Remember accidents do happen! Your knowing what to do and when to do it can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. There are a number of simple precautions that you can take to avoid accidents and injuries to your child's teeth. One way to reduce the chances of damage to his/her teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue is to have your child wear a mouthguard when participating in sports or recreational activities. Have your child avoid chewing ice cubes, popcorn kernels, and hard candy which can crack a tooth or filling.