Sports and Dental Injuries: The Importance of Mouthguards

While participating in a game of soccer or baseball can be a refreshing experience, the potential injuries that can occur are not as fun. From a split lip to a broken tooth, dental injuries are common, affecting up to 80 percent of participants at some point. While preventing sports-related injuries is impossible, you can help protect your smile with a mouthguard. Let’s look at common dental injuries that can occur while playing sports and how a mouthguard can help.

Common Types of Dental Injuries While Playing Sports

As an athlete, you know that the thrill of the game comes with serious risks. Some of the most common types of dental injuries you may encounter while playing sports include:

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Some of the sports’ most frequently seen dental injuries include chipped and cracked teeth. These injuries can occur from a direct hit to the mouth, a fall, or colliding with an item or person. While a chipped or cracked tooth may not immediately cause pain, it can lead to chronic tooth sensitivity and potential infections if not promptly treated.

Knocked-Out Teeth

While not as common, one or more of your teeth could be knocked out while playing a sport. Sometimes, a tooth may be slightly dislodged, and your Clermont dentist may be able to secure it back into its original socket. However, whether dislodged or completely lost, this type of dental injury requires immediate attention from your Clermont family dentistry office. With a quick response, your dentist might be able to save your knocked-out tooth.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are also reasonably common while playing sports. The lips, gums, and tongue are susceptible to cuts, abrasions, and bruises, some mild and others more severe. Injuries to the soft tissues of the face and mouth may not always be visible, such as a mild bruise that causes discomfort but is not very obvious. However, monitoring these soft tissue injuries closely is important to ensure that they don’t require medical attention or show signs of infection.

The Important Role of Mouthguards In Injury Prevention

Mouthguards protect teeth, gums, and mouth from sports-related injuries. A well-fitting mouthguard better absorbs and distributes impact forces across a larger area, cushioning the blow and reducing pressure on any singular tooth.

Using mouthguards during sports also reduces the risk of tooth fractures and dislocations. When a sudden impact occurs due to a fall or collision, a mouthguard is a shock absorber, helping reduce the likelihood of a tooth being chipped, cracked, or knocked out.

There are three main types of mouthguards to consider when purchasing your protective gear, including:

  • Stock Mouthguards: A stock mouthguard is a pre-formed mouthguard that can be purchased over the counter. There is no customization, making them the most affordable option. However, alternative options may be more comfortable and secure as they are a one-size-fits-all product.
  • Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: With a boil-and-bite mouthguard, you place the product into boiling water, which becomes pliable. The softened material can then be used to create a mold of your teeth for a more personalized fit.
  • Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: While a custom-fit mouthguard is the costliest option, it provides the most protection. Your dentist in Clermont, FL, can create a mouthguard using a precise mold of your teeth. The mouthguard is specifically tailored to your unique mouth, teeth, and gum shape.

Tips for Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Protection

When purchasing a mouthguard to protect you while playing sports, there are several things to consider. First, choose a mouthguard that provides a comfortable and secure fit. Breathability and ease of speaking while wearing the mouthguard are also crucial. If you’re having trouble finding the right mouthguard, consult your dentist about custom options.

Let Hancock Village Dental Help Protect Your Smile

Hancock Village Dental offers a wide range of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental services to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Call our office today at 352-989-5815 to book an appointment.

 

Hancock Village Dental

2560 E, State Rte 50

Suite 103

Clermont, FL 34711

352.989.5815

Since moving to Florida 18 months ago, I’ve been searching for a dentist office that makes me feel like they actually care about me and want what’s best for my health. Well, I found it!!! Hancock Village Dentistry in Clermont is the friendliest most caring office I’ve ever had the pleasure of going to. From the receptionists to the doctors, everyone was so kind and congenial. They go the extra mile to give you explanations, great care (pain free) and are honest about prices. I could not be happier with our decision! The office is beautiful and efficient and the people are even better!!

Dawn Sharp | Clermont, Florida

Hands down the best dental office I have ever visited. Every member of their staff go above and beyond to ensure that you as a patient are taken care of and the level of service is unbelievable. Dr. Kasem and Dr. Nguyen are the absolute best. Thanks for always taking care of my family!

Michael Hinkle | Clermont, Florida

In summary, my visit to their office was the most comforting dental experience I’ve ever had. Dr. Kasem and Dr. Nguyen are exceptional professionals who prioritize patient well-being. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking quality dental care. Thank you, Dr. Kasem, Dr. Nguyen, and the entire staff for making my visit memorable!

Mark Lanham | Clermont, Florida

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