Sports Dentistry

Sports dentistry in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral injuries and related dental issues that occur during athletic activities.Dental injuries are common in both contact and non-contact sports, and they can have lasting effects on oral health if not properly managed.

Why Athletes Need Specialized Dental Care

• Injury Prevention: One of the primary goals of sports dentistry is preventing dental injuries. Using protective devices such as mouthguards can significantly reduce the risk of broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue injuries (like cuts to the gums and lips).
• Immediate Treatment: In the unfortunate event of a dental injury, sports dentists are trained to provide immediate care, which can be essential for preserving the tooth or minimizing damage.
• Long-term Health: Athletes who do not protect their teeth during sports may face long-term consequences, including tooth loss, jaw alignment issues, and chronic pain. Sports dentistry ensures that athletes can maintain their dental health for years to come.

Common Dental Injuries in Sports

Sports can be tough on the body, and this includes your teeth, gums, and jaw. Some of the most common dental injuries sustained during sports include:

Tooth Fractures

Tooth fractures occur when a part of the tooth breaks off due to a blow or trauma. The fracture can range from minor chips to severe cracks that extend into the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth).

• Minor fractures: These involve chips or cracks on the tooth's surface and can often be repaired with bonding or veneers.
• Major fractures: These are more serious and may require more extensive treatments, such as crowns or even root canals, if the pulp is damaged.

Tooth Avulsion

Tooth avulsion is when a tooth is completely knocked out of its socket. This type of injury requires immediate attention to increase the chances of saving the tooth. If the tooth is reinserted into the socket within an hour, there is a greater chance of successful reattachment.

Luxation (Tooth Displacement)

Luxation occurs when a tooth is pushed out of its normal position but remains in the mouth. The tooth may be pushed deeper into the gum (intrusion), or it may be knocked forward or backward (extrusion). Prompt dental care is required to reposition the tooth and prevent long-term damage.

Fractured Jaw

A fractured jaw is a serious injury that can result from high-impact sports or contact sports like football, hockey, or boxing. Symptoms of a fractured jaw include pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing. Immediate medical and dental attention is needed to stabilize the jaw and ensure proper healing.

Soft Tissue Injuries

The soft tissues of the mouth, including the lips, gums, and inner cheeks, can be injured during sports. Cuts, lacerations, and bruising are common, and in some cases, stitches may be required. Contact us to learn more.

The Role of Mouthguards in Sports Dentistry in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

One of the most effective ways to prevent dental injuries in sports is by using a mouthguard. A properly fitted mouthguard can protect the teeth, gums, and jaw from injury. It can also prevent concussions by absorbing some of the shock from a blow to the jaw.

Types of Mouthguards

There are several types of mouthguards available, each offering different levels of protection:

Stock Mouthguards

• These are pre-formed and ready to wear, but they are not customized to fit the athlete's mouth.
• While inexpensive, stock mouthguards offer the least amount of protection and can be uncomfortable, as they often do not fit well.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

• These mouthguards are softened in hot water and then molded to the athlete's teeth. They provide better protection than stock mouthguards and are more comfortable.
• They are widely available in sporting goods stores and are a popular choice for many athletes.

Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

• Custom-fitted mouthguards are designed specifically for an athlete's mouth by a dentist or orthodontist. They offer the highest level of protection, comfort, and durability.
• Although they are more expensive than other types, custom mouthguards are recommended for athletes involved in high-impact or contact sports.

At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Dr. Natalie Lam emphasizes the importance of custom-fitted mouthguards for her patients, particularly those who participate in sports. A well-fitted mouthguard can provide superior protection against dental injuries while ensuring comfort during play.

Benefits of Using a Mouthguard

• Prevents Tooth Damage: Mouthguards act as a cushion, reducing the impact of a blow to the face and helping to prevent fractures, chips, and tooth loss.
• Protects Soft Tissues: A mouthguard can also protect the lips, cheeks, and gums from cuts and abrasions caused by the teeth.
• Reduces Risk of Jaw Injuries: Wearing a mouthguard helps to stabilize the jaw, reducing the risk of fractures and other serious injuries.
• May Prevent Concussions: By absorbing some of the force of a blow to the jaw, a mouthguard can reduce the likelihood of a concussion or traumatic brain injury.

