SPORTS INJURIES OF STOMATOGNATHIC SYSTEM WITH REFERENCE TO PREVENTION AND FIRST AID – REVIEW ARTICLE

Abstract

Introduction: Engaging in sports is crucial for maintaining and enhancing the health of both children and adults. However, it can also be a cause of injuries with temporary or permanent consequences. The primary causes of sports injuries are mechanical forces acting during intense physical exertion. A significant number of sports injuries involve the stomatognathic system, often occurring suddenly and unexpectedly, accompanied by pain and bleeding. The complexity of injuries depends on the type of sport, the athlete's age, and the force's strength, leading to serious aesthetic, functional, psychological, and economic consequences for the injured. Purpose of the study: The purpose of the study is to highlight the significant role of sports in physical and mental health, while also addressing potential injuries that may occur during sports activities, with a particular focus on dental and surrounding tissue injuries. The study emphasizes the importance of preventing traumatic and non-traumatic damage to dental tissues and surrounding structures through the mandatory use of sports mouthguards. Methods: This review article focuses on enriching knowledge about dental traumas caused by sports injuries, their prevention, and trends in the therapy of dentoalveolar traumas. Results: In this work, the authors aimed to briefly summarize, analyze, and present the latest available information from contemporary literature dealing with dentoalveolar traumas, including their causes, diagnosis, and treatment, while emphasizing the importance of prevention. Conclusion: Sports injuries, with a specific emphasis on injuries to the stomatognathic system, whether occurring in recreational or competitive sports, require a serious approach in terms of prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. The education of sports professionals, coaches, sports doctors, parents, and athletes themselves on providing first aid for the occurrence of dentoalveolar traumas is of great importance.