Sports injuries are common in young children. However, while you might expect the occasional bumps, bruises, or sprains, there's also a risk for dental injuries. Whether your child falls or collides with another player, they should see an emergency children's dentist as soon as possible — even if there aren't any visible injuries. To help protect your young athlete's smile, here is a guide to the most common dental injuries and how to prevent them.

What Injuries Do Emergency Children's Dentists Often See?

Displaced Tooth

Losing a baby tooth might not seem like a cause for concern, but problems can arise if it gets knocked out before it is loose or ready to come out. The impact can damage the root, gum tissue, or the still-forming permanent tooth. An emergency children's dentist can identify these issues and, in some cases, even restore the tooth. If it falls out, place the piece in a sealed bag with milk, and keep it cold until you get to the dentist.

Cracked Tooth

A crack exposes the inner part of the tooth to bacteria, which often leads to infection or decay. Even if you can't see the fracture, your child can have sharp pain when biting, sudden sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and pain that comes and goes. After an incident, take your young one to a dentist immediately.

Fractured Root

Children can also sustain invisible but still serious sports injuries to their teeth. Therefore, have a dentist check for a fractured root any time your child gets hit in the mouth. While your young one may not have any immediate symptoms, this injury can cause an infection that spreads to the tooth's surface. Luckily, prompt treatment can prevent this.

How Do You Prevent Dental Injuries in Sports?

All children should wear custom-fitted mouthguards when playing sports to avoid injuries. While stock options can be effective, they can also feel awkward, so many kids are reluctant to use them. A custom mouthguard made by the dentist is fitted precisely, making it the more comfortable alternative.

Wearing a helmet can also help a kid avoid dental injuries. This equipment can prevent head, jaw, and dental injuries by absorbing impact when it fits properly. Make sure your child wears a helmet during both games and practices. 

If your child is injured while playing sports, visit Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage to make an appointment with an emergency children's dentist. Dr. Chris Coplin and his skilled team will reassure your child while diagnosing and treating their injuries. Call (907) 274-2525 to make an appointment, and visit the website to learn more about their emergency services.