Sports Dentistry
What is Sports Dentistry?
Sports dentistry is the prevention and treatment of dental injuries and related oral diseases, as well as the sharing of information and equipment designed to help protect the teeth, mouth, jaw, and face of athletes of all ages. Injuries to the teeth and mouth are common among athletes. It’s important to protect your child’s smile if he or she plays sports, for aesthetics as well as health reasons.
Common dental injuries in sports include:
- Knocked out tooth/teeth
- Chipped tooth/teeth
- Displaced teeth
Preventing Injury
One of the best ways to prevent injury to your child’s teeth and mouth is to have him or her to wear a mouthguard while playing sports.
Sports related injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries received by athletes. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury. If you participate in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, wrestling, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that you wear a mouthguard.
There are several types of mouthguards to choose from, and your doctor can help you choose the best one for your child’s particular needs.
Types of Mouthguards
Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. There are three basic types of mouthguards:
- Pre-made mouthguard
- “Boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard
- Custom-made mouthguard from your dentist
When you chose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing properly. If you wear braces or a retainer, it is imperative for you to wear a mouthguard. Your dentist can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile.