What precautions should individuals who actively participate in sports take to avoid injuries during orthodontic treatment?

Individuals involved in contact sports or sports played with a ball, such as basketball, football, boxing, and volleyball, need to take extra precautions during orthodontic treatment. A potential blow to the face or jaw can lead to bracket breakage, wire fracture, and, more dangerously, serious soft tissue injuries to the cheeks or inside the lips. To minimize these risks, it is recommended that athletes use custom-made orthodontic mouthguards during training and matches. These mouthguards fit snugly over the brackets, cushioning both the teeth and surrounding tissues against impacts. Patients undergoing clear aligner treatment can safely manage this process by removing their aligners or using custom mouthguards as recommended by their doctor during sports activities.