Protect Your Teeth When Playing Sports

Sports are a fantastic way to stay active and healthy. But, they can also pose risks to your teeth if you don’t take the proper precautions. Whether you’re into basketball, soccer, or even cycling, protecting your teeth should be a top priority. It’s crucial to safeguard your teeth during sports, and there are ways that you can do it effectively.

Protecting Your Teeth During Sports

Participating in sports carries inherent risks of injury. Dental injuries are more common than you might think. A stray ball, collision with another player, or even a fall can lead to broken or knocked-out teeth. These not only cause pain and discomfort but also create significant dental expenses for repairs. Furthermore, dental injuries sustained during sports can have long-term consequences, including tooth loss, nerve damage, and even jaw fractures.

Common Dental Injuries in Sports

Some of the most frequent dental injuries encountered in sports include broken or chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, and injuries to the lips, cheeks, and tongue. These injuries can result from direct impacts to the face or mouth, sudden falls, or collisions with other players or equipment. While some injuries may be minor and easily treatable, others can be severe and require extensive dental intervention.

How to Protect Your Teeth During Sports

Wear a Mouthguard: Mouthguards are essential protective gear for athletes of all ages and skill levels. They act as a cushion to absorb and disperse the force of impact, reducing the risk of dental injuries. Custom-fitted mouthguards, available through your dentist, offer the best fit and protection. But, boil-and-bite or ready-to-wear mouthguards can also provide adequate protection when properly fitted. Although, you will find that custom mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort. 

Use Protective Headgear: In high-contact sports such as football, hockey, and rugby, wearing helmets or headgear with built-in face shields can help prevent dental injuries by providing additional protection to the face and mouth. Ensure that headgear fits snugly and is worn according to manufacturer guidelines for maximum effectiveness.

Practice Good Dental Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, can help strengthen your teeth and gums. This can make them more resilient to injury. Additionally, addressing any pre-existing dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, reduces the risk of complications in the event of a dental injury.

Avoid Risky Behaviors: Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid engaging in reckless or aggressive behavior during sports activities. Respect the rules of the game, play with proper technique, and refrain from using your teeth to open packages, tear tape, or bite on hard objects. These behaviors can all increase the risk of dental trauma. It is better to avoid habits that can damage your teeth or put them at risk of more serious injuries.