Sports have a huge impact on general health. However, they also expose a higher risk of injuring their dental. Knowledge of such injuries and the means to avoid them can save the athlete from painful and expensive dental procedures. Regular dentist appointments are essential for an athlete, especially in high-contact sports. The main reason is that regular dental check-ups offer better guidance on tooth protection and proper oral health monitoring against damage. This blog will bring available information regarding the possible risks of sports-related dental injuries and effective strategies for tooth protection. Moreover, people can contact Fontana dentist for additional tips on how to protect their teeth.
Some useful ways to protect teeth while playing sports:
It may be wise to wear mouthguards while swimming, wrestling, or skipping while visiting the dentist to protect them while playing sports. Mouth guards absorb impacts, and regular dentist clinic check-ups catch potential dental challenges much earlier.
Use Helmets.
The helmet protects against tooth fractures or even head damage. A serious facial or dental injury can occur at any moment while playing any sport, whether caused by a hockey puck, basketball, or other object.
Use Mouthguards.
Mouthguards are suitable for various sports, such as swimming, soccer, hockey, etc. However, they are completely different when considering mouthguards for football, baseball, or other sports. The reason is that not all sports require a mouthguard.
Set Rules and Know the Risks.
It can be a great idea to set certain rules and explain the risks involved before the beginning of any sport. Beyond providing physical protection, safe play must also be encouraged to prevent possible injuries. Sportsmanship should be practiced to refrain from playing aggressively, which might lead to teeth and other body parts injuries. Explaining the precautionary measures about sports, such as what can happen and situations where injuries could happen, can help keep players playing their best game.
Hydrate with Water.
The top priority during high-intensity sports activities is hydration. Most professional dentists recommend players quench their thirst by drinking water rather than a sugary sports drink. Most sports drinks consist of sugar. There is a scientific reason why sugary drinks can cause adverse reactions, as bacteria present in the mouth can cause acid and damage the enamel of the tooth. Moreover, it can lead to gum diseases, cavities, and other dental issues. So, most dentists recommend that sports players consume drinks with low sugar, potassium, and electrolytes.
Engage in proper Dental Hygiene.
Proper dental practices are important to develop healthy teeth and gums. A tooth with a few fillings and decayed areas is more vulnerable to a sports injury than a completely healthy tooth.
Seek regularly scheduled Dental Check-ups.
More frequent visits to a dental health practitioner will help the players regularly get a proper update about their oral health. For instance, if the player is suffering from any kind of severe injury, such as oral cancer, cavity, or any other complications, they can be easily diagnosed and treated on a timely basis so that the player won’t face any complications in the future.
Conclusion
The above are some useful ways to protect teeth while playing sports. Wearing a mouthguard or the right helmet, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding chewing on hard objects, and staying hydrated will all help reduce the chances of being injured in a dental accident. In addition, regular visits to the dentist can help maintain healthy and safe dental health. Remember, prevention is the only thing that matters to turn those sporty activities into a healthy smile.