Orthodontic Patients and Sports Dentistry

For athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, taking extra care during sports is essential. Braces and other orthodontic appliances can pose additional risks for injury if proper precautions aren't taken.

Mouthguards for Braces

If you wear braces, it's even more critical to wear a mouthguard during sports. A special orthodontic mouthguard can be fitted to protect both the teeth and braces. Traditional mouthguards may not accommodate braces well, but orthodontic-specific options are designed to allow room for brackets while still providing protection.

• Custom-Fitted Orthodontic Mouthguards: These are specially designed for patients with braces. They ensure that the mouthguard fits properly and protects not only the teeth but also the orthodontic appliances. They can be adjusted as your teeth move during treatment.
• Stock Orthodontic Mouthguards: These are available at sporting goods stores and are designed to fit over braces. While they provide basic protection, they do not offer the samelevel of comfort and security as custom-fitted options.

Clear Aligners in Sports

For patients using clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, mouthguards are also essential. Aligners are generally removable, so it's recommended to take them out during sports and wear a mouthguard instead. After the game or practice, you can put your aligners back in. Leaving them in during sports increases the risk of damaging the aligners or injuring the soft tissues of your mouth.

What to Do in Case of a Dental Emergency

Even with the best protective measures, dental emergencies can still happen during sports.Knowing how to respond quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Tooth Avulsion (Knocked-Out Tooth)

If a tooth is knocked out during sports, it is essential to act fast. Here's what to do:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that is visible in the mouth), not the root.
• If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub or remove any tissue fragments.
• Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible.If that's not feasible, place the tooth in a container of milk or saline solution to preserve it.
• Seek emergency dental care immediately. Time is critical—ideally, the tooth should be reinserted within 30 minutes to increase the chances of saving it.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

If a tooth is fractured or chipped:

• Rinse the mouth with warm water.
• Save any broken pieces and bring them to the dentist.
• Apply a cold compress to the face to reduce swelling and pain.
• Contact a dentist right away to assess the damage and provide appropriate treatment.

Soft Tissue Injuries

For injuries to the lips, gums, or cheeks:

• Clean the area with warm water.
• Apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop any bleeding.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• If the bleeding doesn't stop within 15 minutes, seek immediate medical or dental care.

Fractured Jaw

In the case of a fractured jaw:

• Immobilize the jaw by wrapping a towel or handkerchief around the head.
• Apply a cold compress to minimize swelling.
• Seek emergency care as soon as possible.

Maintaining Oral Health for Active Athletes in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

In addition to protecting your teeth with a mouthguard, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for athletes. Here are some tips for keeping your mouth healthy during sports:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dry mouth and washes away food particles that can cause tooth decay.
• Avoid Sugary Sports Drinks: Sports drinks are often loaded with sugar, which can lead to cavities. Opt for water or sugar-free alternatives to keep your mouth and body healthy.
• Brush and Floss Regularly: Proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily, is key to preventing cavities and gum disease, especially for athletes who are often on the go.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Athletes should visit their dentist regularly to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy and to check for any signs of injury or wear caused by sports.

Conclusion

Sports dentistry plays an essential role in protecting the smiles of athletes of all ages, from children just starting out in sports to professional athletes. At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Dr. Natalie Lam is committed to providing comprehensive dental care, including custom-fitted mouthguards, for all of our athletic patients. By taking proactive steps to protect your teeth and seeking immediate care in the event of an injury, you can enjoy your favorite sports without compromising your oral health.

At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are committed to providing gentle, expert dental care. With two convenient locations at 875 Prospect St #202, La Jolla, CA 92037, and 10549 Scripps Poway Pkwy Suite E, San Diego, CA 92131, we make it easy to schedule an appointment that fits your family's busy lifestyle. Call us today at (858) 551-9700 for our La Jolla office or (858) 271-4200 for our San Diego location to book your next visit!