Dental trauma can be a very scary prospect for both a patient and a parent. Teeth are one of the most noticeable features on your face and a beautiful smile is something everyone likes to have. One of the simplest things you can do to protect your child is taking steps ahead of time to minimize risk. Proper use of mouthguards and other protective gear when playing sports goes a long way to keep their smiles intact.
What counts as dental trauma?
Dental trauma covers a wide range of injuries, from a small chip in a front tooth to a knocked-out tooth or a fractured jaw. Some of the most common causes we see include contact sports, falls from bikes or scooters, simple trips and tumbles (especially in toddlers still learning to walk and run), and accidental collisions during active play.
The best line of defense: mouthguards
If your child plays any contact or high-impact sport, a properly fitted mouthguard is one of the most effective things you can do to prevent dental trauma. A well-fitted mouthguard offers significantly better protection and stays securely in place during play. It is also more likely to be worn due to its superior fit. Children with braces will need specialized guards that fit over brackets and wires.
A few more everyday precautions
A few simple habits can reduce the risk of dental trauma even outside of organized sports. Always use age-appropriate helmets for biking, skating, or scootering. Childproof sharp furniture corners for toddlers who are still unsteady on their feet, supervise playground time (especially on climbing equipment), and encourage kids to avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy that can crack or chip teeth.
If an accident happens anyway
Even with the best precautions in place, accidents can still happen. If your child experiences a dental injury, our office offers emergency appointments. At Wilton Pediatric Dentistry we are committed not only to keeping your child’s teeth cavity-free but also whole and intact throughout their childhood.
Dr. Ashleigh Sebro is a Board-Certified pediatric dentist as well as the owner and founder of Wilton Pediatric Dentistry. She is committed to providing gentle and compassionate dental care to children with the hopes of creating a generation who is not scared of the dentist. Dr. Sebro has been recognized as one of the top 40 under 40 dentists in America for her dedication to pediatric dental health and her focus on prevention.