Common Sports-Related Dental Emergencies

Each season brings with it a new set of potential sports-related dental emergencies. Between 13% and 39% of dental emergencies occur during a game. That’s one reason emergency dental services in Bradenton, FL, are so critical to our patients. Often, the key to saving a tooth or preventing further damage is fast dental treatment.

Common Dental Traumas

Several injuries can occur to teeth while playing sports, particularly in high-impact games such as basketball, hockey, or football.

Avulsion

When an intact tooth is knocked out of the mouth, an emergency dentist has a short window to restore it, typically from 30 minutes to one hour. If possible, store the tooth in a container with milk or saliva, or use a tooth-saving first aid kit. You can also reinsert the tooth back into the socket and keep it there until you visit the dentist.

Fracture

A tooth fracture is also a dental emergency, commonly associated with sports. Collect as much of the tooth as you can find. If there is swelling, apply a cold compress to the face and see your dentist in Bradenton, FL, as soon as possible.

You would also need to see your dentist for a fracture or dislocation of the jaw. If you have other injuries or head trauma, go to the emergency room first.

Dislodged Tooth

If your tooth moves in the mouth, leave it in place. If necessary, apply a cold compress to your face as you head to the dentist’s office.

Soft Tissue Trauma

Soft tissue injuries would be cuts or tears of the lips, gums, or tongue. They only require emergency treatment if they bleed excessively and won’t stop, or if the pain is severe and does not get better with over-the-counter pain relievers.

If you have questions about sport-related dental emergencies, prevention, or first aid, give our dentist in Bradenton, FL, a call to make an appointment. We also offer 24/7 phone support for dental emergencies.