athletes to breathe and speak more easily
- Are designed to accommodate changing teeth alignment during treatment
These mouthguards are especially important for contact sports like football, hockey, wrestling, and martial arts—but we recommend them for any sport where a fall or facial impact is possible, including basketball, skateboarding, or gymnastics.
⚽ Tips for Athletes with Braces
Aside from wearing a mouthguard, here are a few tips to keep your braces safe throughout the season:
- Bring Your Mouthguard to Practice & Games
Keep it in a clean case in your gear bag. Make it a habit just like shin guards or cleats. - Clean It Regularly
Rinse your mouthguard with cold water after each use and clean it with mild soap weekly. Avoid hot water, which can warp the shape. - Replace It as Needed
Braces and teeth shift over time, so your mouthguard may need adjustments or replacement during your treatment. - Alert Coaches & Trainers
Let them know you have braces. In the event of a facial injury, they’ll know to proceed carefully and alert your orthodontist if needed. - Call Us After Any Injury
Even if the damage seems minor, contact our office right away if your mouth takes a hit. We’ll assess if any brackets or wires have shifted.
👨⚕️ We’re Here to Help
Our team at Morgan Orthodontics is committed to supporting student-athletes throughout their orthodontic journey. Whether you need a custom mouthguard, emergency care after a sports injury, or just advice on the best gear, we’re only a call away.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are custom mouthguards better than store-bought ones?
A: Yes. Custom mouthguards are molded to fit your teeth and braces precisely, offering greater comfort and protection compared to generic options.
Q: My child just got braces—can they still play contact sports?
A: Absolutely! With the proper protection, including a high-quality mouthguard, there’s no need to sit out the season.
Q: How often should we replace the mouthguard?
A: Typically every 6 months or as teeth shift. If it becomes uncomfortable or damaged, bring it in and we’ll help with a replacement.
Q: What if my child forgets to wear their mouthguard and gets hit in the mouth?
A: Call us right away. We’ll check for damage to the appliance and ensure everything is progressing properly.
Q: Can my child wear their aligners while playing sports?
A: We recommend removing clear aligners trays during contact sports and wearing a mouthguard instead. Remember to store trays in their case to avoid loss or damage.
🏥 Contact Morgan Orthodontics Today
Whether your child is new to braces or gearing up for another sports season, our friendly, experienced team is here to provide the tools and guidance they need for safe play.
Leesburg Office:
📍 19420 Golf Vista Plaza, Ste. 120, Leesburg, VA 20176
📞 703-723-5900
Winchester Office:
📍 1841 West Plaza Dr., Winchester, VA 22601
📞 540-667-5446
Purcellville Office:
📍 610 E Main Street, Purcellville, VA 20132
📞 540-338-8125
Final Thoughts
Fall sports are an exciting part of school life—but braces shouldn’t be a barrier to enjoying the game. With the right protection, your athlete can smile confidently both on and off the field. If you have questions about orthodontic safety or need a custom mouthguard, schedule an appointment with Morgan Orthodontics today. Let’s make this season safe, strong, and smile-ready! 🏆😁