As the leaves start to change and temperatures cool down, many of us are gearing up for the fall sports season. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or your kids are joining school teams, it’s important to remember that protecting your smile should be a top priority. At Arizona Biltmore Dentistry, we want to ensure that you and your family can enjoy your favorite activities without risking dental injuries.
The Importance of Sports Mouthguard Protection
Did you know that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries when not wearing a mouthguard? That’s a statistic that should make us all pause and consider the importance of proper protection. Sports mouthguard protection isn’t just for professional athletes or contact sports — it’s crucial for anyone participating in activities where there’s a risk of impact to the face.
Common Dental Injuries in Sports
Some of the most frequent dental injuries sports participants face include:
• Chipped or broken teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Jaw fractures
• Cuts to the lips, tongue, or cheeks
These injuries can be painful, expensive to treat, and may have long-lasting effects on your oral health. That’s why prevention is key, and a well-fitted mouthguard is your best defense.
The Benefits of Custom Mouthguards
While you can find over-the-counter mouthguards at most sporting goods stores, custom mouthguard benefits far outweigh those of generic options. Here’s why:
• Better fit: Custom mouthguards are made to fit your unique dental structure perfectly.
• Improved comfort: A better fit means you’re more likely to wear it consistently.
• Enhanced protection: Custom guards distribute impact forces more evenly.
• Durability: They’re made of higher-quality materials that last longer.
At Arizona Biltmore Dentistry, Dr. Aaron Jeziorski can create a custom mouthguard that offers superior protection and comfort for your specific needs.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you or a family member experiences a knocked-out tooth emergency, here’s what to do:
1. Retrieve the tooth, holding it by the crown (not the root).
2. Gently rinse it with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub it.
3. Try to reinsert the tooth in its socket if possible.
4. If you can’t reinsert it, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation product.
5. Contact our office immediately at 602-957-8200 for emergency care.
Remember, time is crucial when dealing with a knocked-out tooth. The sooner you receive professional care, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
Protecting Your Smile Beyond the Field
While sports mouthguards are essential for active play, don’t forget about other fall activities that might put your teeth at risk. Hayrides, pumpkin carving, and even biting into that caramel apple can potentially cause dental issues. Always use caution and common sense to protect your smile.
As we embrace the excitement of fall sports and activities, let’s make sure we’re taking the necessary steps to protect our teeth. A custom mouthguard from Arizona Biltmore Dentistry can give you peace of mind and keep you smiling through every touchdown, goal, or finish line. Don’t wait until an injury occurs — schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeziorski today to discuss your mouthguard options and keep your smile safe this season.