Can Athletes Play Sports with Braces in Johnson City, TN?

Worried braces will sideline your season at Science Hill or ETSU? We promise they won’t.

At Sturgill Orthodontics, we understand your concerns. Every season, we help hundreds of athletes across Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and Gray continue playing football, basketball, soccer, tennis, baseball, softball, track, swimming, and wrestling – all while straightening their teeth with us.

Here’s what we tell every athlete and parent who walks into our office: You can play virtually any sport with braces. The key is knowing what to expect and how to protect your investment in your smile.

In this guide, we’ll share:

• Exactly how braces and Invisalign work with your athletic schedule
• Which sports require special protection and which don’t
• How we handle bracket emergencies during games
• Real advice from Tri-Cities athletes we’ve treated
• When we recommend starting treatment around your competitive season

Schedule Your Free Sports & Orthodontics Consultation

Quick Answer: Yes—You Can Play Sports with Braces in Johnson City

TL;DR for busy families: 

• Play most sports safely with proper precautions and mouthguards\
• Use orthodontic mouthguards for contact sports like football and wrestling
• We offer same-day emergency fixes when sports injuries happen

Advice by our board-certified orthodontists at Sturgill Orthodontics.

Playing Sports with Braces: What Johnson City Athletes Can Expect (Weeks 1–4)

When you first get braces at our Johnson City office, here’s what we want you to expect:

Week 1-2: Your mouth adjusts to the braces. You might notice them more during hard breathing or if you take a hit during games at Kingsport’s J. Fred Johnson Stadium or Science Hill’s Memorial Stadium, or during practice at Liberty Bell or Indian Trail middle schools.

Week 3-4: You start forgetting they’re there during practice at local recreation centers or school gyms.

Month 2 and beyond: You’ll wonder why you stressed about it.

We’re consistently surprised by how quickly our Johnson City area athletes adapt. Your swing doesn’t change whether you’re playing baseball at Fun Fest Park or tennis at Keystone Athletic Club. 

Your jump shot stays the same. We’ve helped athletes play football with braces throughout Johnson City – it’s just as manageable as any other sport with proper protection.

What We Tell Our Contact Sport Athletes About Braces

For Football, Wrestling, Basketball, Soccer, and Softball Players:

When we treat Science Hill football players, David Crockett wrestling teams, basketball players, and soccer teams throughout the area, we always emphasize that you need a mouthguard designed for braces. 

The generic ones from Dick’s Sporting Goods won’t work – they don’t fit correctly over brackets.

Here’s what we want you to know: The real risk isn’t playing sports with braces – it’s a broken bracket during practice or local school games.

 It happens, but it’s not season-ending. Quick appointment at our Johnson City office, quick fix, back to practice. Learn more about what to do if your braces break during sports activities.

Schedule Your Consultation

Invisalign for Athletes: When It’s the Better Play

Many of our patients who are tennis players at Keystone Athletic Club, ETSU athletes, golfers at Pine Oaks or Ridgefields Country Club, and swimmers at the Wellness Center choose Invisalign with us. Here’s why we often recommend it for athletes:

Remove them for games. Pop them out for matches at local facilities, games at Freedom Hall, tournaments at area golf courses, or swim meets, wear a regular mouthguard if needed, then put them back in after. Store aligners in a ventilated case—never in a napkin or pocket (most lost-aligner incidents!).

No dietary restrictions. Eat whatever you want before games without worrying about breaking brackets.

Easier oral hygiene. Important when you’re drinking sports drinks between sets or grabbing food at the campus dining halls.

The reality we share with patients: You need to wear them 20-22 hours daily. Miss too much time during busy school weeks or tournament weekends and your treatment stalls.

How We Help You Choose: Braces vs Invisalign for Tri-Cities Athletes

When families visit our office, we help them understand the difference:

What we typically recommend for Science Hill football players: Traditional braces. They can’t get knocked out during a tackle against Daniel Boone.

What we often suggest for local tennis players: Invisalign, if you’re disciplined about wearing them between matches but braces do the job just as well. Both are great options!

Sport-Specific Guidance We Give Our Patients

Science Hill/Daniel Boone Football:

Most Big Seven Conference players we treat choose traditional braces. They can’t get knocked out during Friday night games, and custom mouthguards work great under Memorial Stadium lights.

Local Youth Basketball:

We find either option works. Many of our patients from Liberty Bell and Indian Trail middle schools, as well as local high schools, prefer Invisalign for school photos and team pictures.

