Are you an athlete? Whether you enjoy a team sport, like football, or an individual one, like cross-country running, it’s important to protect your mouth. After all, all it takes is one bad fall or one rogue ball for you to spend the rest of the afternoon at your emergency dentist’s office. The good news is that you can significantly reduce your risk of sustaining a dental injury with the right best practices in place. Keep reading to learn a few!
The Most Common Dental Injuries Among Athletes
From baseball and soccer to track and wrestling, sports of all kinds have one thing in common: they can lead to a smile-related injury. In fact, did you know that more than 5 million teeth are knocked-out each year in sports-related incidents? As a result, it’s one of the most common dental injuries among athletes. Other common dental emergencies include chipped, cracked, and fractured teeth.
How You Can Protect Your Smile
Pain and anxiety are a few unpleasant emotions that can surround dental emergencies. As mentioned above, there are a few important ways you can protect your smile, including:
- Wear a mouthguard during contact and non-contact sports.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning.
- Follow a solid oral care regimen (i.e., brushing twice a day, flossing daily, etc.).
- Don’t eat sugar in excess.
- Avoid sports drinks that are high in sugar.
Why Custom Mouthguards Are Better Than OTC Options
Mouthguards may seem like a small appliance, but they can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your teeth. While selecting an over-the-counter option at your local sporting goods store may seem like the best route to go, a custom-made one is far superior for a number of reasons. To begin, ill-fitting ones can be a choking hazard. Plus, personalized mouthguards fit snugly against your teeth, protecting them from forceful impact. In short, your smile is worth protecting, so invest in a custom mouthguard from your dentist.
As an athlete, your teeth help you eat nutritious foods, communicate clearly to your teammates, and smile confidently for victory photos. Don’t leave them unprotected. Talk to your dentist today about getting a personalized mouthguard!
About the Author
With both a father and grandfather who were doctors, Dr. Gregory Palmer saw first-hand the positive impact he could have on others by pursuing the same field. He decided to earn his dental doctorate at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and he has been serving patients in and around Houston ever since! If you’re interested in getting a mouthguard or would simply like to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 713-221-7398.