How to Prevent Sports-Related Dental Injuries

Whether you’re hitting the field, the court, or the gym, protecting your smile probably isn’t the first thing on your mind. But sports-related dental injuries are more common than most people think—and they can be painful, expensive, and in some cases, permanent. The good news? Most of these injuries are completely preventable with the right precautions.

Here’s a breakdown of how you can protect your teeth while staying active.

Why Dental Injuries Happen in Sports

Contact sports like football, hockey, rugby, and boxing are the usual suspects, but even lower-contact activities like basketball, soccer, skateboarding, or mountain biking come with some dental risks. Accidental elbows, flying balls, unexpected falls—they all have the potential to chip, crack, or knock out a tooth. And let’s not forget about jaw injuries, which can be just as serious.

The MVP of Prevention: Mouthguards

If there’s one piece of equipment that can save your teeth, it’s a mouthguard. They might not be the most glamorous part of your gear, but they’re easily the most important when it comes to dental safety.

There are three main types:

• Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. They're inexpensive but tend to be bulky and not a perfect fit.

• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Made from thermoplastic, these are softened in hot water and molded to your teeth. They offer a better fit and are great for recreational athletes.

• Custom-Fit Mouthguards: These are made by your dentist based on a mold of your mouth. They’re the most comfortable and provide the best protection, especially for people in high-impact or competitive sports.

Helmet Up (and Other Gear Matters)

For sports like football, hockey, or lacrosse, helmets are a no-brainer. But make sure they’re properly fitted and in good condition. Some helmets even come with faceguards, which offer added protection for your mouth and jaw.

If your sport allows or recommends face shields, wear them. It’s a small extra step that can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding a broken tooth or cut lip.

Routine Dental Checkups Are Key

Preventing injuries isn’t just about what you do on game day—it also comes down to keeping your teeth in good shape year-round. Regular dental checkups help identify any weak spots, cracks, or signs of wear that could make a tooth more vulnerable to injury.

Plus, if you already wear braces or other dental appliances, your dentist can help you find the right protection to avoid damage to both your teeth and the appliance.

What to Do If You Do Get Hurt

Despite your best efforts, accidents still happen. If you suffer a dental injury during a game or practice:

• For a knocked-out tooth: Try to place it back in the socket, or store it in milk or saliva and get to a dentist ASAP. Timing matters—ideally within 30 minutes.

• For a chipped or cracked tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and see a dentist as soon as you can.

• For soft tissue injuries (like cut lips or gums): Clean the area gently and apply pressure to stop any bleeding. If it’s serious, seek medical care right away.

Final Thoughts

Staying active is one of the best things you can do for your health, but it’s worth taking a few extra steps to protect your teeth while you’re at it. A quality mouthguard, proper gear, and regular dental visits can go a long way in preventing injuries that could sideline your smile—and your game.

So next time you gear up, don’t forget your teeth. Your future self (and your dentist) will thank you.