Children who play sports are susceptible to dental injuries and related oral diseases, and often practice the bad, so bad habit of sharing equipment designed to shield their teeth, mouth, jaw, and face. Parents of children who play sports need to take special care to protect their mouths, for aesthetic as well as health reasons.

The most common sport-related dental injuries, and how to treat them.

If your child got his tooth knocked out:

• Should you have an emergency, time is the most important factor (There’s a window of about 30 minutes to re-implant the tooth successfully, but it’s not advisable to try and do this yourself.), so get to Smilez Pediatric Dental Group Loudoun as soon as possible.
• Place the tooth in a clean container, in cold milk if it’s available. Otherwise, saliva, saline, or plain water will work in a pinch.
• Don’t let the tooth dry out and don’t wrap it in anything.
• Avoid touching the tooth root.

If your child has a chipped or cracked tooth:

• Get to the dentist as soon as possible, especially in the event of a serious chip that has exposed the pulp of the tooth.
• Your dentist will want to take an X-ray to determine the treatment necessary, which could be as simple as placing a filling or bonding, or the repair might be more complicated.

If your child’s tooth has been shifted out of place:

• See your dentist as soon as possible.
• Do not try to move the tooth back on your own.
• Apply ice or a cold compress to relieve swelling and pain.

Do your part to help prevent dental injury.

One of the best ways to prevent injury to your child’s teeth and mouth is to have him or her to wear a mouthguard while playing sports — one that is fitted for his mouth and all his own to use. Smilez Pediatric Dental Group can help you choose the best one for your child’s particular needs.