As the saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.” This adage is especially true when it comes to protecting your teeth during sports activities. Whether you are an amateur or professional athlete, taking measures to protect your teeth can prevent painful and expensive dental procedures in the future.
At Morning Star Dentistry, Dr. Justin Liggett is committed to helping his patients maintain their oral health and protect their teeth. Here are some tips and equipment recommendations from Dr. Liggett on how to protect your teeth during sports activities:
- Wear a Mouthguard: Mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth during high-impact sports such as basketball, football, and hockey. A custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist provides the best protection, as it is designed to fit your teeth precisely. A well-fitted mouthguard should not interfere with breathing or speech and should be comfortable to wear.
- Choose the Right Helmet: A helmet is another essential piece of equipment for protecting your teeth during sports activities. Make sure to choose a helmet that fits properly and is designed for your specific sport. Helmets can prevent traumatic injuries to the face and head that can cause damage to your teeth.
- Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools: Using your teeth to open bottles, tear packages, or bite your nails can cause serious damage to your teeth. These habits can cause your teeth to crack, chip, or even break, which can result in expensive dental procedures.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups can help identify dental problems early on, making them easier and less expensive to treat. Your dentist can also provide you with additional tips on how to protect your teeth during sports activities.
By following these tips, you can help protect and take care of your teeth during sports activities. Additionally, Dr. Liggett and his team provide custom-fitted mouthguards to help protect an individual’s teeth during those activities as well as offer a range of dental services, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry.
