Sports are a great way to get some fresh air and some exercise but, they can also be a great way to get hurt if you’re not careful. It’s easy to think about how to protect our bodies and to utilize protective gear, like helmets, shoulder pads, or kneepads, but there are plenty of sports enthusiasts who forget about protecting a part of their body that’s equally important: their teeth!
So whether you’re an adult going out to shoot some hoops or a kid playing in their next rec league soccer game, keep the following tips in mind.
1. A MOUTHGUARD SHOULD BE PART OF YOUR UNIFORM
Most sports mouthguards are designed to cover your top teeth which, in turn, protects all of your teeth from chipping or breaking, and protects your tongue and jaw from being accidentally bitten. Sports mouthguards can be purchased at a variety of different stores, and come in varieties designed to fit different mouth sizes and for players with and without braces.
2. SUGARY DRINKS SHOULDN’T MAKE THE CUT
Not only do sugary drinks not quench your thirst, but they encourage bacteria growth. Sugar promotes the production of acid which can wear down your enamel and increase your chances of getting cavities. Water is the best hydrator but, if you want something flavored, go for an alow-sugar sports drink.
3. PRACTICE GOOD ORAL HYGIENE AT HOME
As an athlete, you know that practice makes perfect. Applying this same mentality to your oral health routine is just one more way to ensure your teeth are strong and healthy and cut down on the likelihood of them being weak or brittle enough to break as a result of a sports accident. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to maintain a healthy smile!
4. SCORE A CHECKUP WITH YOUR DENTIST TWICE A YEAR
Not only do regular visits help keep your teeth clean and healthy, but they can also help catch potential issues before they turn into bigger problems. And, of course, if you need to see your dentist in between your regularly scheduled cleanings, don’t hesitate to schedule another appointment!
If you need help with a sports injury that damaged your teeth, or if you’re just ready for a checkup, give the team at Salling & Tate a call at 910-256-9040.
