Invisalign and Sports: Do You Wear Invisalign While Playing Sports?

Do you wear Invisalign while playing sports? Many of our patients at My Dentist Burbank ask this. Invisalign is a great option for straightening your teeth, but what about when you’re out on the field? The good news is, you can wear Invisalign during most sports. However, for contact sports, it’s a good idea to remove your aligners and wear a mouthguard instead. In non-contact sports, like running or swimming, you can comfortably keep your Invisalign in place. Let’s learn how to protect your teeth while enjoying your favorite activities.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign works by using clear aligners to slowly move your teeth into the right position. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, making them more convenient for daily activities like eating and brushing. You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks before switching to the next set. 

Over time, this gradually shifts your teeth into alignment. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign attachments have no metal wires or brackets, making them more comfortable for most people. The treatment is also custom-made, so each aligner is designed specifically for your teeth. Regular check-ins with your dentist ensure the treatment is working as planned.

What sporting activities can you wear your Invisalign with?

You can wear your Invisalign aligners during many types of sports, especially non-contact activities where there’s little risk of injury to your teeth or mouth. Here are some sports you can safely play while wearing your Invisalign:

• Running or Jogging: Invisalign won’t interfere with your performance, making it great for these activities.
• Swimming: Since Invisalign is clear and removable, it’s perfect for water-based activities like swimming.
• Cycling: You can comfortably wear your aligners while biking, whether for leisure or competitive racing.
• Yoga and Pilates: Invisalign won’t distract you from focusing on your form or flexibility.
• Tennis and Badminton: These low-contact sports are ideal for wearing Invisalign without worry.
• Golf: Invisalign aligners won’t affect your swing or concentration while out on the course.

When Should I Take My Aligners Out When Playing Sports?

In some sports, it’s better to remove your Invisalign aligners to protect your teeth and the aligners. Here are some sports where you should take your aligners out and use a mouthguard instead:

• Football: High-contact sport, where hits can damage both your teeth and aligners.
• Basketball: There’s a risk of physical contact, so taking out your aligners is a good idea.
• Boxing or Martial Arts: Direct hits to the face make it unsafe to wear Invisalign during these sports.
• Hockey: The fast pace and physical contact mean you should wear a mouthguard instead of Invisalign.
• Rugby: Similar to football, it’s a high-impact sport where mouthguards are needed for protection.

In all these sports, you can put your aligners back in after the game to continue your treatment safely.

Invisalign Mouthguard

Although we suggest removing your aligners during high-contact sports, there are times when Invisalign mouthguard benefits can overlap. For non-contact sports, Invisalign can provide a light protective barrier for your teeth. However, remember that it’s not a replacement for a proper mouthguard.

If you play high-contact sports, it’s important to use both Invisalign and mouthguards. While Invisalign aligns your teeth, a mouthguard provides the necessary protection from impacts. In some cases, your dentist may even create a custom mouthguard to work with your Invisalign, giving you the best of both worlds. Always prioritize safety by using an appropriate Invisalign mouthguard combination during contact sports.

How Does Invisalign Benefits Athletes?

Here are some reasons why athletes typically choose Invisalign:

• Comfort: Invisalign is smooth and doesn’t cause irritation like braces, making it comfortable during sports.
• Removable: Athletes can take Invisalign out when needed, especially for high-contact sports that require mouthguards.
• No Metal Wires: Invisalign has no sharp edges or wires that could cut the mouth during physical activity.
• Discreet Appearance: Athletes often prefer the clear look of Invisalign over the noticeable metal of braces.
• Easy to Clean: Invisalign can be easily removed for cleaning, making it convenient for busy athletes.
• Fewer Dietary Restrictions: Unlike braces, Invisalign allows athletes to eat whatever they like by simply removing the aligners.

Tips for Protecting Your Invisalign Aligners While Playing Sports

Here are some helpful tips for protecting your Invisalign aligners while playing sports:

• Use a case: Always store your Invisalign aligners in a protective case when not wearing them during sports.
• Remove them for contact sports: Take out your Invisalign aligners when playing high-contact sports to prevent damage.
• Wear a mouthguard: For contact sports, use a mouthguard to protect your teeth while keeping your aligners safe.
• Rinse after games: After playing, rinse your mouth and Invisalign aligners before putting them back in.
• Avoid heat exposure: Don’t expose your Invisalign aligners to high heat, as it can cause them to warp.

Following these tips will help keep your Invisalign aligners in great shape while staying active in sports.

Conclusion

Invisalign offers a flexible and comfortable solution for athletes who want to straighten teeth while staying active. Whether you’re running, swimming, or cycling, Invisalign allows you to enjoy your favorite sports without much interruption. However, for high-contact sports, it’s important to remove your aligners and use a mouthguard to protect your teeth. By following simple tips for protecting your aligners, you can ensure that your treatment stays on track.

At My Dentist Burbank, we’re committed to your overall oral health, offering services like preventive dentistry to keep your teeth healthy and strong. If you ever experience a dental injury while playing sports, we’re also here for you with our emergency dentistry services. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and keep your smile protected on and off the field!