Fall sports season is in full swing! Kids and teens are busy playing soccer or football for school and rec leagues, or even just in the backyard. We love all of our local sports teams in the Carroll County/Baltimore County Area! Mouth injuries are unfortunately a part of sports, and while we can’t offer any tips on preventing mouth injuries other than just using common sense and being careful, we can provide some ways to protect your teeth in the process.
Wear a mouthguard.
Many sports require one, but even more importantly, make sure your mouthguard fits properly. If necessary, get a specially fitted one from your dentist or orthodontist. Not only will one that fits better protect your teeth, but it will be more comfortable, so you are more likely to wear it.
Wear proper equipment.
Many sports require a helmet, cage, or other protective head gear that prevents head and mouth injuries. Wear them–even during practice and in the backyard. You never know when that injury might happen, and a tooth broken at age 13 is still broken at age 60!
Know what to do in case of an injury.
Should you knock out a tooth during sports, take the following steps to increase your chances of being able to reimplant the tooth.
- Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown and not the root.
- Call your dentist right away.
- Store the tooth in milk or saliva–don’t let it dry out!
Have a great sports season!
