Dental health is an integral part of your overall physical health. When it comes to orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering if there will be any issues with exercising while wearing braces or Invisalign. This is a valid concern, as exercising is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Fortunately, there are ways to manage the discomfort and keep your orthodontic treatment on track with minimal disruption.

There are two popular options for straightening your teeth: braces and Invisalign. The right dental professionals, such as Northstar dental clinic, can advise which procedure is right for you. Both of these treatments have their benefits and potential issues regarding exercising. In this article, we’ll explore the potential issues that can arise when wearing braces or Invisalign while exercising.

What are Braces and Invisalign?

Braces are a traditional orthodontic treatment using metal brackets and wires to move teeth into their desired position gradually. Invisalign, on the other hand, is a newer treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to move teeth gradually. Both treatments are effective, but what issues might arise if exercising while wearing them?

Potential Issues with Exercising with Braces or Invisalign

While you can wear braces and Invisalign during exercising, some potential issues can arise. Braces are more secure and less likely to move or come off during exercise. However, they can cause irritation and discomfort when exercising, as the metal brackets and wires can rub against the skin. Additionally, the brackets and wires can become loose if not properly secured.

Invisalign is more comfortable and less likely to cause irritation. Additionally, Invisalign aligners can be removed for certain activities, such as swimming or contact sports.

Tips for Exercising with Braces or Invisalign

When wearing braces or Invisalign, it is important to take extra care when exercising to avoid damage and discomfort. There are a few tips that can help make the experience more comfortable. First, wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect the braces or aligners from damage.

It’s important to have water on hand when exercising, regardless of whether you have braces. But if you wear braces or Invisalign, water is even more essential. A dry mouth is a haven for plaque, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease affects almost half of the adults in the US over the age of 30.

Additionally, it is important to ensure your braces or Invisalign are cleaned with a soft toothbrush after every workout to avoid bacteria buildup. Invisalign can easily be removed during exercise, but it’s important to store it in a secure location so you don’t lose it. Don’t just toss the aligners into your gym bag during your workout.

High-impact activities such as contact sports, running, and jumping should be avoided as they can cause damage to your braces or Invisalign. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga are much safer and can be done without fear of damaging your braces or Invisalign.

Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but many people hesitate to hit the gym when wearing braces or Invisalign. After all, the thought of working out with metal in your mouth or a plastic aligner can be daunting. However, with the proper precautions and a little knowledge, exercising without any issues is possible.