Johnson City Soccer:

Since this is a contact sport with head-to-head collisions, most of our patients choose traditional braces with proper mouthguards.

Local Tennis Players:

We often recommend Invisalign for teens here. Remove for tournaments, back in for daily wear. But many tennis players choose braces too. Both are great options and the great part is you get to choose!

ETSU Athletics:

Our Division I athletes often prefer traditional braces for reliability during conference tournaments.

Local Swimming Teams:

We tell our swimmers either works great at area pools. Chlorine won’t hurt either option.

Science Hill Baseball/Softball:

What we’ve noticed: catchers typically choose braces, outfielders often go Invisalign for senior pictures.

Local Golf:

Invisalign is popular with our golfers at Pine Oaks and Ridgefields since there’s no contact risk.

Track and Field:

We find either option works perfectly for our runners and field event athletes.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Combat Sports and Braces: What We Tell Our Boxing, Wrestling, and MMA Athletes

We treat combat sports athletes in Johnson City, and they face unique challenges. Here’s what we tell them:

Boxing with Braces at Local Gyms

Yes, you can box with braces, but we want you to have specialized equipment:

Double mouthguards are what we recommend for boxing – they protect both upper and lower teeth. Single guards leave bottom braces exposed during sparring.

Custom-fitted guards work better than boil-and-bite for combat sports. We can create boxing-specific mouthguards that accommodate braces movement as your treatment progresses.

Training modifications: Some coaches recommend avoiding heavy sparring for the first 2-3 weeks after we place your braces while your mouth adjusts.

Wrestling and Grappling Sports

We work with local high school wrestling programs and MMA gyms to help athletes with braces succeed:

• Lip guards prevent braces from cutting soft tissue during takedowns
• Regular mouthguard checks – wrestling puts different pressure on mouthguards than other sports
• Communication with coaches about adjustment periods and our emergency protocols

Martial Arts Considerations

We love treating karate, taekwondo, and other martial arts athletes in Johnson City:

• Lower contact risk than boxing or wrestling
• Standard orthodontic mouthguards usually sufficient
• Focus on technique rather than heavy sparring during adjustment period

Game-Day Emergencies: Fast Fixes & How to Reach Us

Sports happen. Sometimes brackets pop off during games at Science Hill or practices at Daniel Boone. Here’s what we want you to know about our emergency protocol:

During Competition

• Assess the situation: Can you continue safely?
• Use orthodontic wax if something’s sharp or poking (we give this to all our athletes)
• Stay hydrated – braces can cause dry mouth during intense activity
• Have a teammate check for visible damage if you can’t

What to Do After an Impact: Step-by-Step

If you take a hit during a game at Science Hill or local competition:

1. Stop and assess – Check for loose teeth, bleeding, or sharp edges
2. Cover sharp areas with orthodontic wax if needed
3. Finish the game safely if no severe damage
4. Call us immediately after – (423) 528-9931
5. Document with photos to help us understand the damage

For severe injuries: Seek medical attention first, then contact us for orthodontic repair.

Emergency Kit We Recommend for Our Athletes

We tell all our Johnson City athletes to carry:

• Orthodontic wax (small container – we provide this)
• Small mirror
• Our contact info: (423) 528-9931
• Backup mouthguard if possible

Does Your Athlete Need Braces? Talk To Us Today!

After the Game

Call us at (423) 528-9931 – we offer same-day emergency appointments for Tri-Cities athletes. Get detailed guidance on handling orthodontic emergencies during sports.

Don’t: Try to fix it yourself with pliers from your garage. We’ve seen this disaster from panicked parents before Big Seven Conference championships.

Document what happened – take photos if there’s damage, note the time and type of impact. This helps us understand what happened when you come in.

When We Tell Athletes to Stop Playing vs. Continue

We want you to stop immediately if:

• Severe pain or bleeding
• Loose teeth
• Bent or broken wires causing cuts
• Missing brackets that create sharp edges

Usually safe to continue:

• Minor bracket loosening without pain
• Slight wire irritation that wax can cover
• Cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect function

Our team of four orthodontists understands Johnson City sports schedules. Broken bracket before the regional championship at Science Hill? We’ll work you in so you don’t miss it.

