Participating in sports is a great way to stay in shape, hone new skills, and learn to play as part of a team. As an athlete, finding ways to improve your game while staying healthy and injury-free is imperative. Oral surgeons, in particular, remind patients to be cognizant of facial trauma to avoid the need for emergency jaw surgery. To better understand the risks and how to maintain your safety, here’s some helpful information on jaw injuries.

What are Some Common Sports Injuries That Require Jaw Surgery?

The most common facial injuries seen in athletes beyond broken teeth are fractures of the lower or upper jaw. Typically, this type of injury is caused by blunt force as a result of running into another player, getting hit with a ball or apparatus, or a fall.

Signs you should see an oral surgeon include jaw pain, bruising, swelling, headaches, oral bleeding, nausea, and trouble opening and closing your mouth. Depending on the severity of the fracture, oral surgery might be necessary to restore functionality. This could include placing screws and plates, then wiring the jaw shut for several weeks to allow the joint time to heal.

How Can Athletes Protect Their Jaw?

Whether you’re an avid mountain biker, boxer, or soccer player, it’s important to be mindful of your jaw and protect it while you’re exploring athletic pursuits. Embrace protective equipment such as mouthguards, helmets, and faceguards, depending on the sport. Avoid taking unnecessary risks or playing in an aggressive manner that could leave your jaw susceptible to injury. If you’re prone to oral health issues, talk to your dental team about the sports you play and ask for recommendations on how to minimize the risk of getting hurt. For instance, they could fit you with a custom-made mouthguard to help protect your teeth. In addition, don’t hesitate to call an oral surgeon if you’re experiencing jaw pain as a result of physical activity. 

If you’re an athlete in the greater Anchorage, AK, area and you’ve recently experienced facial trauma, the team at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska can help. If your injury requires jaw surgery, they’ll provide compassionate, efficient, and effective care to reduce your downtime and help restore movement. They also offer a range of other treatments, including bone grafting, wisdom teeth removal, and dental implants. Call today at (907) 561-1430 to schedule a consultation for jaw surgery and visit their website for more information on their specialties.