The Connection Between Hockey and Dental Injuries

Hockey is one of Canada’s most beloved sports, known for its fast-paced action, physicality, and excitement. While it’s an exhilarating sport, it also comes with its fair share of risks, especially when it comes to dental injuries. Whether you’re a recreational player or a professional, hockey players are at a higher risk of sustaining oral injuries due to the high-contact nature of the game. At Parkside Village Dental, we believe in the importance of protecting your smile while enjoying the sport. This guide will help you understand the connection between hockey and dental injuries and provide valuable tips for preventing damage to your teeth and gums.

Common Dental Injuries in Hockey

Hockey is a high-contact sport where players are often involved in collisions, falls, and stick or puck hits. As a result, dental injuries are relatively common among players. Some of the most common dental injuries in hockey include:

• Tooth Fractures: A direct blow to the mouth can cause teeth to crack or break. Even minor fractures can cause discomfort and may require restorative treatment to restore the tooth’s structure.
• Tooth Avulsion (Knocked-Out Teeth): A hard hit to the mouth can cause a tooth to be completely knocked out of its socket. This is a severe injury that requires immediate attention from a dentist to try and re-implant the tooth or explore other options, such as a dental implant.
• Tooth Displacement: A blow to the face can cause teeth to shift or become loose. In some cases, this can lead to misalignment and require orthodontic treatment to correct the position.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: A puck or stick can also cause lacerations or bruising to the lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue, which may require stitches or other treatments.
• Jaw Fractures: A strong impact to the jaw can lead to fractures, which may also result in misalignment and long-term issues with chewing or speaking.

These injuries not only cause pain and discomfort but can also lead to long-term consequences, such as tooth loss, misalignment, and difficulty eating or speaking. The good news is that many of these injuries can be prevented with the right precautions.

How to Protect Your Smile While Playing Hockey

While it may be impossible to avoid every collision or hit during a game, there are several strategies to help minimize your risk of dental injuries. One of the most important steps is to wear the right protective gear. Let’s take a look at some key ways to protect your smile on the ice.

1. Wear a Properly Fitting Mouthguard

A mouthguard is the most effective way to protect your teeth and mouth from injury during a hockey game. A high-quality, custom-fitted mouthguard can cushion blows to the mouth and jaw, preventing damage to your teeth, gums, and soft tissues.

• Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards: While store-bought mouthguards may seem convenient, custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best protection. These are tailored to fit your mouth perfectly and offer superior comfort, making it easier to breathe and speak during the game. Custom mouthguards are made by your dentist and are designed to absorb impact and evenly distribute pressure, reducing the likelihood of injury.
• Professional Protection: At Parkside Village Dental Clinic, we can create a custom mouthguard specifically for your needs, ensuring maximum protection during every game.

2. Use Face Shields or Full-Face Protection

While mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth, additional face protection can further reduce the risk of injury. Some leagues or individuals choose to wear face shields or full-face cages that cover the mouth, nose, and eyes. These shields help protect not only the teeth but also the soft tissues of the face from pucks, sticks, and collisions.

• Face Shields vs. Cages: A full face shield provides a clear view of the game while protecting the face, while a cage offers the most protection from pucks and sticks. While both options have their advantages, the key is to choose the one that makes you feel most comfortable and protected.

3. Maintain a Strong Oral Hygiene Routine

A good oral hygiene routine is important for all players, as healthy teeth are less likely to suffer from injuries. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups help ensure that your teeth are strong and resilient to impact. Additionally, if you have any pre-existing dental issues, such as cavities or weak teeth, addressing them before you play can prevent further damage in the event of a collision.

At Parkside Village Dental Clinic, we recommend seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to keep your smile in top condition. If you have had previous dental work done, such as fillings, crowns, or implants, make sure to follow up with your dentist to ensure everything is secure and properly maintained.

4. Stay in Good Physical Condition

Maintaining good physical fitness and agility is essential for minimizing the risk of falls, collisions, and other accidents that can lead to dental injuries. Conditioning exercises, stretching, and strength training can help you stay balanced on the ice and avoid situations where you might get hit in the face.

What to Do if a Dental Injury Occurs

Even with the best precautions in place, accidents can still happen. If you experience a dental injury while playing hockey, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what to do if you sustain a dental injury:

• If a Tooth is Knocked Out: If your tooth is knocked out, try to locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the top part) rather than the root. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub it. Place the tooth back into its socket if possible or store it in a container of milk until you can see a dentist. The quicker you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
• If You Have a Tooth Fracture: If your tooth is cracked or chipped, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the injury, your dentist may recommend bonding, crowns, or other restorative treatments.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: If you sustain cuts or bruising to your lips, gums, or cheeks, apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and seek medical attention if necessary.

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Protect Your Smile

Hockey is an exciting sport, but it’s important to prioritize your dental health and safety. By wearing a custom mouthguard, using face protection, maintaining good oral hygiene, and staying in top physical condition, you can significantly reduce your risk of dental injuries. In the event of an injury, prompt action can make all the difference in preserving your smile.

At Parkside Village Dental Clinic, we’re here to help you protect your teeth both on and off the ice. If you need a custom mouthguard or have concerns about past injuries, our team of dental professionals is ready to assist. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help keep your smile safe while you enjoy the game you love!