Teenagers today are busier than ever — juggling school, social lives, and for many, sporting commitments. Whether it’s football, netball, martial arts, or basketball, many teens are involved in contact sports that pose risks to their teeth — especially during orthodontic treatment.
At Cumberland Dental, one of the most common questions we hear from parents is:
“Should my teen get braces or clear aligners (Invisalign) if they play a contact sport?”
Both options are effective, but they each come with unique pros and cons when it comes to comfort, safety, and lifestyle compatibility. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about clear aligners (Invisalign) vs braces for kids or sporty teens, and how to protect their smile while keeping treatment on track.
Why Sport Matters When Choosing Orthodontic Treatment
Sport is a fantastic way for teens to stay healthy, social, and confident — but it also increases the risk of mouth injuries. Add in an orthodontic appliance, and that risk can increase significantly without proper protection.
In Australia:
- Up to 39% of dental injuries in children are related to sporting activities
- However, only 36% of young athletes wear a mouthguard during contact sport
(Source: Australian Dental Association)
That’s a worrying gap — especially for teens with braces or aligners. Injuries to the teeth, lips, or gums can cause pain, delay treatment, and increase costs if appliances are damaged. That’s why the right choice of orthodontic treatment and sports safety gear is crucial.
What Are the Options? Braces vs Clear Aligners
Traditional Braces
Braces use brackets and wires fixed to the teeth to apply gentle pressure over time. They are one of the most effective ways to correct complex orthodontic problems such as:
- Severe crowding
- Overbites or underbites
- Crossbites
- Rotated or impacted teeth
They’re a great choice for teens needing more extensive correction — and they’re often more affordable than newer alternatives.
🔗Read More: Braces vs. Invisalign: Which is Right for You?
Clear Aligners (e.g. Invisalign)
Clear aligners are thin, removable trays made of medical-grade plastic that gradually shift teeth into place. They’re ideal for:
- Mild to moderate crowding
- Spacing issues
- Cosmetic alignment in a shorter timeframe
Because aligners are nearly invisible, they’re often preferred by teens who are self-conscious about appearance.
🔗Read More: Why Choose Invisalign for Your Teen’s Orthodontic Treatment?
Braces and Sport: What You Need to Know
Pros
- Always working: Since braces are fixed, they’re always doing their job — no worry about forgetting to wear them.
- Great for complex cases: More effective for major bite issues or rotated teeth.
- Budget-friendly: Often considered a low-cost braces/ orthodontics option in Adelaide, especially with our flexible payment plans.
Challenges
- Injury risk: A hit to the face can cause cuts to the lips or cheeks due to brackets and wires.
- Appliance damage: Brackets or wires can be bent or dislodged by impact — possibly delaying treatment.
- Special mouthguards required: You’ll need a custom mouthguard that fits over the braces to protect both the appliance and soft tissues.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign) and Sport: What You Need to Know
Pros
- Removable for sport: Aligners can be taken out during games and training, reducing risk of injury.
- More comfortable: No metal parts rubbing or poking the inside of the mouth.
- Easier to clean: Aligners can be removed for thorough cleaning after sport, improving oral hygiene.
Challenges
- Discipline required: Must be worn 20–22 hours a day to stay on schedule. Skipping wear time for sport can slow progress.
- Easily misplaced: Aligners can be lost if taken out and left on the sideline.
- Higher cost: Generally more expensive than braces — but we offer affordable Invisalign plans in Adelaide to make it accessible for families.
Comparing the Two for Sports-Active Teens
| Feature | Braces | Clear Aligners |
| Injury Risk During Sport | Moderate to High (need protective mouthguard) | Low (aligners can be removed during play) |
| Appliance Damage Risk | Brackets or wires may break | None when aligners are removed |
| Mouthguard Compatibility | Requires custom mouthguard for braces | Easier fit without aligners in |
| Treatment Compliance Needed | Low — appliance is fixed | High — must self-manage wear time |
| Suitability for Complex Cases | Excellent | Best for mild/moderate cases |
| Cost | Generally lower-cost option | Higher, but flexible payment plans available |
The Role of Mouthguards in Treatment
Regardless of appliance, a custom-fitted mouthguard is essential for any teen playing contact or collision sports.
Why custom?
- Better fit = better protection
- Less bulk = easier to speak and breathe
- Lasts longer than store-bought options
Over-the-counter mouthguards often don’t accommodate braces or allow enough space for comfort — especially during long games or tournaments. At Cumberland Dental, we offer mouthguards tailored for orthodontic patients.
Cost Considerations: Braces & Aligners (Invisalign) in Adelaide
At Cumberland Dental, we understand that affordability matters to Adelaide families.
That’s why we offer:
- Low-cost braces in Adelaide — starting with no upfront consultation cost
- Flexible payment plans (including no-interest options)
- Private health fund claims accepted
- No referral needed to see our orthodontic team
Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, we’ll help create a plan that works with your family’s lifestyle and budget.
🔗 Read More: Understanding the Braces Cost in Adelaide: Making Informed Decisions
Playing sport during orthodontic treatment is not only possible — it’s encouraged! With the right protection and treatment plan, your teen can enjoy the benefits of a straighter smile while staying active and confident on the field or court.
If you’re unsure whether clear aligners/Invisalign or braces are better for your child’s sporting lifestyle, book a consultation with Dr Jack at Cumberland Dental. We’ll provide expert advice tailored to your teen’s goals, schedule, and budget — whether you’re looking for low-cost orthodontics in Adelaide or flexible aligner options.
📞 Call us today on 08 8271 6233
