Dental implants are considered the gold standard solution for tooth loss because they mimic both a natural tooth’s function and appearance. So those who are missing teeth for any reason, are able to get dental implants. This is even true for most athletes as well, including professional athletes, collegiate athletes, and those who play sports for hobbies. In most cases, a dental implant is still the best solution for a missing tooth, but certain sports may require a patient to check with their doctor first.
Replacing a Knocked Out Tooth
It is not uncommon for athletes to have one or more teeth knocked out during their careers. While this is always a bad thing to have happen, accidents unfortunately cannot be predicted and these athletes will have to find a solution. When a tooth is knocked out from a sport or oral trauma, athletes should look into replacing it as soon as possible. While it is possible to live with tooth loss, most doctors do not recommend it because it can lead to jaw bone deterioration, shifting teeth, a decline in self-esteem and the inability to eat or speak properly. A dental implant will provide an athlete with the closest thing to a real tooth and the security in the jaw that they will no longer need to worry about that tooth either.
How to Prevent Further Tooth Damage
If an athlete has lost a tooth and replaced it with a dental implant, or they are worried about having teeth damaged or knocked out, wearing a mouth guard is the best solution to protect your teeth while playing sports. A mouth guard protects the teeth from impact and also controls your bite, preventing teeth from smashing down onto each other and cracking or chipping. Avoiding certain contact sports like boxing, MMA, or other activities that involve contact to the face will help keep both natural teeth and dental implants in place.
Why Choose a Dental Implant?
Implants offer athletes a more natural quality of life over other tooth replacement options. Solutions like a flipper or denture will need to be removed prior to sporting events, and a dental bridge can crack or break. A dental implant is just as strong as a natural tooth, so once healed, protecting it like your other teeth will ensure it stays healthy, no matter the sport you play. Implants are also secure in the mouth, being held in place by the jaw bone, meaning an athlete won’t need to worry about taking it out ever.
Get a Consultation Today
If you’ve lost a tooth from a sporting event, schedule an appointment today to get started replacing it with a dental implant! We invite you to meet our experienced and friendly doctor, Dr. Nick Brand, in our office in Ocala, FL!
