Tooth injuries are a fairly common occurrence, especially among younger children and people who are active in sports. However, if you see your family dentist promptly, an injury to your tooth does not have to result in the permanent loss of that tooth. Keeping your teeth safe, though, can greatly reduce the possibility of this type of injury.
Keeping Your Teeth Safe
One important way to prevent tooth injury is to avoid situations in which you might fall and hurt yourself. Be careful on wet, icy, or uneven surfaces. Wear appropriate shoes for the terrain you expect to be walking on. When you are riding in a car, always wear your seatbelt. When biking or riding a horse, always wear a helmet. This will help prevent injury in general, but will also help keep your teeth safe.
If you participate in any kind of contacts sports, it is very important to wear a mouthguard during practice or games. Sports like football and hockey can easily lead to major tooth or mouth injuries, and even tooth loss. Wearing a mouthguard helps reduce the chances that you will permanently injure a tooth or cause damage to your soft oral tissues. Ask your family dentist what type of mouthguard is the best for your needs.
What to Do In Case of a Tooth Injury
If you do suffer an injury to your teeth or oral tissues, it’s important to see a dentist as promptly as possible. If your mouth is bleeding, put pressure on the area to slow or stop the flow of blood. If a tooth has been dislodged, place it in a cup of water or milk and bring it with you. Your dentist might be able to save the tooth if you’re careful with it.
Your dentist will assess your injury and determine the best treatment. If a tooth is broken or chipped, restoration treatment can restore your smile. If you lose a tooth permanently, you can discuss replacement options that will not only help you look your best but also keep your other teeth from moving out of alignment by calling 817-465-0355 today.
