Lacing up for the season and wondering how to keep your braces game-ready? Sports in Winnetka, Wilmette, and the rest of the North Shore bring plenty of action, but all that movement can put your orthodontic work to the test. Board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Brady, and the team at Brady Orthodontics know how to keep your smile secure while you keep your head in the game. Let’s start by looking at why sports safety is so crucial when braces are part of your lineup.
Keeping Your Smile Off the Injury List
The unexpected is part of the thrill in sports: a last-minute goal, a wild rebound, or that slide into home plate that leaves your uniform covered in dirt. But when you’re wearing braces, the unexpected can also mean a bent wire or a bracket that’s suddenly out of place.
That means without the right prep, a fast slapshot at Weinberg Recreation Center or a line drive during KWBA baseball can turn into extra time in the orthodontic chair instead of on the scoreboard. Keeping your braces in game shape means protecting them every bit as much as you protect your knees, elbows, or head. Now, let’s look at the gear that can make all the difference when the whistle blows.
Guard Up, Game On
Every athlete has that one piece of gear they can’t play without. For braces-wearers, it’s the mouthguard: your silent, unshakable teammate that’s always ready to take a hit for you. It won’t score the winning goal, but it will keep your brackets, wires, and gums out of trouble when the action gets rough.
Forget the boil-and-bite types. They can pinch, push, or block tooth movement, making them a no-go for braces wearers. Instead, Dr. Brady recommends braces-friendly silicone guards or going all-in with a custom version made to fit your exact smile.
Why an orthodontic mouthguard is a smarter pick:
- Braces-ready design – Made from high-grade silicone that cushions both teeth and orthodontic hardware, these guards hold steady no matter how hard you hustle.
- Protection beyond the big hits – Even in low-contact sports, a stray ball or elbow can scrape soft tissues. Braces-friendly guards protect without adding bulk or discomfort.
- Smart store-bought choices – Brands like Shock Doctor, Vettex, and Tapout offer orthodontic-friendly silicone guards, great for when a custom fit isn’t available right away.
- Custom for the win – For the best blend of comfort and coverage, Dr. Brady can create a guard tailored to your braces so your season runs smoothly.
With the right mouthguard, you’ll spend more time scoring points and less time in the orthodontic chair. Next, we’ll look at how to pick the one that works best for your sport and your smile.
Picking and Caring for the Right Mouthguard
Not all mouthguards play at the same level, and for braces-wearers, the wrong one can actually work against you.
Dr. Brady strongly advises skipping the boil-and-bite versions you’ll find at most sporting goods stores. They can press against brackets, cause uneven pressure, and never truly fit the way they should.
Instead, Brady Orthodontics recommends custom-made mouthguards designed for orthodontic patients. They’re built to protect without slowing you down, letting you call plays, cheer on teammates, and breathe easily.
Once you’ve got the right gear, keeping it game-ready is simple:
- Rinse before and after use to keep bacteria off your smile.
- Store in a ventilated case so it can dry between games.
- Avoid high heat. A mouthguard left in the car during a North Shore summer can lose its shape fast.
- Pack a spare for tournaments or back-to-back practices in Glencoe, Wilmette, or Northfield.
With your mouthguard in top form, you’re ready for anything. Next, we’ll cover what to do if your braces take an unexpected hit mid-game.
When a Hit Finds Your Braces
Even the best mouthguard can’t block every surprise. A fast-moving puck, an elbow under the basket, or a misjudged fly ball can still make contact. If your braces take a hit mid-game, here’s how to handle it without letting the scoreboard (or your smile) suffer.
Pause the Play
Take a moment to check things out. Look for loose brackets, bent wires, or anything that feels out of place.
Wax to the Rescue
If something sharp is poking your cheek or gum, orthodontic wax is your go-to. A quick cover-up can keep you comfortable enough to finish the game.
Call in the Pros
Once the final whistle blows, contact Brady Orthodontics so Dr. Brady can get your treatment back on track quickly. (And yes, attempting DIY repairs is a fast way to make things worse!)
Knowing what to do in the moment means you can bounce back fast. Next, let’s look at how Brady Orthodontics helps athletes keep their smiles in the game all season long.
Why North Shore Athletes Choose Brady Orthodontics
When your schedule bounces between early morning practices, late-night games, and everything in between, orthodontic care has to keep up.
Dr. Brady combines board-certified expertise with a personal, small-practice touch that athletes (and their parents) appreciate. With two convenient North Shore locations, evening and weekend appointments, and the latest technology, Brady Orthodontics makes it easy to fit treatment into even the busiest season.
Here’s why local athletes keep coming back:
- Expert Care That Moves Fast – Dr. Brady’s extensive training and precise planning help keep treatment smooth without any delays.
- Options for Every Play – From traditional braces and clear ceramic brackets to clear aligners, treatment is tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
- Digital Scans – iTero scanning creates a 3D model of your teeth without the mess, making visits smoother.
- Wires That Work Smarter – Shape-memory NiTi wires reduce the need for constant tightening, freeing up your calendar.
- Rooted in the Community – The practice supports local schools, sports teams, and community programs like Boys Hope Girls Hope and Winnetka Community House.
With Brady Orthodontics, your smile stays game-ready while you focus on the scoreboard!
Keep Your Smile in the Game
From Friday night lights to Saturday morning matchups, Brady Orthodontics makes sure your braces can handle every sprint, swing, and score. Dr. Brady mixes orthodontic expertise with a hometown North Shore feel, turning braces protection into a play you can run without thinking twice. Book your free consultation at our Winnetka or Evanston offices today, get game-day ready, and play with confidence all summer long!