Warm weather is on the horizon and we couldn’t be more excited to pull our bikes out of storage. We know you’re eager to run out and hit the trail, too, but hear us out for a moment! Dental experts estimate that injury during sports accounts for 13-39% of dental emergencies.
Those injuries can cause serious pain and damage to your smile. Fortunately, there’s an easy fix, just wear a mouth guard!
Use a Mouth Guard to Protect Your Smile During Spring Sports
Wearing a mouth guard is advised when you’re participating in a spring activity that involves blows to the head, flying equipment, or a risk of falling. In addition to direct impact, your teeth can also get damaged if you fall and your jaw slams shut or your teeth tap together. This can result in lost, broken, or chipped teeth.
Spring sports that should require a mouth guard include:
- Lacrosse
- Baseball
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Tennis
Riding Your Bike? Helmets are a Must!
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, We could save an average of $109-$142 million per year on medical costs if 85% of children wore helmets while biking. Falling off a bike typically causes your jaw to slam shut, which can be incredibly damaging to your teeth. Helmets diffuse the impact, protecting your smile. Wearing a helmet and a mouth guard at the same time is your best bet, as these will work together to protect your teeth.
BMJ Journals says just about 50% of children wear their helmets every time they bike. This number needs to be much closer to 100%! All people, young and old, need to protect their brains and their teeth with a helmet every time they bike.
Check out this page with Colorado’s bike laws and safety tips. This will help ensure you’re up-to-date on all the major rules, regulations, and safety advice.
Talk to Your Dentist
Prior to beginning spring sports, it’s important that you work out a plan for you or your child to keep teeth protected during spring activities. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us!