As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, many of us are gearing up for the fall sports season. Whether you’re a student athlete or a weekend warrior, it’s important to remember that your smile needs protection, too. At Spring Haven Dental, we want to ensure that you can enjoy your favorite activities without risking your dental health.
The Importance of Sports Mouthguard Protection
Did you know that athletes are 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries when not wearing a mouthguard? That’s a statistic that should make us all pause and consider the importance of proper protection. Sports mouthguard protection is essential for anyone participating in contact sports or activities with a high risk of falls or collisions.
Common Dental Injuries in Sports
Dental injuries from sports can range from minor chips to more severe issues like knocked-out teeth. Some of the most common injuries include:
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Fractured roots
• Cuts to the lips, tongue, or cheeks
• Jaw fractures
• Tooth intrusion (tooth pushed into the jawbone)
These injuries can be painful, costly to treat, and may have long-lasting effects on your oral health. That’s why prevention is key.
Custom Mouthguard Benefits
While you can find over-the-counter mouthguards at sporting goods stores, custom mouthguards offer superior protection and comfort. Here are some custom mouthguard benefits:
• Perfect fit: Molded to your unique dental structure
• Improved comfort: Less bulky, allowing for easier breathing and speaking
• Enhanced protection: Covers all teeth and provides better shock absorption
• Durability: Made from high-quality materials that last longer
At Spring Haven Dental, we can create a custom mouthguard that fits you perfectly, ensuring maximum protection and comfort during your athletic activities.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you experience a knocked-out tooth emergency, time is of the essence. Here’s what to do:
1. Retrieve the tooth, holding it by the crown (not the root)
2. Gently rinse it with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub it
3. Try to reinsert the tooth in its socket if possible
4. If you can’t reinsert it, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation product
5. Get to a dentist as quickly as possible — ideally within 30 minutes
Remember, quick action can often save a knocked-out tooth!
Protecting Your Smile This Season
As you gear up for fall sports, don’t forget to protect your smile. A custom mouthguard from Spring Haven Dental can provide the protection you need to play with confidence. Our team, led by Dr. Fadi Raffoul, DMD, is committed to keeping your smile healthy and beautiful, on and off the field.
Don’t wait until an injury occurs. Call us today at (813) 448-6885 to schedule an appointment and learn more about custom mouthguards. Let’s work together to keep your smile safe this sports season!
