Ireland head coach Andy Farrell famously said “Sport can be cruel sometimes — I guess that's why we love it." No matter how harsh the game can be — we grin and bear it. Sometimes sport plays back, and other people or objects can come into contact with your teeth. We’ll discuss common sporting injuries and how to prevent them, what gear to choose for the ultimate protection of your teeth and gums, and what to do if you experience an accident during sport. Read on to save your smile from potential risks.
Common Dental Injuries in Sports
Participating in sports is so heart-pounding that potential negative consequences might drop out of your mind. However, many contact sports such as boxing, ice hockey, football, and baseball can put your mouth at risk. Here are some widespread sporting injuries:
Even if you win a match, the taste of your victory might be spoiled when you can’t smile widely. Luckily, some expert dental tips can help you avoid this uninspiring outcome.
Importance of Using a Mouthguard
According to the research, the risk of getting dental trauma for athletes equals 14–70%, especially in popular contact sports. A mouthguard was specially designed to shield your mouth from the direct impact of another player or object. This piece of athletic equipment is indispensable for sports that involve body contact, falls, or fast-moving objects.
If you are involved in any regular sport, your gums, teeth, and tongue become vulnerable to damage. Acquire a mouthguard for:
Don’t wait for an emergency to ask your dentist for a mouthguard. Without professional examination and precise impressions of your mouth, you can’t get a personalized mouthguard. This dental appliance will fit comfortably in your mouth and efficiently protect your teeth and gums from hazards during sports activities.
You can’t use a ready mouthguard commonly displayed in online stores. The consequences aren’t worth it:
Other Protective Gear for Oral Safety
Except for a custom-fitted mouthguard, you should wear a headgear designed for your particular sport to avoid damaging your teeth and gums:
No matter whether you compete or simply practice, wearing a robust helmet is paramount to care for your oral health when playing sports.
What to Do if You Experience a Dental Injury
In case you experience any sport-related mouth injury, address an emergency dentist in Queens NY, or the professional you entirely trust. Don’t postpone your visit for the indefinite future: you might not manage to assess all the damage done to your teeth. Traumatic dental injuries can seem mild but they might require immediate treatment. Though a slightly chipped tooth can wait for a dental appointment, you have to act swiftly to save a knocked-out tooth.
These actionable tips will help you endure your condition while you are waiting for qualified medical attention:
Mouth pain: take over-the-counter pain relievers. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen will help you feel better.
Swelling. Apply an ice pack for soothing.
Fractured tooth: collect the broken pieces and take them to a dental office. If a damaged tooth has jagged edges, cover them with orthodontic wax available at most pharmacies. This way, they won’t irritate your tongue.
Knocked-out tooth: don’t panic and rinse the lost tooth in clean water, holding it by the crown. Then try to carefully locate it back in its socket. If you can’t, put it beside your cheek or into a cup of milk and rush to your dentist. If you manage to make it in 30 to 40 minutes, the doctor will have the chance to replant the tooth. This method proves successful in the majority of cases, but you might need more dental treatment in the future.
Enjoy Sports & Keep Your Smile Safe
Maintaining good oral health is crucial while engaging in any kind of sport: your natural teeth are your inborn asset. Mild and severe dental traumas are common in sports, but it doesn’t mean you have to prolong this tradition and invite emergencies into your life. Instead, forearm yourself with a custom-fit mouthguard and a sturdy helmet to secure your teeth, jaws, gums, tongue, and lips from unexpected incidents. With sufficient protection, you can immerse in your favorite sports activities without worrying about your oral health.