Mouthguard Guide: What We Recommend for Our Johnson City Athletes

Choosing the right mouthguard can make or break your sports experience with braces. Here’s what we recommend:

Mouthguard Options: Custom vs. Boil-and-Bite

Custom Mouthguards (Made at Our Office) 

• Perfect fit for your specific braces
• Adjustable as teeth move during treatment
• Maximum protection and comfort
• Professional guidance on proper use

Ready for the best protection? Schedule a custom mouthguard fitting during your next appointment with us.

Regular (Non-Orthodontic) Boil and Bite Mouthguards (We don’t recommend these for braces)

• Don’t accommodate brackets properly
• Can actually damage braces during impact
• May interfere with tooth movement

We Recommend Getting Orthodontic Mouthguards in our Office

• Custom-fitted during your regular appointment
• Adjusted as your teeth move
• Emergency replacement available

Cleaning and Maintenance – What We Tell Our Patients

Daily Care:

• Rinse before and after each use
• Brush with soft toothbrush and mild soap
• Let air dry completely before storing

Deep Cleaning:

• Soak in denture cleaner weekly
• Replace if cracked, torn, or loose-fitting
• Get new fitting as teeth move (typically every 3-4 months during your treatment)

Athletes also need to maintain excellent oral hygiene during treatment. Check out our guide to brushing with braces for detailed instructions.

Storage Tips:

• Use ventilated case (prevents bacterial growth)
• Keep away from heat (car dashboards, direct sunlight)
• Bring backup to tournaments and away games

Get Braces For Your Athelete

Specific Sports Considerations We Share with Our Athletes

Water Sports and Swimming

What we tell our swimmers about pool chemistry:

• Chlorine won’t damage braces or Invisalign
• Rinse mouth after swimming to remove pool chemicals
• Store Invisalign in proper case, not poolside

Diving and Water Polo:

• Higher contact risk – we recommend orthodontic mouthguards
• Consider goggle strap position to avoid hitting braces

Baseball and Softball Specifics

Position Matters (what we’ve learned from our athletes):

• Catchers: We always recommend orthodontic mouthguards, consider face mask modifications
• Fielders: Standard orthodontic protection usually sufficient
• Pitchers/Batters: Focus on communication signals with teammates

Equipment Considerations:

• Batting helmets may feel different initially with braces
• Catching gear should accommodate mouthguard properly

Track and Field

Throwing Events:

• Usually no mouthguard needed
• Stay hydrated during competitions
• Be aware of dry mouth during long meets

Running Events:

• Braces rarely interfere with performance
• Some of our athletes prefer orthodontic wax for long distances
• Invisalign athletes can remove aligners for races

Cheerleading and Dance

Aesthetic Considerations:

• Clear braces or Invisalign popular with our teams for photos
• We coordinate with coaches about performance schedules

Stunt Safety:

• Base positions may need orthodontic mouthguards
• Communication crucial during complex routines
• We provide emergency protocols for competitions

Wrestling Unique Considerations

Skin Contact Sports:

• We emphasize extra attention to oral hygiene (keeping your mouth clean) since you’re sharing mats and in close contact with other athletes
• Mouthguard must stay secure during grappling
• Lip guards prevent braces from cutting during takedowns

Weight Classes:

• Some athletes worry braces add weight (they don’t meaningfully)
• We help maintain proper nutrition despite dietary restrictions (foods to avoid) with braces

What We Tell Athletes About Performance: Do Braces Affect Athletic Ability?

Here’s what we tell every athlete who visits our office:

Johnson City athletes consistently tell us they experience no performance issues. Some actually feel better after starting treatment with us.

Some of our patients tell us they breathe easier after treatment when their bite aligns properly (when teeth fit together correctly), which can be helpful during games at Memorial Stadium or workouts at the ETSU Wellness Center. Individual results vary.

Increased confidence: Hard to play your best when you’re self-conscious about your smile in team photos at Science Hill or ETSU group shots.

Improved oral health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, which matters when you’re drinking sports drinks between classes or grabbing snacks before practice.

When We Recommend Starting Orthodontic Treatment

Best time to start with us: Off-season gives you adjustment time before Big Seven Conference competition or conference tournaments.

Can you start mid-season? Absolutely. Just expect a week or two of adjustment during practice at local facilities, whether you’re at Science Hill, Liberty Bell, Indian Trail, or any other local school.

Championship season? Your call. Most of our Science Hill and ETSU athletes adapt quickly, but some prefer to wait until after regional playoffs.

We Were Voted The Best Orthodontist in Johnson City. Get Your Consultation Today!

