Should You Remove Aligners for Practice?

You have just started your clear aligners journey, and questions like: Should you remove aligners for sports practice? Do I have to take out aligners for gym? Can you exercise with aligners? And what sports routine with aligners to follow? keep popping into your mind. No worries, this blog will resolve all your queries related to aligners and physical activities.

Aligners and Physical Activities

For non-contact sports like running, cycling, or going to the gym (no clenching or heavy contact), it’s generally safe to keep your aligners in. They won’t interfere with your performance and still keep your smile progress on track, as these sports don’t have any direct facial impacts. However, it is recommended to remove aligners and wear a custom mouthguard before playing contact sports like hockey, rugby, football, etc.

Just remember, time tracking matters. You need to wear your aligners for 20–22 hours a day to see results, so short workouts are fine, but avoid extended periods without them unless necessary.

Aligner Safety During Sports: What’s at Risk?

Aligners and physical activity don’t always go well together, especially during high-impact sports like football, rugby, or boxing, and aligner safety during sports becomes a real concern. Some of the common risks are listed below:

• Cracking from a sudden jaw impact
• Warping due to pressure or improper storage
• Losing your aligners during intense movements or falls

If you play contact sports, it’s best to remove your aligners and wear a custom mouth guard . This will protect your teeth and aligners, keeping your treatment on track.

What to Do If You Damage Your Aligners During Sports

If your aligners crack or warp during a sports session, don’t panic. Contact your orthodontist immediately. In the meantime, use your previous tray or the next one (if advised) to maintain your progress until a replacement arrives.

Creating a Sports Routine with Aligners

Building a consistent sports routine with aligners requires a little extra planning. Always carry your aligner case, so you can store them safely if you need to remove them for contact sports. Pack travel-sized cleaning tools to freshen up your trays post-workout. Hydration is key. Only drink plain water while your aligners are in. Sports drinks or protein shakes can stain or trap sugar under your trays, leading to decay or discoloration. After training, rinse or brush before reinserting your aligners to avoid trapping bacteria.

What Experts Recommend

Orthodontists recommend removing aligners for sports that involve facial contact to prevent aligner breakage or mouth injury. For regular gym sessions or cardio workouts, wearing aligners during training is typically fine. Your orthodontist will provide specific advice based on your treatment plan, but the general rule is: if you’re playing contact sports, remove aligners and wear a custom mouthguard, and for low-impact training, feel free to keep them in.

Importance of Wearing Mouth Guards

Many orthodontists recommend removing aligners and wearing a custom-made mouthguard before playing high-impact sports. Wearing a mouthguard prevents your teeth from injury. Many people ask if they can wear mouthguards over aligners. Standard mouthguards are not designed to be worn over aligners, which can affect both the protection and orthodontic progress. According to a 2019 study published in the National Library of Medicine , mouthguards significantly reduce the risk of dental trauma in contact sports, especially during collisions and falls.

ALIGNERCO Mouth Guard:

If you're active in high-contact sports, a reliable mouthguard is your best bet. ALIGNERCO offers mouth guards specially crafted for aligner users. ALIGNERCO mouth guards are designed for athletes of all ages, providing a protective barrier with enhanced impact resistance and long-lasting durability.

Why Choose Alignerco Mouth Guards?

• 4mm Thickness: Optimal thickness for protection and comfort.
• Custom Fit: Made from BPA-free plastic and tailored to your teeth.
• Impact-Resistant: Designed to withstand high-impact sports.
• Variety of Colors: Multiple options to choose from according to your taste.
• Includes Storage Case: To keep your mouth guard clean and secure.

Balancing Clear Aligners with Your Active Lifestyle

So, should you remove aligners for sports practice? The answer depends on your sport and how much physical contact it includes. When it comes to aligners and physical activity, low-impact workouts like jogging, cycling, or lifting weights are generally safe, and yes, you can exercise with aligners without disrupting your treatment.

But for contact sports, the risk of cracking, warping, or even losing your aligners increases. In such cases, orthodontists recommend you remove aligners for sports and switch to a custom guard for safety.

Also, building a solid sports routine with aligners is crucial, as it's all about knowing when to take them out, when to keep them in, and how to protect both your teeth and your treatment progress. Always consult your orthodontist for guidance tailored to your lifestyle. With the right care and habits, staying active while aligning your smile is absolutely doable.