Dental implants are a nearly permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both functionality and aesthetics that closely resemble natural teeth. For those who lead an active lifestyle, particularly those involved in sports, maintaining and protecting your dental implants is crucial.

Sports carry a risk of dental injuries. Whether you’re playing football, basketball, soccer or even participating in non-contact activities like cycling or running, accidents can happen. Dental implants, like natural teeth, require protection to prevent damage. Ensuring your implants stay intact not only preserves your smile but also maintains your oral health and overall well-being. Here’s how to keep them safe:

• Wear a mouthguard: One of the most effective ways to protect your dental implants during sports is by wearing a mouthguard. Mouthguards act as a cushion, absorbing impacts and reducing the risk of injury to your teeth and jaw. There are multiple types of mouthguards available, including custom-fitted guards made by your Fioritto dentist. Invest in the best quality mouthguard you can to protect your implants.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Keeping your dental implants and surrounding teeth clean is essential for overall oral health, especially when you’re active in sports. Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup and ensure your gums stay healthy. Healthy gums are better able to support both natural teeth and implants, thus reducing the risk of complications if you sustain impact to your mouth.
• Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated is important for maintaining saliva flow, which helps keep your mouth clean and reduces the risk of bacterial infections. Sports can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water before, during and after sports activities to support your oral and overall health.
• Regular check-ups: Regular visits to your Fioritto Family dentist and follow up with your Cleveland Implant Institute post-implant appointments are crucial for monitoring your implant. Your dentist can check for signs of wear or damage and provide professional cleanings to keep your mouth in top condition. Make sure to inform your dentist and Dr. Mike about your sports activities, so they can offer tailored advice on protecting your implants.
• Avoid harmful habits: Habits such as chewing on ice, biting your nails or using your teeth as tools can weaken your dental implants and make them more susceptible to damage when playing sports. Be mindful of these habits and try to avoid them to maintain the integrity of your implants.

Sports-specific mouthguard considerations

Here are some helpful mouthguard tips for playing sports with implants:

• Contact sports: For high-impact sports like football, hockey or martial arts, a custom-fit mouthguard is highly recommended due to the higher risk of direct blows to the face.
• Non-contact sports: Even in non-contact sports like cycling, running or gymnastics, accidents can occur. Wearing a mouthguard can still provide valuable protection against unexpected falls or collisions.
• Water sports: If you participate in water sports, ensure your mouthguard is designed to stay secure even when wet. Regularly check the fit and condition of your mouthguard, as exposure to water can sometimes affect its integrity.

Playing sports with dental implants doesn’t have to be a concern, as long as you take the right precautions. Remember, safeguarding your smile ensures your dental health for years to come.

To learn more about dental implants, reach out to the Cleveland Implant Institute today.