Sports and Dentistry

Sports dentistry focuses on protecting teeth before an injury happens and managing dental trauma when it does. Contact and collision sports are obvious risks, but dental injuries can also occur in cycling, skateboarding, skiing and other activities where a fall or impact is possible.

Why wear a mouthguard?

A mouthguard helps absorb and distribute impact forces and can reduce the risk and severity of injuries to the teeth and surrounding tissues. Athletes in contact and collision sports should use a properly fitting mouthguard during practices as well as competition.

Custom versus store-bought mouthguards

Any appropriately worn mouthguard is generally better than no mouthguard. A custom mouthguard can provide a more precise fit and may improve comfort, retention and communication, which can make an athlete more likely to wear it consistently.

What if a tooth is knocked out?

A knocked-out permanent tooth is a true dental emergency. Handle the tooth by the crown rather than the root. If it is dirty, gently rinse it without scrubbing. Immediate replantation is often ideal when safe and feasible; otherwise keep the tooth moist in an appropriate medium such as milk and seek urgent dental care. Primary baby teeth should not be replanted.

What about a chipped or fractured tooth?

Fractures range from small enamel chips to injuries involving dentin, pulp or the root. Even a tooth that looks only slightly damaged may need evaluation if there is pain, sensitivity, mobility or a significant impact.

Can an athlete return to play?

Return-to-play decisions depend on the injury, treatment performed and the risk of another impact. A temporary protective restoration or modified mouthguard may sometimes be needed while the tooth heals.

Sports dentistry in Palo Alto

Dr. Sharma has experience caring for competitive athletes and can help with mouthguard planning, dental trauma evaluation and coordination with athletic medical teams when needed.

Request an appointment or call our office promptly after a dental injury.