Sports Medicine and Fitness

Track 10: Sports Dentistry

The FDI World Dental Federation defines this subdivision of dentistry as "the branch of sports medicine dealing with prevention and treatment of dental injuries and oral diseases associated with sports and exercise." Injuries are, unfortunately, commonplace in sports. Sprained ankles, torn ligaments, concussions and broken bones are some of the most common and also the ones that first come to mind of athletes and fans. But an injury that affects an athlete's oral health can be just as serious. Tongue and cheek injuries are common too. Small chips and cracks in teeth can be repaired. Even a knocked out tooth can be salvaged by seeking immediate dental assistance. Two of the best means of protection against oral injuries are through the use of helmets and mouth guards.