Dental trauma can strike when you least expect it, turning a regular day into a painful experience. Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL breaks down the leading causes of dental trauma and shares tips on how to keep your teeth safe.
Leading Causes of Dental Trauma
Sports Injuries
Playing sports is fantastic for your health, but it can be tough on your teeth. Whether it’s a flying elbow in basketball or a stray puck in hockey, sports injuries are a major cause of dental trauma.
Prevention Tip: Always wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during sports activities. It might feel a bit weird at first, but your teeth will thank you!
Accidents and Falls
Life happens, and sometimes it happens fast. Accidents like car crashes or a sudden slip can result in chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out teeth.
Prevention Tip: Buckle up in the car, install handrails at home, and stay cautious on slippery surfaces.
Physical Altercations
Nobody plans to get into a fight, but if it happens, your teeth can take a beating.
Prevention Tip: Avoid physical confrontations whenever possible and find peaceful ways to resolve conflicts.
Biting Hard Objects
We’ve all been there—biting into something a bit too hard and feeling that dreaded crack. Ice, popcorn kernels, and even pens can spell trouble for your teeth.
Prevention Tip: Stick to chewing food, and avoid using your teeth as tools. Your teeth aren’t nutcrackers!
Grinding and Clenching
Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can slowly wear them down, making them more prone to damage.
Prevention Tip: Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth, and try stress-relief techniques to reduce clenching.
Immediate Steps After Dental Trauma
If you do experience dental trauma, knowing what to do next can save your smile:
Stay Calm: Panicking won’t help; stay as calm as possible.
Save Any Fragments: If a tooth breaks, collect the pieces.
Handle With Care: Hold a knocked-out tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root.
Reinsert if Possible: If it’s a permanent tooth, try to gently put it back in its socket. If not, keep it in milk or saliva.
Seek Immediate Care: Contact Cary Family Dental right away for emergency help.
Trust Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL
Preventing dental trauma is all about being prepared and cautious. But if the unexpected happens, Dr. Niraj Patel and the team at Cary Family Dental are ready to help you get back on track. Whether it’s an emergency or just a check-up, we’re here to keep your smile shining bright. Reach out to us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.