Kids are constantly on the move; between riding their bikes, playing outdoor games, and taking the field for various sports, their energy often seems endless! But with all of that activity comes some risks, especially when it comes to their teeth. In fact, dental injuries are among the most common sports-related injuries in children. The good news is many of these injuries are preventable with the right precautions; here’s what you need to know.
The Power of a Mouthguard
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent a dental emergency is having your child wear a mouthguard during sports and other highly physical activities. Mouthguards cushion the teeth against sudden impacts from things like flung fists and elbows, trips and falls, or foul balls, absorbing force that would otherwise harm your child’s smile.
While store-bought mouthguards may seem convenient, a custom-fitted mouthguard made specifically for your child’s mouth tends to provide a more secure, comfortable fit, which means that in addition to providing superior protection, your child is also more likely to actually wear it!
Other Tips for Preventing Sports-Related Injuries
Beyond mouthguards, there are a few other habits that can help reduce your child’s risk of a sports-related dental injury:
- Make sure your child wears a helmet for sports like football, hockey, and baseball.
- Encourage them to pay close attention while playing to help avoid unnecessary collisions.
- Keep up with regular dental checkups so your child’s dentist can monitor tooth development and note any concerns early on.
How to Handle Sports-Related Dental Injuries
If your child chips, cracks, or knocks out a tooth during a game or practice, staying calm can help you to act quickly and effectively, and it also helps your child to keep a cool head. Gently rinse the area with water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and if a tooth has been knocked out, try to locate it and store it in a small container of milk or your child’s saliva. From there, it’s important to contact your child’s dentist as soon as possible, since prompt care can make a real difference.
Sports and physical activity are an important part of childhood, and with a few simple precautions, your child can enjoy them while keeping their smile protected!
About the Practice
Our team here at Main Street Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Pleasanton has proudly served families in the area for several years. We offer a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages, including custom-fitted athletic mouthguards as well as same-day emergency dentistry for urgent injuries. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for your child, you can reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (925) 425-9292.