Sports are a great way to stay fit and have fun, but they can also lead to unexpected dental injuries. Whether you’re an athlete or a weekend warrior, it’s crucial to know the common dental injuries that can occur and how to treat them.
Knocked-Out Teeth (Avulsed Tooth)
One of the most severe dental injuries in sports is a knocked-out tooth. Whether you’re playing football, basketball, or soccer, getting hit in the face can cause a tooth to get completely dislodged. If this happens, what’s your immediate action?
Try to find the tooth, holding it by the crown (not the root), and rinse it gently with clean water. If possible, place the tooth back in its socket, or keep it in a glass of milk until you can get to a dentist. Time is of the essence! At Westheimer Lakes Dental, offering Dental Oral Surgery in Richmond, we can re-implant the tooth if treated within an hour.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Cracking or chipping a tooth is another common injury in contact sports like hockey or rugby. These fractures may not cause immediate pain but can lead to future complications if left untreated.
If you notice a crack or chip, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. You can also apply a cold compress to reduce swelling until you reach a dental professional. The team at Westheimer Lakes Dental can quickly assess the damage and provide treatments ranging from dental bonding to more advanced restorations like crowns.
Soft Tissue Injuries
In sports, not all injuries involve the teeth. The gums, lips, and tongue are also prone to trauma. A misplaced elbow during a basketball game or an accidental fall can lead to painful cuts or bruising of the soft tissues. If bleeding occurs, rinse your mouth with salt water and apply gentle pressure using a clean cloth. Most minor soft tissue injuries heal on their own, but severe lacerations might require Dental Oral Surgery in Richmond to ensure proper healing.
Tooth Intrusion
Tooth intrusion occurs when a tooth is pushed back into the jawbone due to an impact. This is more common in children whose bones are still developing. If this happens, avoid touching or trying to move the tooth. Head to an emergency dental clinic immediately. Depending on the severity, a dentist at Westheimer Lakes Dental might need to reposition the tooth surgically.
Prevention is Key
While accidents can happen, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of sports-related dental injuries. Mouthguards act as a cushion for your teeth, reducing the chance of broken teeth, lip injuries, and jaw fractures.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or a chipped molar, quick and proper action is essential in treating sports-related dental injuries. At Westheimer Lakes Dental, our expert team is ready to provide emergency care and Dental Oral Surgery in Richmond when necessary, ensuring you can get back in the game safely.
