Sports dentistry focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental injuries and related oral diseases, as well as providing equipment to protect the teeth, mouth, jaw, and face of athletes of all ages. Injuries to the teeth and mouth are common in sport, and a properly fitted mouth guard can help reduce the risk.
Common Dental Injuries in Sports
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency. Time matters, so get to Banyan Dental as soon as you can — the sooner the tooth is re-implanted, the better the chance of saving it. In the meantime:
- Do not try to re-implant the tooth yourself
- Transport the tooth in cold milk if available — saliva or saline are alternatives, and water should be a last resort
- Do not let the tooth dry out and do not wrap it in anything
- Avoid touching the tooth root if at all possible
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth may require different levels of treatment depending on the severity:
- Dr. Verma, General Dentist, will typically use an X-ray to determine the appropriate course of action
- Minor chips or cracks can often be repaired with a filling or dental bonding
- If the chip exposes the pulp of the tooth, seek care as soon as possible
- If the crack or chip has affected the nerve, a more involved treatment such as endodontic therapy may be needed
Displaced Tooth
If a tooth has been moved or shifted due to trauma:
- See Dr. Verma, General Dentist, as soon as possible
- Do not attempt to move the tooth back into position on your own
- Apply ice to the outside of the mouth to manage discomfort until you reach our office
Preventing Sports-Related Dental Injuries
A properly fitted mouth guard can help protect your child’s teeth during sports. A custom dental sports guard in Langley is made from impressions of your child’s own teeth, which allows for a closer fit than a generic guard. There are several types of sports mouth guards available, and Dr. Verma, General Dentist, can discuss which option may suit your child’s sport, age, and individual needs.
Get Your Child Fitted for a Sport Mouth Guard in Langley
If your child plays contact sports, a custom mouth guard is worth discussing. Schedule an appointment at Banyan Dental and Dr. Verma, General Dentist, can take impressions and fit a custom dental mouth guard in Langley, BC.