The Sturgill Orthodontics Advantage for Athletes

Unlike single-doctor practices, we offer unique advantages for busy Johnson City athletes:

Board-Certified Orthodontists

Our team approach means more appointment availability around your sports schedule. If your regular doctor isn’t available before the big game, another equally qualified orthodontist can see you.

Multiple Convenient Locations

Train at different facilities? We have offices in Johnson City, Bristol, and Norton, VA for maximum convenience. We also serve athletes from Kingsport and surrounding areas.

Emergency Care Understanding

We know sports emergencies happen. Broken bracket before the Science Hill vs. Daniel Boone rivalry game? We’ll get you fixed and back on the field.

Flexible Scheduling

With four doctors and three locations, we offer more appointment times than any other orthodontic practice in the Tri-Cities – perfect for busy student-athletes.

The athletes who wait until after graduation? They usually regret not starting during high school in Johnson City.

How We Help You Decide as a Local Athlete

We typically recommend traditional braces if:

• You play contact sports like football or basketball
• You want treatment that works consistently during busy sports seasons
• Your case needs comprehensive correction
• You’re worried about losing aligners during games or travel

We often suggest Invisalign if:

• You play non-contact sports like tennis or golf
• Aesthetics matter for your sport (dance teams, cheerleaders)
• You’re disciplined about wearing them during busy schedules
• You want flexibility for photos and special events

Your Game Plan for Orthodontic Treatment with Us

Ready to play for Science Hill, Liberty Bell, Indian Trail, or local recreational leagues while getting your perfect smile? Here’s how we help:

Step 1: Schedule a free consultation at our Johnson City office to discuss your sport and competition schedule with our team

Step 2: Ask us about protection options for football or basketball games – we’ll guide you

Step 3: We’ll help plan your start date around Big Seven Conference playoffs or conference tournaments

Step 4: Get our emergency contact for game-day issues: (423) 528-9931

Don’t let orthodontic treatment sit on the bench while you wait for the “perfect” time. Every season you wait is another season of team photos at Science Hill or ETSU where you’re not confident in your smile.

Schedule Your Free Athletic Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions Our Johnson City Athletes Ask

Can I wear a mouthguard with Invisalign?

Yes. Remove aligners for games, use a standard athletic mouthguard, then put aligners back in right after. This gives you the flexibility of regular mouthguards while protecting your teeth during sports.

Do I need a special mouthguard for braces?

For contact sports, yes—choose an orthodontic or custom guard that fits over brackets without restricting tooth movement. Regular mouthguards can actually damage braces during impact.

What if a bracket breaks during a game?

Cover any sharp area with orthodontic wax and call (423) 528-9931. We offer same-day athletic repairs when possible to get you back in the game quickly.

Can I start treatment mid-season?

Absolutely. Expect a 1–2 week adjustment period; we’ll time appointments around practices and meets. Most of our athletes adapt quickly regardless of when they start with us.

Are double mouthguards better for boxing or wrestling?

They protect both upper and lower arches and are commonly recommended for combat sports. We can create custom double guards that fit properly with your braces for maximum protection.

How fast can you fix a broken bracket?

Most bracket repairs take 15-20 minutes during a regular appointment. For sports emergencies, we often offer same-day fixes so you don’t miss important games or practices.

Why Johnson City Athletes Choose Our Team

Dr. Jeremiah Sturgill, Dr. Allison Williams, Dr. Anne Harper, and Dr. Emma Anderson have worked with hundreds of student-athletes from Science Hill High School, Daniel Boone High School, David Crockett High School, University High, ETSU, and Milligan University. 

As Board-Certified Orthodontists serving Johnson City and the Tri-Cities, we understand that sports don’t pause for orthodontic treatment.

Quick emergency appointments for sports-related issues during tournament season

Flexible scheduling around practice schedules and game times across our three locations

Experience with local athletes from youth recreation leagues to Division I competition

Modern treatment options including traditional braces and Invisalign

Team-Based Approach: Four orthodontists collaborating on complex cases means better results for serious athletes

Johnson City Office Location: 

801 Sunset Dr., Suite E5
Johnson City, TN 37604 – convenient to Science Hill, ETSU campus, and downtown Johnson City

Phone: (423) 528-9931

Hours:

• Mon – Wed: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Thu: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

We proudly serve student-athletes throughout Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, Gray, Jonesborough, Elizabethton, and all of Washington County.

Posted by Sturgill Orthodontics