Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
Broken teeth on the basketball court. A knocked-out tooth at soccer practice. Sports-related dental injuries happen fast, and they can leave you scrambling. Whether you’re an athlete or a parent of one, it is time to think about how to protect your smile.
This blog breaks down the most common traumatic dental injuries from sport activities, how to respond when they happen, and how to prevent them no matter your age.
We are always accepting new patients at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
If you or your child plays sports, protect your smile like you would any other part of your body. Custom mouthguards, fast action, and regular dental checkups can prevent lasting damage. If a dental injury happens, Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to help with emergency care and ongoing support at any of our convenient locations near you.
Most Common Sports-Related Dental Injuries
Any activity with speed or physical contact can lead to orofacial injuries. These are the most common dental injuries we see in teens, adults, and professional athletes:
- Chipped or cracked teeth: Impact with a ball, elbow, or pavement can cause part of the tooth to break off.
- Knocked-out teeth (avulsions): One of the most severe injuries, this requires immediate care.
- Dislodged or loose teeth: Teeth may be pushed sideways or jammed back into the socket.
- Fractured roots or jaw: Blunt trauma can cause deep cracks in tooth roots or even fractures in the jawbone.
- Lip or tongue injuries: Biting down on soft tissue during a fall or hit can cause bleeding and pain.
What To Do If a Dental Injury Happens
If you or your child takes a hit to the mouth during a game, the first few minutes are crucial. Here is what to do:
1. Stay calm
It is easier said than done, but panic makes things harder. Take a breath and focus on what needs to happen next.
2. Check the injury
Is there bleeding? Swelling? A tooth that is loose, chipped, or missing? If something looks or feels off, call your dentist right away. Treat it like an emergency.
3. If a tooth is knocked out
- Pick it up by the top (the crown), not the root.
- Rinse gently with milk or saline if it is dirty, do not scrub.
- If it is a permanent tooth, try to place it back in the socket.
- If you cannot, store it in milk and get to a dentist as quickly as possible.
4. Manage pain and swelling
A cold compress can help with swelling. You can also use age-appropriate pain relief until you get to the dentist.
5. Follow up
Even if the tooth looks okay, it is smart to have it checked. Small chips or minor soreness can lead to bigger problems if ignored
How to Prevent Sports-Related Dental Injuries
The best protection is prevention. Start with a well-fitted mouthguard and proper protective equipment.
- Use a custom mouthguard: Store-bought guards are better than nothing, but custom ones protect better and are easier to talk and breathe with.
- Wear helmets when biking, skateboarding, or skiing: Helmets help prevent facial injuries.
- Replace mouthguards regularly: They wear down over time or may not fit after dental changes.
- Practice safe play: Avoid chewing on hard objects, and encourage safe habits and sportsmanship.
According to the American Dental Association, athletes who do not wear a mouth guard are 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries in sports.
Call an Emergency Dentist
Whether you’ve had a recent injury, need treatment for a chipped or knocked-out tooth, or just started a new sport, our team is ready to help. We provide emergency dental care, and long-term support for all ages.
Visit any of our Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics locations to protect your smile and keep playing strong:
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878
📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
FAQs
What is the best mouthguard for sports?
A custom-fitted mouthguard made by your dentist offers the highest level of comfort and protection. It is molded to your teeth, making it easier to breathe, talk, and stay focused during the game.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?
Only if it’s a permanent tooth and you act quickly. Place it back in the socket or store it in milk and get to the dentist as soon as possible. The quicker you get to the dentist, the better chance you have of saving the tooth. Do not reinsert baby teeth.
Is a chipped tooth an emergency?
Small chips may not need immediate treatment, but deep cracks or exposed dentin can cause pain and lead to infection. Call your dentist to get it checked, this may prevent the need for root canal treatment.
What sports cause the most dental injuries?
Basketball, football, hockey, soccer, and skateboarding top the list. These contact sports are known for high rates of tooth injuries and crown fractures. Surprisingly, basketball causes more dental trauma than football because players often skip wearing mouthguards.
