Dentist New Braunfels: Gear Up for Spring Sports & Dental Safety

Warm spring weather brings with it the excitement of outdoor sports, friendly competitions, and fun opportunities for kids and adults alike to stay active and healthy. Whether it’s baseball, soccer, or softball, the season is all about energy and excitement. 

But in the rush to gear up, dental safety often gets overlooked. At Sapphire Creek Dental, our dentist in New Braunfels is here to remind you: keeping your smile safe is just as important as scoring that winning goal. Let’s make oral health a part of your game plan.

Should Athletes Worry About Their Smiles?

Whether you’re a pro athlete or just playing for fun, dental injuries can happen when you least expect them. Every year, countless players experience chipped teeth, fractured jaws, or even lost permanent teeth—all from sports-related mishaps. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that the overall rate of dentofacial injuries in contact sports was 27%. Beyond the physical pain, these injuries can be emotionally draining and expensive to fix, especially if you require an emergency dentist.

Contact sports like football and even less intense games like soccer and basketball come with a high risk of face and mouth injuries. But don’t be fooled—non-contact sports like cycling or skateboarding can lead to unexpected falls and collisions too. That’s why taking steps to protect your smile isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Play hard, stay safe, and protect those pearly whites.

Why Sports Mouthguards Matter

One of the most effective ways to prevent dental injuries is by using a mouthguard. These protective devices act as a cushion, absorbing impact and protecting the teeth, gums, and jaw from trauma. Mouthguards are especially recommended for kids, whose growing permanent teeth are more vulnerable to damage—the Cleveland Clinic reports that the most common victims of knocked-out teeth are children aged 7 to 11. 

Our dentist in New Braunfels recommends custom-fitted mouthguards for unbeatable protection and comfort. Unlike store-bought options, sports mouthguards are designed just for you, providing a perfect fit that stays in place while making it easier to breathe and talk on the field. 

Tips to Keep Your Smile Strong During Sports Season 

While protecting your teeth on the field is key, keeping your smile healthy all year round is just as important. A stronger smile will be less prone to mishaps. Here are some easy, practical tips from our dentist in New Braunfels to keep your teeth in top shape this spring: 

• Hydrate Like a Pro: Water does double duty—not only keeping you refreshed but also rinsing away food particles and bacteria that can lead to decay. Ditch sugary sports drinks that damage enamel and go for the good stuff: H2O.
• Stick to the Basics: Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are your best defense against cavities and gum trouble. Staying on top of your oral hygiene is especially important after on-the-go snacks or meals. 
• Don’t Skip the Dentist: Regular checkups with our New Braunfels dentist are a game-changer. Early detection of potential issues and tips for avoiding sports-related dental injuries will keep you ahead of the game. 
• Upgrade Your Gear: A worn-out or ill-fitting mouthguard won’t do its job. If yours is looking rough or doesn’t fit right anymore, it’s time to trade up for better protection. Reach out to Sapphire Creek Dental for help.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency 

Accidents happen, even with the best precautions. Knowing how to handle a dental emergency can save the day and make all the difference. Here’s how our New Braunfels dentist recommends tackling common sports-related dental injuries.

Chipped or Broken Tooth 

Don’t panic! Rinse your mouth with warm water and try to save any broken pieces of the tooth to bring to our dentist. To keep swelling down, apply a cold compress to the area. Quick action means a better outcome. 

Knocked-Out Tooth 

Stay calm and act fast. Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root) and gently rinse it with water. If you can, carefully place it back in the socket and bite down gently on a clean cloth to hold it in place. Can’t reinsert it? No problem. Store it in milk or saliva and rush to our emergency dentist immediately. 

Soft Tissue Injuries 

Got a cut on your lips, tongue, or gums? Clean the area carefully with water and use a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. For severe injuries, don’t wait—get professional help right away.

We Help You Play with Confidence

At Sapphire Creek Dental, we’re here to keep you and your family active, healthy, and smiling with confidence. This spring, don’t forget sports safety measures. Book a visit with our dentist in New Braunfels today to learn more about custom mouthguards or schedule a checkup. We’ll keep your smile shining on and off the field.