How to Help Prevent Oral Injuries
General Safety Tips from Hampstead Dental
Oral injuries can result from accidents, sports, or everyday habits—and while they can’t always be avoided, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk. Whether you’re involved in sports or simply going about your daily routine, protecting your teeth and soft tissues is an important part of maintaining long-term oral health.
At Hampstead Dental, we support a preventive approach to dental care. The following information offers general safety guidelines to help reduce the likelihood of dental injuries. Please speak with a dental professional for personalised advice.
1. Use a Mouthguard for Contact Sports
Sports such as AFL, rugby, hockey, basketball, and martial arts may carry a risk of facial impact. A mouthguard can help absorb shock and protect the teeth and jaw. Custom-fitted mouthguards, provided by a dental professional, are designed to suit your specific mouth shape and may offer greater comfort than over-the-counter alternatives.
2. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools
Using teeth to open bottles, tear packaging, or cut items can lead to chipping or cracking. It’s best to use appropriate tools for these tasks to reduce the risk of injury to teeth and supporting tissues.
3. Be Cautious with Certain Foods
Hard foods such as ice cubes, nuts, or hard confectionery may increase the risk of dental trauma. Sticky foods can potentially dislodge restorations such as fillings or crowns. Consider enjoying these foods in moderation and with care.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy can reduce the likelihood of injury. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly supports oral health and strengthens the structures that protect your mouth.
5. Take Care of Dental Appliances
If you wear orthodontic appliances such as braces or retainers, it’s important to follow your dentist’s care instructions. Avoiding certain foods and maintaining hygiene around appliances can help reduce the risk of injury or damage.
6. Use Protective Gear During High-Risk Activities
Activities such as skateboarding, cycling, or rollerblading may increase the chance of facial injury. Helmets, faceguards, or mouthguards can provide added protection.
7. Seek Dental Care for Pain or Injury
Pain, sensitivity, or visible damage to the mouth should be assessed by a dental practitioner. Timely care may help prevent complications and promote recovery.
8. Encourage Oral Safety Awareness
Sharing oral safety knowledge with family—especially children and teens—can help build lifelong habits and reduce the risk of preventable dental injuries.
9. Stay Hydrated
Water supports saliva production, which plays a protective role in oral health. Staying hydrated can help maintain a healthy oral environment and reduce the risk of dry mouth, which may be associated with increased vulnerability to oral health issues.
10. Ask About Night Guards for Teeth Grinding
If you clench or grind your teeth during sleep (a condition known as bruxism), a custom-fitted occlusal splint may be recommended to help protect teeth from wear or fracture. Your dentist can assess whether this is suitable for you.
Protecting Your Oral Health
While not all oral injuries are preventable, taking reasonable precautions and attending regular dental check-ups can help reduce your risk. If you’re unsure how to protect your teeth during specific activities or have concerns about oral habits, a qualified dental professional can provide guidance tailored to your needs.
Disclaimer: The information provided is general in nature and does not substitute individual clinical advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
