Invisalign® is a popular choice for teens who want to straighten their teeth without the hassle of traditional braces. The clear, removable aligners offer comfort, flexibility, and a less noticeable appearance. However, many parents and teens wonder if it’s still possible to participate in sports and extracurricular activities while wearing Invisalign®.
In this article, we’ll explore how Invisalign® works, its benefits, and how teens can safely continue their active lifestyles while undergoing treatment.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth. These aligners are custom-made to fit each individual’s teeth and are designed to be worn for around 22 hours a day. The aligners are removable, which means teens can take them out while eating, drinking, and brushing their teeth. This makes Invisalign® a convenient and discreet option compared to traditional metal braces.
Are there any age restrictions or requirements for teens using Invisalign®?
Benefits of Invisalign® for Teens
Invisalign® offers several advantages for teens. It’s less noticeable than traditional braces, making it ideal for those who are self-conscious about their appearance. The aligners are also comfortable, with no sharp wires or brackets that can irritate the gums. Additionally, since the aligners are removable, teens can continue to eat their favourite foods without restrictions, unlike braces that may require avoiding certain hard or sticky foods.
Another great benefit of Invisalign® is that it’s easy to maintain. Teens can simply remove their aligners to brush and floss their teeth, ensuring that their oral hygiene is not compromised during treatment.
Playing Sports with Invisalign®
Teens who play sports can absolutely continue their activities while wearing Invisalign®. However, there are some precautions to keep in mind. One concern for many active teens is whether the aligners will affect their performance or comfort during sports.
Is Aberdeen a good place for teens to begin their Invisalign journey?
1. Wearing Invisalign® During Sports
In most cases, it’s perfectly fine to wear Invisalign® while playing sports. The aligners are designed to be thin and lightweight, which should not interfere with the movement of the mouth or teeth. However, if the sport involves contact or risk of injury to the face, it’s important to remove the aligners to avoid any potential damage.
2. Use a Mouthguard for Protection
For teens involved in contact sports like football, basketball, or rugby, wearing a mouthguard is highly recommended. A mouthguard will help protect the teeth and the aligners from damage during physical activity. In fact, Invisalign® aligners can be worn with a mouthguard to provide extra protection. It’s also a good idea to remove the aligners during high-contact sports to prevent injury.
For non-contact sports such as running, swimming, or cycling, it is generally safe to wear Invisalign® while participating in these activities. The aligners will not hinder movement or cause discomfort during these types of exercises.
Can You Start Your Invisalign Treatment in Aberdeen Without a Referral?
Extracurricular Activities and Invisalign®
Aside from sports, many teens also participate in extracurricular activities such as music, drama, or dance. These activities involve speaking, singing, and physical movement, which might raise concerns about how Invisalign® will affect performance.
1. Singing and Speaking with Invisalign®
For teens involved in singing or speaking activities, such as drama or public speaking, the clear aligners might feel a little strange at first. However, most teens quickly adjust to speaking with Invisalign® in their mouths. The aligners are custom-made to fit the teeth snugly, so they shouldn’t interfere with speech once the teen has become accustomed to them.
If there is any discomfort when speaking or singing, it is usually temporary and disappears as the teen gets used to wearing the aligners. It’s important to wear the aligners for as many hours as possible each day, so the teen doesn’t miss out on their treatment schedule.
2. Dancing and Physical Movement with Invisalign®
For teens involved in dance or other physically demanding activities, wearing Invisalign® should not be an issue. Since the aligners are lightweight and fit securely over the teeth, they won’t fall out or cause discomfort while moving. However, as mentioned earlier, if there is a risk of facial injury, it is advisable to remove the aligners for protection.
Can You Get Invisalign with Missing Teeth?
Tips for Managing Invisalign® During Sports and Activities
Here are a few tips for teens to keep their Invisalign® treatment on track while continuing to enjoy sports and extracurricular activities:
1. Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
It’s essential to remove Invisalign® aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. This helps to avoid staining the aligners and protects the teeth from any food particles that might get trapped between the aligner and the teeth.
2. Carry a Case for Your Aligners
When removing the aligners for sports or activities, always carry a protective case to keep them safe. This will prevent the aligners from being damaged or misplaced during practice or events.
3. Clean Aligners Regularly
Since the aligners are removable, it’s easy to clean them. Make sure to rinse the aligners with water after every removal and brush them with a soft toothbrush. This will keep them free of bacteria and looking clear.
4. Stick to the Treatment Schedule
It’s important to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Teens should aim to wear their aligners as much as possible, even while engaging in sports or extracurricular activities. This ensures that the treatment progresses as planned and helps achieve the desired results within the expected timeframe.
Conclusion
Teens can absolutely continue playing sports and participating in extracurricular activities while wearing Invisalign®. The key is to be mindful of how the aligners fit into these activities and take precautions to protect the teeth and aligners when necessary. Whether playing sports, speaking, singing, or dancing, Invisalign® allows teens to stay active without compromising their treatment. For guidance, consult an experienced Invisalign dentist in Aberdeen to ensure the best care during your treatment journey.
If you’re looking to start your Invisalign® journey and continue to enjoy all your activities, contact Visage Orthodontics today. Our expert team is ready to help you achieve the perfect smile while maintaining your active lifestyle.
