At Kincer Orthodontics, we know that life doesn’t stop when you get braces. For many of our patients in Marietta and the surrounding areas, sports, music, and other extracurricular activities are an essential part of their daily routine. Whether you’re an athlete, musician, or performer, having braces doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines or put your passions on hold.

However, braces do require a few adjustments to ensure your teeth, gums, and orthodontic appliances stay safe while you participate in your favorite activities. Here’s what you and your family need to know about managing braces during sports, band, and other extracurricular hobbies.

Playing Sports with Braces

If you’re an athlete, you may be concerned about how braces will affect your performance or safety. The good news is that you can absolutely continue playing sports while wearing braces—as long as you take a few precautions.

The biggest risk during contact sports is injury to the mouth. A ball, elbow, or fall can easily damage braces and lead to cuts, swollen lips, or broken brackets.

Here’s how to stay safe:

• Wear an orthodontic mouthguard. Unlike standard mouthguards, orthodontic mouthguards are specifically designed to fit comfortably over braces and protect both your teeth and appliances.
• Avoid chewing on sports equipment like mouthguards, pencils, or helmet straps.
• Inspect your braces and mouth after games or practices. If you notice any damage, contact Kincer Orthodontics promptly for repairs.

Sports like football, soccer, basketball, hockey, wrestling, and even skateboarding present higher risks of mouth injuries, so proper protection is essential.

Pro tip: According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear a mouthguard are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries. A custom orthodontic mouthguard is one of the smartest investments you can make during your treatment.

Playing Band Instruments with Braces

If you’re in marching band, orchestra, or just love playing a wind instrument, you might wonder how braces will affect your ability to play. Instruments like the trumpet, clarinet, flute, or saxophone require precise mouth positioning and lip control, so it’s natural to experience an adjustment period after getting braces.

What to expect:

• It may take a few weeks to get used to the feel of braces while playing your instrument.
• Brass players (trumpet, trombone, tuba) may experience more initial discomfort due to pressure on the lips.
• Woodwind players (clarinet, flute, saxophone) may notice less of an impact but still require an adjustment period.

Helpful tips:

• Use orthodontic wax on the brackets to reduce lip irritation while playing.
• Practice regularly to allow your lips and mouth muscles to adapt.
• Communicate with your band director or music teacher about your new braces so they can help you adjust your technique if needed.

Most musicians find that after a short period, they’re able to play just as well as before. Some even report improved embouchure control once they get used to their braces.

Performing Arts and Braces

If you’re involved in choir, theater, or public speaking, you may worry about how braces will affect your speech or appearance. At Kincer Orthodontics, we want you to feel confident on stage and in front of an audience.

What you should know:

• Braces may cause slight changes to speech in the first week or two as your lips and tongue adjust.
• Any speech adjustments are temporary and will improve with practice.
• If you’re performing under bright stage lights, your braces may reflect light, but most people in the audience won’t notice.

If you’re concerned about the appearance of braces in photos or performances, clear or ceramic braces may be an option for a more discreet look.

General Rules for Managing Braces and Activities

No matter what extracurricular activity you’re involved in, there are some universal rules to keep in mind when you’re wearing braces:

• Protect your mouth during high-contact activities with a properly fitted mouthguard.
• Avoid chewing gum or hard candies before, during, or after practice.
• Carry orthodontic wax in your activity bag in case of discomfort.
• If you experience soreness after adjustments, consider soft foods and gentle stretches before your next performance or game.
• If you experience a broken bracket, loose wire, or other orthodontic emergency, contact Kincer Orthodontics as soon as possible.

Why Extra Care Matters

Taking these precautions isn’t just about protecting your braces—it’s about keeping your treatment on track. Broken brackets, bent wires, and injuries to the mouth can delay your treatment timeline and increase your risk of oral health issues.

At Kincer Orthodontics, we want you to get the most out of your orthodontic experience without missing out on the activities you love.

Supporting Marietta’s Active Families

We’re proud to serve active families across Marietta and the surrounding communities. Whether you’re a football player at Marietta High School, a clarinetist in the Cobb County Youth Orchestra, or a student actor at a local theater, we believe braces should never hold you back from doing what you love.

Dr. Kincer and our experienced team are always available to answer questions, offer guidance, and help you navigate life with braces.

Keep Your Smile Safe and Your Passions Strong

Braces are a temporary part of your life—but your smile and hobbies are forever. With a little extra care and the right preparation, you can continue to shine on the field, on stage, or in the band room throughout your orthodontic journey.

If you have questions about managing braces and extracurricular activities, contact Kincer Orthodontics today. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile while supporting the things that make you who you are.