Can Teens Play Sports with Aligners?

If you’re a teen with aligners and you’re into sports, you’ve probably wondered: Do I really need to take these off whenever I play? The good news is, you don’t need to remove your aligners every time you play. Clear aligners are designed to be worn most of the day, and playing sports with them can be totally manageable, with the right precautions. Understanding how sports with aligners work can help you protect both your teeth and your treatment progress.

In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about wearing aligners during physical activity, which sports are safe to play with them in, when to switch to a mouthguard with aligners, and how to stay on track while staying active.

Wearing Aligners During Physical Activity

So, can you wear aligners while playing sports? Yes, you can wear aligners for non-contact sports, but it is recommended to wear custom-made mouth guards for high-contact sports.

Aligners and Non-Contact Sports

One of the best perks of clear aligners is that they are made from clear, smooth, and durable plastic that allows you to wear them comfortably during non-contact sports like running, cycling, and swimming. These sports don’t carry any high risk of facial impacts, so your aligners stay safe and your treatment continues uninterrupted. Make sure to rinse them after every workout, especially if you are sweating a lot or drinking sports drinks.

Aligners and Contact Sports

It is recommended to remove your aligners and wear a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth while playing high-contact sports like cricket, football, basketball, or hockey, as these sports involve a higher chance of getting hit in the face, which can damage your aligners or even cause injury.

Clear Aligners for Teens

Clear aligners are a great option for teens at any stage of their dental journey. They offer a modern way to fix mild to moderate dental issues from the comfort of your home. Clear aligners are easy for teens to wear at school as they’re barely visible and far more comfortable than metal braces. They are a great choice for those who are self-conscious about their smile. The discreet design of clear aligners allows you to wear them anytime, whether you're playing non-contact sports or hanging out with friends, so your treatment continues without interruption.

ALIGNERCO Clear Aligners

Looking for affordable clear aligners for your teen? ALIGNERCO has got you covered. ALIGNERCO clear aligners are a great option for your teens as they’re made from BPA-free , medical-grade plastic, designed for a snug yet comfortable fit. Most teens adapt within the first week, making the smile transition smoother than with traditional metal braces.

Mouthguard with Aligners – Do You Need One?

You might be wondering if you can wear a mouthguard over aligners. In short, no, it is not recommended. Wearing a mouthguard with aligners can be risky, and you can end up damaging your aligner, mouthguard, or both. So, what’s the right move? Removing aligners and wearing mouth guards while playing high-contact games is recommended. Standard orthodontic mouthguards aren’t designed to fit over clear aligners, and doing so might interfere with both your protection and your orthodontic progress.

While clear aligners are perfect for helping your teeth move into alignment, they do not offer the protective cushioning required for sports. Therefore, it is best to invest in a mouth guard made from flexible materials that offer solid protection against injury.

Teen Aligner Safety Tips for Sports

Playing non-contact sports with clear aligners is totally doable, as long as you follow a few simple precautions. Here are some essential teen aligner safety tips to protect your smile on and off the field:

Carry Your Case Always

Whether you’re playing football with clear aligners, tennis, or track, always keep your aligner case nearby. You’ll need it if you take your aligners out during intense activity.

Avoid Sugary Sports Drinks

Sugary drinks can get trapped under your aligners, increasing the risk of cavities. Stick to water or remove your aligners before sipping anything sweet.

Replace Damaged Aligners Quickly

If you notice cracks or warping after a game, contact your provider right away. Damaged aligners can disrupt your progress or cause discomfort.

Balancing Sports and Straight Teeth for Your Teen Is Possible

For non-contact sports, aligners can stay in comfortably, keeping treatment on track without disrupting their routine. For high-contact sports, it's best to remove them and switch to a custom mouthguard for added safety. With tips like rinsing after games, avoiding sugary sports drinks, and carrying an aligner case, teens can stay protected and confident both on and off the field. The discreet, pain-free design of clear aligners for teens makes them an ideal choice to wear during non-contact physical activities. And if your teen prefers a more rigorous contact sport, a specialized orthodontic mouthguard is the way to go.

Just remember: Staying active doesn't mean compromising treatment. With smart choices and ALIGNERCO’s trusted aligners , your teen can keep moving, smiling, and progressing every step of the way.