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Spring Sports- First Aid for Dental Emergencies


spring sports dental first aid

Spring sports season has begun, and that means kids of all ages will be running, kicking, tackling and scoring while parents cheer on the sidelines. Spring sports also bring the risk of dental injuries and emergencies. Dr. Babaloui often sees an increase in dental injuries and emergency dental appointments during this time of year. A+ Dental is always here if you need us, but there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to dental safety and first aid.

Most dental injuries occur as a result of sports accidents and car accidents. The best way to protect your teeth from a stray ball is to wear a sports mouth guard. Some mouth guards are available in sporting goods stores, but Dr. B. recommends a custom mouth guard with a perfect fit.

If you suffer a dental injury, such as a broken tooth or even a possible broken jaw, the recommended first aid should be to apply a cold compress for control of swelling. Over the counter pain relievers are also recommended as needed. Contact Dr. Babaloui right away to request an emergency dental appointment.

Knocking out a tooth can be very scary. If you or your child knocks out a tooth, try to find it right away. Rinse off any dirt very carefully with clean water. Be careful not to remove any tissue fragments from the surface of the tooth. The best thing you can do is place the tooth back into the socket. If this is not possible, place the tooth into a glass of milk. It is very important to see Dr. Babaloui immediately after the accident in order to increase the success of tooth re-implantation.

We at A+ Dental are concerned about dental safety this spring, and want you to stay healthy, stay active and have fun! The American Dental Association provides very good Dental First Aid instructions, which you can print out here and keep in your equipment bag, along with a First Aid Kit.

As we get into full swing this spring, we at A+ Dental in Carrollton wish all of our patients and friends a winning season. Stay safe, have fun, and remember to brush!

Dental First Aid Instructions:

Knocked-Out Tooth

Hold the tooth by the crown, and gently rinse off the root of the tooth in water if it is dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently reinsert and hold the tooth in it’s socket. If that is not possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk. The sooner you can do any of these things, the better because it helps keep the small attachment fibers on the root of the tooth alive.

Try to get to the dentist within an hour, if you can. Don’t forget to bring the tooth with you!

Toothache

Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Use dental floss to remove any food that may be trapped between the teeth. Never put an aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissue.

See your dentist as soon as possible. Over the counter pain relievers may be used, but in moderation and never for longer than a week.

Broken Tooth:

Rinse the mouth with warm water to keep the area clean. Put cold compresses on the face to reduce swelling. See your dentist immediately.

Bitten Tongue or Lip

Clean the area gently with a cloth, and place cold compresses to keep the swelling down. If bleeding is excessive or does not stop in a short period of time, go to your dentist or hospital emergency room.

Objects Caught Between Teeth

Gently try to remove the object with dental floss. If you are not successful, go to the dentist. Do not try to remove the object with a sharp or pointed instrument.

Possible Broken Jaw

Apply a cold compress to the face to control swelling. Go to your dentist or

hospital emergency room immediately.

Sources: American Dental Association

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