If you’re an athlete, it’s vital to make sure that you’re taking every step you can to keep your smile safe. It can be all too easy for dental injuries to occur during contact or combat sports; you never know when you might suffer a sudden blow to the mouth or face that ends up damaging your teeth in some way. To make sure you’re prepared for the worst, here’s a closer look at 3 types of dental emergencies that athletes commonly experience as well as what you can do to avoid them.
1. Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but it can still be chipped or fractured by a strong enough impact. Not only can a damaged tooth cause significant discomfort, but it can also be susceptible to infection. In many cases, a chipped or cracked tooth can be repaired with a dental crown or another type of restoration.
2. Fractured Tooth Roots
Not all dental injuries are visible to the naked eye. A blow to your face from a certain angle can sometimes result in your tooth roots becoming fractured. In many cases, this type of injury can go undiscovered until an infection has already occurred. If that happens, you may need to have a root canal treatment performed in order to save your tooth. In severe cases where the tooth is beyond salvaging, an extraction could be required.
3. Knocked-Out Teeth
In the worst-case scenario, getting hit in the face could cause one of your teeth to be knocked out of your mouth entirely. This is a very serious dental emergency that needs to be treated immediately; you’ll have the best chance of saving your tooth if you get to the dentist’s office within an hour of the initial injury. If reimplanting the tooth is not possible, your dentist will likely recommend having it replaced. Leaving the space empty could have serious oral health consequences, such as alignment issues.
How Can You Avoid Dental Emergencies While Playing Sports?
The best thing you can do to minimize your risk of suffering a dental injury while playing sports is to wear a mouthguard. If there’s a sudden impact, your mouthguard will be able to absorb and redistribute the force, thereby keeping your teeth safe.
Even with a mouthguard, there’s still a chance that a dental emergency could occur while you’re on the field. If that happens, be sure to get in touch with your dentist as quickly as you can; the faster you act, the sooner you can get the care you need.
About the Author
Dr. Brandon Jewell went to Meharry Dental School, and he continues to expand his knowledge and skills via continuing education. He has completed advanced dental root canal training at Root Camp as well as implant training and certification through the McCracken Implant Institute. His practice, Family Dental Associates of Spring Hill, provides same-day visits for patients who need urgent care. If you’re suffering a dental emergency and need to request an appointment with Dr. Jewell right away, call (615) 302-1414.