To avoid such dental traumas, use of mouth guards, particularly when playing contact sports, or engaging in activities where a fall might take place, such as skateboarding or rollerblading. Mouth guards play a big role in preventing injuries.  People who grind or clench their teeth should also use them.

Dentists will make custom-fitted mouth guards, which are more effective than those sold at retail, which may not fit properly.

It’s also smart to avoid chewing on pencils, ice, popcorn kernels or other hard objects, which can crack or chip teeth.  And wear your seatbelt when riding in automobiles! Injuries caused by hitting the steering wheel or dashboard are quite common.

By practicing good oral health habits, and taking precautionary measures to avoid traumatic dental injuries, patients can save their teeth and produce a lifetime of smiles.