In the fast-paced, high-impact world of sports, dental injuries can happen in an instant. A sudden fall, an elbow to the mouth, or an impact from a ball or puck can lead to chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth. When these emergencies occur, knowing how to respond can make all the difference between saving or losing a tooth.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we help athletes prevent oral traumaand guide them on how to act quickly and correctly when accidents happen. This blog covers everything you need to know about managing tooth injuries during sports.
Common Tooth Injuries in Sports
Sports-related dental injuries are more common than many realize. Here are the most frequent types athletes experience:
1. Chipped or Fractured Tooth
Often caused by contact with a hard surface or object, chipped teeth can range from minor cracks to large fractures that expose the inner tooth.
2. Dislodged or Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
One of the most serious dental emergencies, a tooth knocked completely out of the socket requires immediate attention.
3. Loose or Displaced Tooth
An impact may loosen a tooth or push it out of position, making it painful to bite or chew.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries
Lips, cheeks, gums, and tongue can be cut or bruised during sports, especially if the athlete isnt wearing a mouthguard.
5. Jaw Injuries
A strong blow to the face may result in a fractured or dislocated jaw, which often occurs alongside tooth damage.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Sports-Related Dental Injury
For a Chipped or Broken Tooth:
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to remove debris.
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling.
Save any broken pieces, place them in a clean container, and bring them to your dental appointment.
Avoid chewing on the injured side.
Contact McLevin Dental Clinic immediately for emergency treatment.
For a Knocked-Out Tooth (Adult Tooth Only):
Find the tooth and hold it by the crown (top), not the root.
Rinse it gently with clean waterdo not scrub or use soap.
Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible and bite down gently on gauze to hold it in place.
If reinsertion isnt possible, store the tooth in milk, saline, or the person’s saliva.
Seek emergency dental care within 3060 minutes. Acting fast improves the chances of saving the tooth.
For a Loose or Misaligned Tooth:
Gently reposition the tooth if its out of place, but do not force it.
Bite down on gauze or a clean cloth to keep it stable.
See a dentist immediately to assess the damage and stabilize the tooth.
For Cuts or Bleeding in the Mouth:
Apply pressure with gauze or a clean cloth to stop the bleeding.
Rinse with cold water to clean the wound.
Use a cold compress on the face to reduce swelling.
If bleeding doesnt stop after 1015 minutes, seek medical attention.
For Suspected Jaw Injury:
Avoid moving the jaw.
Apply a cold compress for swelling.
Seek emergency dental or medical treatment immediately.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
You should seek immediate dental care after a sports-related injury if:
A tooth is knocked out, loose, or broken
Bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes
You experience jaw pain or difficulty opening your mouth
Theres visible swelling or bruising
You have severe pain or sensitivity
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we offer same-day emergency appointments to help athletes recover from dental trauma as quickly and safely as possible.
Long-Term Care After a Dental Injury
After initial treatment, your dentist may recommend:
Dental X-rays to check for hidden damage
Follow-up visits to monitor healing
Restorative procedures like bonding, crowns, or root canal therapy
Mouthguard fabrication to prevent future injuries
Its important to follow all post-care instructions, maintain excellent oral hygiene, and avoid chewing on the injured side until healing is complete.
How to Prevent Future Tooth Injuries
Preventive care is the best defense against oral trauma. Heres how athletes can stay protected:
Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during all practices and games
Use helmets and face shields as recommended for your sport
Stay hydrated to support gum and oral tissue health
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams
Educate young athletes on the importance of dental safety
Final Thoughts
Sports injuries can happen in a split secondbut with the right knowledge and quick response, athletes can minimize damage and recover faster. Knowing what to do in a dental emergency can be the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we specialize in both preventive and emergency sports dentistry. Whether you need a custom mouthguard, urgent care for a broken tooth, or long-term dental rehabilitation, our team is here to support your health and performance.
Call us today to schedule a consultation or get immediate help after a dental injury. Your safetyand your smileare always our top priorities.