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Pediatric Dentistry Services

Athletic Dentistry

Protecting and supporting active smiles in New Tampa, FL.

Pediatric dental care at Dr Duga Dr Feeney and Associates

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Protecting and Supporting Active Smiles

At Dr Duga Dr Feeney and Associates Pediatric Dentistry, athletic dentistry focuses on protecting your child's teeth during sports and physical activity while supporting overall oral health and performance. Whether your child participates in organized sports or recreational activities, preventive strategies can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries.

We care for active families across New Tampa and surrounding neighborhoods, including Tampa Palms, Hunters Green, West Meadows, Richmond Place, Cory Lake Isles, and Arbor Greene, offering practical solutions that align with your child's lifestyle.

What Is Athletic Dentistry?

Athletic dentistry is a specialized area of dental care focused on preventing, managing, and treating sports-related dental injuries. It combines preventive protection with prompt care when injuries occur. For growing children, protecting developing teeth is especially important during active years.

This approach helps:

  • Reduce the risk of dental trauma
  • Protect teeth and soft tissues during activity
  • Support jaw stability and comfort
  • Provide guidance for injury prevention

Preventing Sports-Related Dental Injuries

Prevention is the most effective way to avoid dental emergencies during sports. Many injuries can be minimized or avoided entirely with the right protective measures. These steps help protect against common injuries such as chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth.

We often recommend:

Treatment for Sports-Related Injuries

If a dental injury occurs, prompt care is essential to achieve the best outcome. Our team is prepared to evaluate and treat a wide range of sports-related concerns. For urgent situations, families can also rely on our Dental Emergencies services for timely care.

Treatment options may include:

Why Athletic Dentistry Matters for Children

Children involved in sports are at a higher risk for dental injuries due to contact, falls, and fast-paced activity. Taking preventive steps helps protect both oral health and overall well-being. Athletic dentistry is an important part of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Key benefits include:

Lower Trauma Risk

Lower risk of dental trauma.

Protects Development

Protection of developing teeth and jaw structures.

Fewer Emergencies

Reduced need for emergency or restorative treatments.

Play with Confidence

Increased confidence during sports participation.

A Preventive Approach

A Comprehensive Preventive Strategy

Athletic dentistry is most effective when combined with a broader preventive care plan. Our team takes a comprehensive approach to ensure your child's oral health is fully supported—including ongoing care through our preventive care services, protective treatments tailored to your child's level of activity, and monitoring for any signs of wear, injury, or stress on teeth. By integrating these strategies, we help reduce risks and support long-term oral health.

Experienced Care for Active Patients

Our team understands the unique needs of children who lead active lifestyles. We provide guidance that balances protection, comfort, and performance, ensuring your child can participate confidently in their activities.

For families seeking experienced care, Shawna Adams-Feeney, DMD offers a thoughtful, prevention-focused approach to protecting young athletes and supporting healthy development.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

While not all sports require it, mouthguards are strongly recommended for contact and high-impact activities to reduce injury risk.
Common injuries include chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, and soft tissue injuries to the lips and gums.
Yes, custom guards provide a better fit, improved comfort, and more effective protection.
Contact our office immediately and refer to our Dental Emergencies page for guidance.
Sports guards should be evaluated regularly and replaced as your child grows or if the guard becomes worn.
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Start Your Child's Journey to a Healthy Smile

Your child's oral health plays a vital role in their overall well-being. At Dr Duga Dr Feeney and Associates Pediatric Dentistry, we are here to support your family with trusted expertise and a welcoming, child-focused environment.