For some professional athletes, losing a tooth is considered par for the course. For the rest of us, however, it’s an expensive nightmare. Did you know it costs about 20 times more to replace a knocked-out tooth than it does to buy a mouthguard to prevent that tooth from being lost in the first place? That’s right, taking precautions to keep dental injuries from occurring is definitely worth it. How can you do that? Your emergency dentist in North Central San Antonio is here with 3 tips.
Invest in a Mouthguard from Your Dentist
A mouthguard is a plastic tray worn over the teeth to protect them from injury due to impact. It’s an absolute necessity when you play a sport like football or baseball where bats, balls, or other people could knock into your face. You could buy a generic mouthguard from just about any pharmacy or sporting goods store. They are designed to be one-size-fits-all, meaning they don’t really fit anybody very well. It’s much better to invest in a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist. He or she will create custom trays that provide much better protection against potential injuries.
Wear a Helmet
The other main source of protection you should be wearing is a helmet, especially one with a face guard. Football players are typically required to wear one of these, so you should be all set on that front. Keep in mind that it’s important to pick the right helmet for the sport you’re playing. A football helmet, for example, can be pretty heavy if you’re cycling.
Be Protected During Solo Sports
Even when you’re by yourself doing activities such as cycling, running, or skiing, there’s still a chance your mouth could get hurt. There’s a risk of falling and breaking or knocking out your teeth against the hard ground. Always wear a mouthguard or helmet during any physical activity, even if you’re alone.
If in doubt, it never hurts to be extra protected. When it comes to your safety, you can never be too careful. Prevent an extra trip to your emergency dentist’s office by wearing the right gear.
About the Author
Dr. Brian Eck has been practicing comprehensive dentistry for 35 years. His practice in San Antonio, Legacy Dental SA, will do everything they can do see you on the same day you call with a dental emergency. If you’re interested in getting a custom mouthguard, or if you think you have a dental emergency, contact the doctor here or call (210) 361-8905.
