If you play sports it's important that you protect your teeth. Certain sports put your teeth more at risk than others, but you always want to make sure you are doing what you can to protect your teeth from impact and injury. Following the tips below will help you keep your teeth protected when you participate in sports:

Wear the proper protective gear

One of the best things you can do to protect your teeth while participating in sports is to wear properly-fitted protective gear. A mouth guard is a piece of equipment which is molded to fit your mouth to protect both your mouth and teeth in case of impact. The best way to know your mouth guard fits properly is to go to your dentist for one.

You want to wear the mouth guard during games, but it should also be worn during practices if there is still a chance of impact with an object. It's a good idea to have two mouth guards so you have a spare if something happens to one of them. You shouldn't play if you don't have your mouth guard with you.

If the sport you participate in also calls for a helmet, you want to make sure you wear a helmet that fits properly and is rated for the sport you play in. A helmet can be damaged or weakened without showing damage on the outside. This is why it's important to have it replaced if it sustains a hard hit. Not only will the helmet protect your head and face, but it also serves as an extra form of protection for your mouth and teeth.

Have an emergency dental kit with you

When you know you play in sports that increase your chances of having a dental emergency, you want to be prepared. Put together an emergency dental kit and keep it with you in your sports bag. The kit should consist of an instant cold ice pack, an over the counter pain reliever, gauze, a clean rag, a mirror and the business cards or phone numbers of both your dentist and a 24 hour emergency dentist.

If you are going to be out of the area playing, then you should prepare yourself with the number of a 24 hour dentist in that area as well.

By following the information detailed above, you will know you are doing your part to reduce your chances of dealing with a dental emergency. You'll also be well-prepared in case you do experience an emergency and need general dentistry quickly.