Winter in southern Utah might not bring heavy snow, but it is still a season full of activity. From basketball and wrestling to hiking, running, or weekend ski and snowboarding trips, staying active is a big part of life in St. George. But if you or your child wear braces, it is important to understand winter sports braces safety — how to protect your smile during every game, practice, and adventure.
At Orthodontic Specialists, we love helping our patients stay confident and active while their smiles transform. With simple precautions, you can enjoy all your favorite winter sports without worrying about broken brackets or sore lips.
Why Mouthguards Matter for Winter Sports Braces Safety
Braces make your mouth more vulnerable to injury because brackets and wires can press into the soft tissues of your mouth during impact. A fall on the court, a bump during wrestling, or a tumble on the slopes can lead to painful cuts or even damaged braces.
That’s where a mouthguard makes all the difference. Think of it as protective gear for your smile. A properly fitted mouthguard absorbs shock, cushions your lips and cheeks, and shields your braces from direct impact. It is a simple, effective way to prevent injuries and keep your orthodontic treatment on track.
What Is an Orthodontic Mouthguard?
Not all mouthguards are designed for braces. A standard “boil-and-bite” guard molds tightly around the teeth, which can press against brackets and wires, causing discomfort or even bending them out of place.
An orthodontic mouthguard is made from soft, medical-grade silicone that’s flexible, shock-absorbent, and slightly larger than a traditional guard. This design leaves space around your brackets and wires so your teeth can continue to move naturally during treatment. It also provides a protective cushion that helps prevent cuts, irritation, and brace damage if you take a hit or fall.
Orthodontic mouthguards are comfortable, easy to clean, and a must-have for every athlete who wants to practice good winter sports braces safety.
Sports That Call for a Mouthguard
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), athletes who wear braces should always use an orthodontic mouthguard to help prevent painful injuries and protect their orthodontic investment. The AAO emphasizes that mouthguards are one of the most effective — and affordable — ways to safeguard your smile during sports.
While basketball and wrestling dominate local winter sports, other activities can pose a risk to your smile. Here in St. George, athletes also stay busy with:
- Volleyball and cheerleading — where close contact can cause accidental bumps or falls.
- Soccer and biking, which often continue year-round thanks to the mild climate.
- Skiing and snowboarding for those weekend mountain trips up north.
If your activity involves speed, contact, or a chance of falling, wearing a mouthguard is the smart move. It protects your braces, your teeth, and your confidence — allowing you to focus on performance instead of potential injuries.
Quick Post-Game Care
After each game or practice, do a quick check of your braces. Look for any bent wires, loose brackets, or sore spots. If something feels off, call Orthodontic Specialists right away so we can make simple repairs before they affect your treatment.
If your mouth feels tender, rinse with warm saltwater to ease irritation. A little care after play helps keep your smile healthy and your orthodontic progress moving smoothly.
For more tips on keeping your braces in great condition, visit our Orthodontic FAQs page.
A Thanksgiving Reflection
As Thanksgiving approaches, our team at Orthodontic Specialists wants to extend heartfelt gratitude to our patients and families. We are thankful for your trust, dedication, and the joy you bring into our practice every day.
When you gather around the table this season, enjoy your braces-friendly favorites like turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie — and skip sticky or crunchy foods that could damage your brackets.
From all of us at Orthodontic Specialists in St. George, we wish you a happy, healthy Thanksgiving filled with family, fun, and beautiful smiles.
Contact Orthodontic Specialists in St. George, UT, to learn more about orthodontic mouthguards and year-round smile protection.
Orthodontic Specialists
640 E 700 S Suite 101
St. George, UT 84770
