Sports Injuries and Your Teeth: Prevention and Treatment

Sports are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, building confidence, teamwork, and physical fitness. However, they also carry risk of injury, and the teeth and mouth are among the most commonly injured areas in athletic activities. The good news is that dental sports injuries are almost entirely preventable with the right protective equipment. A properly fitted mouthguard reduces the risk of tooth injury dramatically. If an injury does occur, knowing how to respond can determine whether you save your tooth or lose it.

The Frequency of Sports-Related Dental Injuries

Every year, thousands of dental injuries occur in sports. Football, basketball, hockey, baseball, soccer, rugby, and combat sports like boxing and wrestling account for the majority of injuries. Even in sports that do not seem to have contact potential, like skateboarding and cycling, dental injuries happen. A blow to the face, a collision with another player, a fall onto the ground, or an impact from equipment can chip, crack, or knock out a tooth. Jaw fractures, soft tissue injuries, and lip lacerations are also common.

The unfortunate reality is that many of these injuries are suffered by young athletes whose permanent teeth are still relatively new and vital. An injury that happens at age 12 can affect dental health for the rest of life.

Types of Mouthguards

A stock mouthguard is the most affordable option. You buy it off the shelf in a sporting goods store. It is uncomfortable, interferes with speech, and does not provide an optimal fit. However, it is better than nothing.

A boil-and-bite mouthguard is made of a thermoplastic material. You boil it in hot water and bite down on it while it is soft, allowing it to partially conform to your teeth. This option is more comfortable than a stock guard and provides a better fit. It is relatively affordable and available at most sporting goods stores.

A custom mouthguard is made by your dentist. An impression of your teeth is taken, and the guard is fabricated specifically for your mouth. A custom guard provides the best fit, the most comfort, and the greatest protection. While more expensive than other options, a custom mouthguard from Dr. Bonin at Bonin Dental Care offers superior comfort and protection and is the best choice for anyone who plays contact sports regularly.

Protecting Your Teeth

If you play any contact sport or any sport with risk of falls or collisions, wear a mouthguard. Wear it every single time you practice or compete, not just during games. Injuries happen in practice just as often as in competition. Make sure your mouthguard fits correctly and covers all of your upper teeth and part of your gums. It should be snug but not painfully tight.

Clean your mouthguard regularly with cool water and mild soap. Store it in a ventilated case, never in a plastic bag where moisture encourages mold growth. Inspect it for cracks or tears. If it is damaged, replace it.

If you wear a mouthguard custom made by Dr. Bonin, you have the added benefit of one that was designed specifically for your mouth, your sport, and your needs. Ask Dr. Bonin about the best type of guard for your particular activity.

Wear a properly fitted helmet as well. A helmet protects your head and face and reduces the chance of direct impact to your teeth. Some sports require helmets by rule, but even if a helmet is not required, wearing one is a smart choice.

What to Do If You Injure Your Tooth

If you suffer a blow to the face and notice tooth pain, swelling, visible damage to a tooth, or loose teeth, stop playing immediately. Check for other injuries. Rinse your mouth gently with cool water. If there is bleeding, bite on gauze to control it. Apply ice on the outside of your face to reduce swelling.

If you have lost a tooth, refer to the guidance for a knocked-out tooth. The same principles apply. Preserve the tooth in milk or saliva and get to a dentist immediately.

If a tooth is cracked or chipped but still in place, save any pieces you can find and contact Dr. Bonin for an urgent appointment. If you cannot see Dr. Bonin immediately, follow the steps outlined for broken or chipped teeth to protect the tooth and manage pain.

Treatment After an Injury

Dr. Bonin will examine the injured tooth or teeth, take X-rays to assess damage, and develop a treatment plan. For a simple chip or crack, a filling may be all that is needed. For a more significant fracture, a crown may be necessary. If a tooth is knocked out, we will attempt reimplantation if the tooth arrives in good condition.

For damage that extends to the nerve inside the tooth, root canal therapy becomes necessary. This removes the damaged or infected nerve tissue and allows the tooth to be saved.

In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary, followed by discussion of replacement options like a dental implant.

Recovery and Follow-Up

After treatment of a sports-related dental injury, follow any post-care instructions from Dr. Bonin carefully. Avoid contact sports for a period of time if needed to allow healing to progress. When you return to your sport, make sure you are wearing a protective mouthguard and helmet.

If you have sustained a significant injury, periodic follow-up appointments may be needed to monitor healing and ensure that the treated tooth is recovering properly.

Getting Your Custom Mouthguard

If you play sports and do not have a custom mouthguard, contact Bonin Dental Care to schedule a consultation. Dr. Bonin will evaluate your needs, discuss your sport and the specific risks, and create a mouthguard tailored to you. A custom-made mouthguard is an investment in protection that can prevent an injury that might otherwise cause you to lose a tooth.

The prevention of a sports-related dental injury is so much easier and less expensive than treating one after it happens. Make sure you and your young athletes are protected.