Sports are one of the most common causes for missing or broken teeth. At Kherani Dental at Aspen, we know that our patients love participating in sports ranging from skiing to mountain biking. Today, we want to share some tips for protecting your pearly whites, no matter your athletic pursuit of choice.
1. Invest in a Mouthguard
If you participate in a sport that involves contact, a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from impact. Our team can custom-create a mouthguard that is both comfortable to wear and strong enough to withstand impact.
2. Diet Doesn’t Just Build Muscles
A diet high in protein and calcium doesn’t just help you build strong muscles and bones – it can also strengthen teeth! Diet is one of the most overlooked parts of caring for your teeth, but remember that stronger teeth are less susceptible to injury.
3. Oral Hygiene Is Your Defense
If you want to protect your pearly whites during sports, you need a good at-home oral care routine. Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time and floss every day to reduce your risk for cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
4. Know How to React
If the worst-case scenario happens and you realize that you’ve had a tooth knocked out or chipped during a game, do not panic. For a lost tooth, you should attempt to gently place the tooth back into its socket. If you can’t, place it between your cheek and gum or in a glass of milk while you seek medical help. For cracked teeth, gently rinse your mouth and call our office immediately. In many cases, we can accommodate same-day emergency appointments.
While sports are a great way to exercise, spend time with friends, and practice new skills, they can lead to injury if you aren’t careful. To protect your smile, follow our tips. If you have any questions for our team or want to schedule an appointment, contact us today!
