Football season is a favorite time of year for many families, but the physical nature of the sport can put young athletes at risk for football dental injuries. A hard hit, fall or collision can result in a chipped tooth, knocked-out tooth, injury to the gums or even damage to the jaw.
The good news is that many sports-related dental injuries can be prevented with the right protection. And if an injury does happen, knowing what to do can help protect your child's smile.
Common Football Dental Injuries
Football players can experience several different types of dental injuries. Understanding what to watch for can help parents respond appropriately when an accident happens.
Chipped or Broken Teeth
A collision or direct hit to the face can cause a tooth to chip, crack or break. Even a small chip can cause sensitivity or expose part of the tooth to additional damage.
How to prevent it: Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during football practices and games can help protect the teeth from impact.
If it happens: Have your child stop playing and contact their dentist for an evaluation. If a piece of the tooth breaks off, keep it and bring it to the dental appointment if possible.
Knocked-Out Teeth
A knocked-out permanent tooth is one of the more serious football dental injuries and requires prompt attention.
How to prevent it: A properly fitted mouthguard can help reduce the risk of injuries to the teeth and mouth during contact sports.
If it happens: Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown, or top portion, without touching the root. Gently rinse it if necessary, but don't scrub the tooth. Keep it moist and seek dental care as soon as possible.
Loose or Displaced Teeth
A hard impact can cause a tooth to become loose or move out of its normal position. Even if the tooth doesn't appear severely damaged, it should be evaluated by a dentist.
How to prevent it: Make a mouthguard part of your athlete's regular football gear.
If it happens: Don't try to move the tooth back into place yourself. Contact a dentist promptly for an evaluation.
Injuries to the Lips, Cheeks and Gums
Not every mouth injury involves the teeth. A football collision can also cause cuts or other injuries to the lips, cheeks and gums.
How to prevent it: A mouthguard can provide additional protection for the teeth and soft tissues inside the mouth.
If it happens: Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or cloth to help control bleeding. If bleeding is severe, continues, or the injury appears significant, seek professional medical attention.
Jaw Injuries
Football players can also experience injuries to the jaw after a collision or fall. Pain, swelling, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, or a change in the way the teeth fit together can be signs that the injury needs professional attention.
How to prevent it: Athletes should use appropriate protective equipment and follow proper safety practices during games and practices.
If it happens: Stop playing and have the injury evaluated by a medical professional.
How to Prevent Football Dental Injuries
While accidents can happen, there are several steps parents and young athletes can take to reduce the risk of football dental injuries.
Wear a Mouthguard
A properly fitted mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of protective equipment for athletes participating in contact sports. Talk with your dentist about finding the right option for your child.
Replace Worn Mouthguards
Mouthguards can become worn or damaged over time. Check your child's mouthguard regularly and replace it when it no longer fits properly or shows signs of wear.
Use the Right Protective Equipment
Make sure your young athlete uses the protective equipment recommended for their sport and age group. Proper equipment can help reduce the risk of injuries on the field.
Know What to Do in an Emergency
Parents and coaches should know how to respond when a dental injury occurs. Having a plan in place can help you act quickly instead of trying to figure out what to do in the moment.
When Should You See a Dentist After a Football Injury?
Some football dental injuries may seem minor at first. However, a tooth that becomes loose, chipped, displaced or unusually sensitive after an impact should be evaluated by a dental professional.
Prompt attention can help identify damage that may not be immediately visible and determine whether additional treatment is needed.
If your child experiences a dental injury during football season, contact NELA Dental to schedule an evaluation. Our team can help assess injuries and provide guidance for protecting your child's oral health.
Protect Your Athlete's Smile This Football Season
Football is about teamwork, preparation and being ready for the unexpected. The same approach can apply to your child's dental health.
From wearing a properly fitted mouthguard to knowing what to do after an injury, a little preparation can go a long way toward protecting your young athlete's smile.
If you're looking for family dental care in Northeast Louisiana, NELA Dental is here to help keep your family's smiles healthy throughout football season and beyond.
