Sports Mouth Guard
SRD on Helton Drive in Florence, AL
 In recent years, youth and adolescent sports participation has increased steadily. There are between 20 and 25 million youths participating in competitive sports.
An increase in participation levels has resulted in a rise in injuries. A significant percentage of all child and adolescent unintentional injuries are caused by sports. An estimated 10 to 20 percent of injuries that occur during sports are related to the mouth and jaw. Dentally related injuries constitute the most common type of orofacial injury suffered in sports.
An athlete without a protective sports mouth guard is 50 times more likely to sustain damage to their teeth. The problem is that these injuries will frequently result in permanent damage to oral structures, which will require medical intervention.
At Singing River Dentistry, we can customize a sports mouth guard for you or a family member when you come into our location on Helton Drive in Florence, AL.
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Dental Injuries
In terms of dental injuries, there are three main categories, each requiring a specific treatment.
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You can classify fractures according to whether they are root fractures, broken teeth, or chipped teeth. The bleeding should be controlled by gently biting on a towel to stabilize the portion of the tooth left in the mouth. In general, salt solutions, milk, saline-soaked gauze, or under the athlete's tongue are the most effective methods of transport.
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When the entire root of the tooth is knocked out, this is referred to as an avulsion. It is very important not to handle or scrub the tooth by its root. Gently rinse the tooth and place it back in the socket while biting down on a towel.
It is considered a luxation when the tooth is still in the socket but in the wrong position. For example, the tooth may be extruded or displaced laterally. The term "extruded tooth" refers to a tooth that appears longer than the adjacent teeth.
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There is a lateral displacement of a tooth when it is moved forward or backward. When the tooth is removed in these two instances, it must be repositioned in the socket by applying firm pressure with your finger. An experienced dentist should perform this procedure. Do not attempt to move the tooth yourself. Consult us immediately should a luxation occur. |
It is important to remember that time is of the essence when resolving dental injuries. It is not acceptable for the athlete to wait until the end of the game before seeking treatment for a dental injury. Transport the athlete within two hours of the injury for optimal results.
Choosing a Mouth Guard
Mouth guards are divided into three types. Mouth guards are available as ready-made, boil-and-bite, and custom-made products.
While these sports mouth guards differ in cost and comfort, they all provide some level of protection. Effective mouth guards must be comfortable, resilient, and resistant to tearing. A mouth guard should fit correctly, be durable, easy to clean, and not restrict speech or breathing.
Schedule With Your Florence AL Dentist on Helton Drive Today!
Remember that damaged teeth cannot be regrown. Protect your smile by wearing a mouth guard. Visit Singing River Dentistry to have a sports mouth guard fitted for you and your family members, including children. Contact us if you have any questions concerning these oral appliances at (256) 904-4220.
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