Whether playing in competitive leagues, recreational games or just keeping your heart healthy on the court; sports are a big part of life for many people as well. Besides all the physical benefits, sports also come with a risk of a dental injury says an emergency dentist in Queens, NY. These are sudden, unpredictable injuries that result in pain or discomfort and can lead to further issues down the line if not treated promptly. As an athlete, it is important to know how sports-related dental injuries can be prevented and identified; as well you should learn steps that will guide your treatment options if confronted with such a situation.
Common sports-related dental injuries
More common than most of us might think are sports dental injuries. Types of common sports-related dental emergencies include:
- Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion): The whole tooth is being knocked out of the socket, as a result of an injury by either a fall or a direct blow.
- Tooth Intrusion: A rare injury, occurs when the tooth is pushed into itself (inward) or back to bite position instantaneously.
- Broken Teeth: Teeth that are chipped or broken can vary in severity from little chips to large fractures that reveal the inner layers of the tooth.
- Fractured Roots: A fractured root can be hidden and not easy to see causing problems years later if it is left untreated.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Impact on another player, their equipment, or falling can result in the lips, gums, and tongue sustaining injury.
Preventing Dental Injuries Associated with Sports
Although it is not possible to completely prevent dental injuries, there are steps you may take to greatly lower the risk:
1. Wear a Mouthguard
Mouthguards are some of the most effective ways to you can protect your teeth while playing sports. Why You Need Them: Guards cushion impacts and can stave off or at least reduce the rate of injury to your teeth, lips tongue, and jaw. The American Dental Association reports that dentist-provided custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best protection.
2. Use Helmets and Face Guards
A helmet with a faceguard is necessary for contact sports like football, hockey, or lacrosse. Protecting these with a mouthpiece and teeth guards can help to keep them safe from direct impact.
3. Watch Where You Go
By knowing your surroundings on a field, in the court, or gym, you can also prevent collisions and falls that could cause dental injuries.
4. Educate Young Athletes
If you have kids playing sports, start early and get them used to helmets or following safety rules. If you teach your children to develop these habits when they are young, it can prevent them from getting injured as they grow older.
Emergency Dentist in Queens NY
Hundreds if not thousands of dental professionals in Queens, NY specialize in emergency care. Read on to discover where you or your loved one should go in the event of a sports-related dental injury. Just having an emergency dentist in your corner can be a big relief because you will know that when the time comes, he is only as far away from getting you help.
In Queens, New York, players are particularly concerned about oral injuries sustained during sports. For the greatest results, these emergencies—which can range from knocked-out teeth to shattered roots—require prompt medical attention. The risk of dental injuries can be decreased by adopting preventative measures, such as utilizing the appropriate protective equipment and wearing a mouthguard. If an accident does happen, though, you must get emergency dental care right once to protect your oral health and feel confident about playing again.
