Effective Ways To Protect Your Young Athlete’s Smile

Most parents are passionate about keeping their children active. Youth sports are one of the best ways for young people to stay active. On average, over 40 million children participate in youth sports every year in the United States. While sports are a great way for a child to learn how to work with others and will keep them active, there are also dangers associated with playing sports.

When playing sports like baseball, basketball or football, a child may be hit in the mouth. These hits to the mouth can severely damage a child’s teeth. If you want to protect your young athlete’s smile, consider the great tips in this article.

Information About Sports-Related Dental Injuries

Before we cover how to protect a young athlete’s smile, you need to know more about the dental injuries that can occur while playing sports. Here are some of the most common sports-related dental injuries.
Dealing With a Displaced Tooth

If a young athlete experiences a blow to their mouth, it could lead to a tooth being shifted out of place. When confronted with this dental injury, the worst thing you can do is attempt to move the tooth back into place. Seeking out the help of a dental professional is crucial when trying to minimize the damage this injury can cause.

A Knocked-Out Tooth

Getting hit in the mouth with a ball can also lead to a tooth getting knocked out. If your child has their tooth knocked out, you need to get them to an emergency dentist quickly. In most cases, there is a 30-minute window of opportunity to get a tooth back in the socket once it is has been knocked out.

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

When a young athlete has a tooth chipped or cracked, the treatment options used by their dentist will vary. In most cases, a dentist will take an x-ray of the affected tooth to figure out how to proceed with treatment. Bonding is one of the most commonly used methods of fixing a chipped or cracked tooth.

Effective Ways To Protect Your Young Athlete’s Teeth

Now that you know more about sports-related dental injuries, it is time to discuss effective ways to protect your child’s smile.

Invest in a Quality Mouthguard

One of the most effective ways to protect a young athlete’s teeth is by investing in a quality mouthguard. These guards are designed to go over your child’s teeth and add a layer of protection. If your child is hit with a ball while wearing a mouthguard, their teeth will not bear the brunt of this force.

Avoid Giving Your Child Sugary Sports Drinks

Staying hydrated is important for a young athlete. Instead of providing your child with sugary sports drinks, you need to encourage them to hydrate with water. Opting for this healthier drink option will allow your child to avoid cavities and get the hydration they need.

By implementing these tips, you can keep your child’s teeth safe while they play the sport they love.