All dentists have a keen interest in sports. Not necessarily because they enjoy them but because so many of their patients damage their teeth while playing them. Knocked out, cracked and chipped tooth have been the result of sporting injuries as long as there have been sporting injuries and all dentists are very familiar with the prop forward, or opening batsman coming into surgery clutching a knocked out tooth.
When playing any physical activity, particularly anything that involves physical contact or a ball, the first line of dental defence is a mouth guard. Dentists advise wearing a mouth guard when playing any physical sport as a preventative measure. They may be uncomfortable and embarrassing but not nearly so much as a knocked out tooth. A Leeds dentist will be able to fit a mouth guard that will help to prevent dental injury. Although mouth guards are available in the shops, it is always advisable to have one fitted by a dentist. Shop-bought guards are often poorly fitting which limits their effectiveness.
If you do happen to suffer a sporting dental injury, even one as nasty as a knocked out tooth or teeth, there are several options to repair the damage. With a knocked out tooth, it may be possible to replace it immediately, without forcing it. If the tooth slots back in, support it with wet gauze and see a dentist immediately, who will be able to complete the replacement. If the tooth won’t slot back in, cover it in milk or saliva and see a dentist as soon as possible. This will keep the tooth alive for a possible replacement.
If a tooth cannot be saved or is cracked or broken, there are plenty of procedures available to restore the cosmetic appearance. Dental bonding can repair minor cracks and breaks and the latest computer manufactured and designed veneers can be a lifelike substitute for a real tooth. Whatever the injury, a Leeds dentist will be able to repair the damage with stunning results.
Tags: cracked tooth, knocked out tooth, mouth guard, sporting injuries
