Dental injuries are the most common type of orofacial injuries sustained during participation in sports. In fact, the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation estimates that more than three million teeth will be knocked out during youth sporting events in the United States this year.
The best way to prevent a dental injury while participating in sports is to wear the right equipment, including a properly fitting mouth guard. However, even with the right equipment, injuries do occur.
If you or your child has sustained a dental injury while participating in sports, it is important to visit a qualified dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes teeth that have sustained trauma can be repaired and saved using dental procedures such as fillings or root canals. Teeth that are chipped or broken may sometimes be capped with a crown. Cosmetic procedures such as bonding, shaping and porcelain veneers can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that have become chipped, broken or discolored due to trauma.
If one or more of your teeth is knocked out during a sporting event, it is especially important to go to the Emergency Room as soon as possible. The faster the tooth is back in the mouth, the better the chances for its long-term survival. Even if the tooth or teeth cannot be saved, you still have some options. Bridges, dentures, partial dentures and dental implants are all viable options for replacing a missing tooth or missing teeth.
Participation in group sports is good for your body, good for your mind and is an important part of development for many children. However, safe participation in group sports is essential for maintaining good oral health.
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