As the spring training crowds populate the valley and amateur spring sports are beginning, Dr. Allen of Phoenix Endodontic Group has some wise words to help players avoid dental injuries.
The speed and velocity of a thrown or hit fastball is certainly impressive, and can be a major danger to your beautiful teeth. Imagine this projectile hurtling towards you at speeds over 100mph. Losing your focus for even a second could potentially result in significant damage to your teeth and mouth. Dr. Allen identifies the most common baseball dental injuries as Avulsed (knocked-out) teeth and fractures of the teeth, which are painful and avoidable.
The best method of preventing dental injuries is very simple. WEAR A MOUTHGUARD. This is basically the only way to protect the teeth during contact sports, Dr. Allen warns. These are found at any store that carries sporting goods and should be considered a mandatory part of your equipment as a baseball player.
Should you suffer a knocked out tooth, a few tips may improve your chances of saving the tooth. First, retrieve the tooth gently, grasping it only by the chewing surface and never the root. Once the tooth has been acquired, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Do not scrub the tooth or clean it with anything other than a washed finger and clear water. Try to reinsert the tooth back into position if possible and keep it in place with your fingers or closed mouth. If you are not able to reinsert the tooth, store it in milk (or failing that, inside your cheek) and get to your Endodontist immediately. Do not let the tooth dry out or wrap it in napkins or cloth.
Dental injuries like cracked or fractured teeth should also be attended to as soon as possible to help avoid further deterioration of the tooth. Prompt attention generally results in a less complex repair process and better chances of saving the tooth.
Dental injuries are extremely preventable with a little precaution. Talk to Dr. Allen about protecting your teeth during baseball and similar sports. Should you suffer a dental emergency, the fantastic doctors and staff at Phoenix Endodontic Group will save the day!