There are all kinds of problems that can come up in regards to our dental health. When we think of issues arising with our teeth and gums, it is usually in the form of some oral condition. Cavities, dry mouth, gingivitis and many other issues can impact our mouths greatly. But what we rarely think about until it happens to us or someone in our family is the fact that we can also suffer serious dental concerns from accidents or other forms of facial trauma.
These occurrences can often be reduced or even avoided altogether simply using a mouthguard when engaging in risky behavior. While accidents at work or when driving might be impossible to predict, other activities which increase the risk of oral trauma can be planned for and addressed. These include sports or other physical activities where significant force or contact with objects or other people are involved.
Chips, Fractures and Breaks
Whenever contact is made with the teeth, anything from a little chip to an entire tooth or section breaking off is possible. This is true of baseballs and hockey pucks, as well knees, elbows, or fists. Wearing a mouthguard while not only playing sports, but also even during basic practice can greatly reduce your chances of incurring this type of injury.
Lip, Cheek, and Tongue Lacerations
Cracked or broken teeth aren’t at all the only issues that you need to worry about when it comes to the damage that various types of facial trauma might cause. Mouthguards not only protect your smile, but they can also prevent injury to other parts of the mouth as well. These areas include your gums, tongue, lips and inside of the cheeks. An impact that is hard enough to cause damage to your teeth could also bring serious cuts or lacerations to any of these areas as well.
Mouthguards do more than just protect teeth; they also stabilize the jaws and provide a smooth surface for cheeks or gums to press against, as well as positioning the tongue in a manner where it cannot get between the teeth and risk damage from impact.
If you or a family member has experienced any of these issues or even if you would just like to learn more about how to avoid them, feel free to call our office at 479.646.0706 today. Our doctors will be glad to fit you in for a checkup. Here at River Valley Smile Center we are always ready and waiting to help our clients.
