Participating in sports is a great way to stay active and healthy, but it also comes with the risk of injuryespecially to the mouth and teeth. Dental injuries during sports are more common than many realize, and they often require immediate attention to prevent long-term damage. Whether youre an athlete, a coach, or a parent of a young player, understanding how to respond to dental emergencies from sports injuries can make all the difference.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we specialize in handling dental emergencies quickly and effectively. This blog will walk you through the common types of sports-related dental injuries, how to respond in the moment, and when to seek professional emergency dental care in Scarborough.
Common Types of Sports-Related Dental Injuries
Accidents on the field, court, or track can lead to several different types of dental trauma. The most common injuries include:
1. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
A tooth that has been completely dislodged from its socket is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. Timely action can often save the tooth.
2. Cracked or Broken Teeth
A blow to the face may cause a tooth to fracture, chip, or crack. These injuries vary in severity and can expose the tooths sensitive inner layers.
3. Tooth Displacement
Sometimes a tooth may not fall out but may shift in positionpushed in, out, or sideways. This type of dental trauma requires prompt stabilization.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries
Cuts to the lips, tongue, gums, or inner cheeks can bleed significantly and may need both dental and medical care.
5. Jaw Fractures and TMJ Injuries
A strong impact can also injure the jawbone or temporomandibular joint, causing pain and difficulty in movement.
What to Do Immediately After a Dental Injury
In any sports-related dental emergency, quick and appropriate action is crucial. Here are steps to take based on the type of injury:
If a Tooth Is Knocked Out:
Pick up the tooth by the crown (top), not the root
Gently rinse it with water if dirty, but do not scrub
If possible, place it back into the socket
If not, keep it in milk or the persons saliva to preserve it
Get to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving it
If a Tooth Is Broken or Cracked:
Rinse the mouth with warm water
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
Collect any tooth fragments if possible
Avoid chewing on that side of the mouth
Seek emergency dental care promptly
If Theres Heavy Bleeding or Swelling:
Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze
Use a cold compress on the outside of the face
Head to a dental office or emergency room if bleeding doesnt stop
For Jaw or Facial Pain After Impact:
Immobilize the jaw if possible
Apply ice to reduce swelling
Visit a dentist or emergency room immediately to check for fractures
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Not all sports injuries look severe at first, but internal damage can occur even without visible trauma. You should seek immediate dental care if:
A tooth is loose, chipped, or knocked out
Theres uncontrolled bleeding in the mouth
Pain persists after the initial injury
The bite feels off or misaligned
The jaw feels stiff, locked, or painful when opening
At McLevin Dental Clinic, our emergency dental services are designed to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions. We handle everything from simple tooth repairs to complex trauma cases.
How Dentists Treat Sports Dental Injuries
After examining the extent of the injury, your dentist may recommend treatments such as:
Reimplantation and Splinting: For knocked-out teeth that can be saved
Dental Bonding or Fillings: To repair minor chips and fractures
Crowns or Veneers: For major structural damage
Root Canal Therapy: If the pulp is exposed or infected
Oral Surgery or Referral: For severe jaw injuries or impacted teeth
Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible and restore full function and aesthetics.
Preventing Sports Dental Injuries
Prevention is always better than cure. If you or your child play contact or high-risk sports, the following steps can dramatically reduce the chances of dental injury:
Wear a Custom-Fit Mouthguard: Unlike store-bought guards, custom ones offer better protection and comfort
Use a Helmet or Face Shield: Particularly in hockey, baseball, football, and similar sports
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Your dentist can detect early signs of enamel wear or instability
Follow Safety Rules and Training Guidelines: Proper technique reduces injury risk
McLevin Dental offers high-quality custom sports mouthguards designed for maximum protection during athletic performance.
Count on McLevin Dental Clinic for Emergency Sports Injury Care
Dental injuries during sports can be frightening, but with quick action and expert care, full recovery is possible. McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough provides reliable, compassionate emergency dental services to athletes of all ages.
Whether its a broken tooth, a knocked-out incisor, or soft tissue trauma, were here to help restore your oral health swiftly and professionally. Dont wait for the pain to worsencontact us immediately for emergency care.