Sports are a fantastic way for children to stay active and healthy. However, they also increase the risk of oral injuries. From chipped teeth to more severe dental trauma, sports can pose significant risks to a child's dental health. Knowing how to handle and minimize their impact can make a big difference.
Here's a look at common oral sports injuries and how to protect your child's smile.
Common Oral Sports Injuries
Children who participate in sports or activities involving balls, pucks, or physical contact are susceptible to oral injuries. The most common include:
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Tooth intrusion, or when a tooth is pushed back into the jawbone, damaging the tooth and surrounding bone
- Lip and cheek injuries like cuts and bruises (especially common among individuals with braces)
It's crucial to consult an emergency pediatric dentist promptly after any dental injury, as timely intervention can prevent further damage and facilitate successful treatment.
Protecting Your Kids' Smiles with a Custom Mouthguard
A highly effective way to prevent oral injuries in sports is by using a custom mouthguard. Custom mouthguards help cushion blows that could otherwise cause chipped teeth, fractures, or even jaw injuries. They also protect braces, which can cause additional injuries if damaged during play. While it might be tempting to opt for a cheaper generic mouthguard, investing in a custom-fitted one from your dentist ensures optimal protection.
Unlike over-the-counter options, custom mouthguards for children are tailored to fit the unique shape of a child's teeth and mouth. This custom fit provides protection and comfort and makes it easier for children to wear them consistently during sports.
Immediate Care for Dental Injuries Is Key
When a serious dental injury occurs, decisive action and immediate care are crucial. For instance, if a permanent tooth is knocked out, holding it only by the crown, gently rinse it, without scrubbing, and try to place it back in the socket. If this isn't possible, store the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit and seek emergency dental care ASAP. For chipped or broken teeth, save any fragments and contact your dentist to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
Compassionate Care for Children's Dental Emergencies in Castle Pines, CO
If you're in or around Castle Pines or Highlands Ranch, CO, and looking for a dental team to provide your kids with preventive, restorative, and corrective oral health care in a welcoming and empathetic environment, contact Dr. Jon Sierk and the Sierk Children's Dentistry team to schedule a consultation today!