Sports Dentistry Specialist

What is Sports Dentistry?

Sports dentistry is a branch of dentistry focused on preventing and treating dental emergencies that can occur during sports or exercise. At Academy Dental, Dr. Thind can provide custom mouthguards, emergency dental services, or prevention advice regarding dental safety for athletics.

How Do I Prevent Tooth Fractures and Chips When Playing Sports?

The most effective way to prevent dental emergencies during sports, such as chipped or cracked teeth, is wearing mouthguards. Mouthguards assist in preventing injury to your mouth, teeth, lips, and cheeks by creating a protective barrier between your mouth and the force you come in contact with. This helps by absorbing the impact to the mouth, significantly reducing the amount of force placed on your teeth and jaw. There are three types of mouthguards that you can purchase: generic, boil-and-bite, or customized. The different types vary in comfort, price, and efficacy, however all will provide some level of protection during sports.

What Are Custom Mouthguards?

A custom mouthguard is a mouthguard specifically created by your dentist to fit your teeth and your needs. When being fitted for a custom mouthguard your dentist will take a mold of your teeth, which then allows a highly durable, and perfectly shaped mouthguard to be created. The mouthguards will fit perfectly in your mouth, therefore eliminating any sliding or discomfort.

Do I Need a Custom Mouthguard?

Custom mouthguards are highly recommended, especially if you consistently play a contact sport, for example boxing, field hockey, football, ice hockey, or lacrosse. While other forms of mouthguards do provide some protection, custom mouthguards better protect your teeth because they are specifically created to suit your mouth. The customization also enhances the comfort of the device, enabling you to more easily breathe and focus on the game. Also, by owning a mouthguard that fits you perfectly, you will be more likely to wear it, reducing your chances of having a dental emergency and having to pay for treatment.

What Happens if I Chip or Crack my Tooth While Playing Sports?

If you do find yourself with a dental emergency from a sport, Academy Dental will be able to help you. An injury is considered a dental emergency if it requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, stop tissue bleeding, or save a tooth. This includes a painful chipped/cracked tooth, a knocked-out tooth, a swollen jaw, uncontrollable bleeding, or dislodged crowns/fillings. In any of these cases, seek help immediately by calling Academy Dental or booking an appointment online.

If you live in or near Hamilton or East Orange, NJ, and would like to discuss the benefits of sports dentistry with a dentist near you, call Academy Dental or request an appointment online today.