Sports help kids stay fit and teach valuable life lessons, like discipline and cooperation. However, playing sports can sometimes lead to serious injuries; for example, facial trauma might require oral surgery to remedy. To keep your child safe, learn about potential injuries and how they can be prevented.

Types of Facial Trauma That May Occur During Sports

Tooth injuries are common in sports. A tooth may become chipped and cracked on impact, or it might be knocked out altogether. In some cases, it’s possible to replace the tooth in the socket. However, dental implants might be recommended if the tooth is broken or can’t be restored.

If an oral soft tissue injury occurs, such as a laceration on the inside of the cheek, immediate attention is required to reduce the risk of infection.

If a jaw fracture occurs, oral surgery will ensure the mouth functions properly after it heals. This may involve wiring the jaw, so it remains stable while healing.

Tips for a Safe Experience

All children playing contact sports should wear helmets to protect their heads from collisions on the field. Helmets not only protect the face but also absorb impact to prevent concussions.

To protect the teeth, young athletes should wear mouthguards. A dentist can design a custom mouthguard for optimum protection. 

If your child experiences facial trauma as a result of sports, seek help from Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska in Anchorage. Their board-certified oral surgeons take the time to discuss surgical procedures with young patients and their parents. They also use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, like the I-CAT 3-Dimensional Imaging CT Scan, for the most accurate evaluations. Visit them online to learn more about the treatment options for facial trauma. You can also call (907) 561-1430 to schedule an appointment today.