Youth Sports and Dental Injuries: Why Are Mouthguards Essential?
When it comes to emergency dental care, it pays to have your child wear a mouthguard while playing sports. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) states that dental injuries sustained by children often result from sports activities. In fact, broken teeth, including treating chipped teeth, make up 10% to 39% of sports-related injuries.
Why Is a Mouthguard Important in Sports?
To reduce the chance of needing broken teeth repair, it’s recommended to get a customized mouthguard for your children who regularly play sports. It is better to get a customized mouthguard, as a standard mouthguard sold in drug stores or similar retailers will not fit as well and, therefore, will not protect the teeth as well either. A snug fit will keep your child from facing an unexpected dental emergency.
When it comes to teeth, teens and adults also need to play it safe. For example, if you like to play basketball or soccer in your free time, or you are involved in contact sports, it’s recommended to have a mouthguard made.
Can You Wait to Have a Broken Tooth Repaired?
Some people who have cracked or chipped teeth wonder if they can wait to have the repair made, especially if the broken tooth is not visible. Unfortunately, this is not a good idea. A broken tooth is more than just an aesthetic problem. It can also be a health issue. A cracked or broken tooth that goes unrepaired will only worsen over time and put you at greater risk for tooth decay and dental pain.
In the event that a tooth is broken or chipped due to a condition called bruxism, which involves the clenching and grinding of the teeth, the tooth could become even more damaged if left alone without the necessary broken teeth repair.
Don’t wait too long to schedule broken teeth repair services, as chipped teeth or cracks in teeth are susceptible to the bacteria that trigger dental decay and cavities. It is better to safeguard broken teeth with dental crowns and similar restorations to prevent further dental problems, including severe decay or gum disease.
By taking a proactive approach with broken teeth repair, you can improve the appearance of your smile and improve dental functioning. Regardless of your dental concern, we can help. If you have not done so already, check to see about getting a customized mouthguard if your child plays sports. We also offer several therapies for broken teeth repair, including the placement of dental crowns, bonding, and implants. Give us a call now to schedule an appointment for an exam.