Athletes put their bodies on the line every time they step onto the field, court, or rinkand their teeth are no exception. Dental trauma is a common risk in contact and high-impact sports, making it essential for athletes, coaches, trainers, and parents to understand how to respond when an oral injury occurs. Implementing clear, rapid-response dental protocols can prevent long-term damage and keep athletes in the game with a healthy smile.
At McLevin Dental, we specialize in emergency dental care in Scarborough, serving athletes of all ages and levels. Whether its a knocked-out tooth during hockey or a chipped incisor in basketball, knowing what to do in those crucial first minutes is key.
Why Athletes Are at Higher Risk of Dental Trauma
Sports-related dental injuries are particularly prevalent in:
Hockey
Football
Rugby
Basketball
Martial arts and boxing
Skateboarding and cycling
Gymnastics and cheerleading
Common dental injuries in sports include:
Avulsed (knocked-out) teeth
Tooth fractures (chipped or broken teeth)
Displaced or loose teeth
Lip, cheek, or tongue lacerations
Jaw fractures and TMJ injuries
Mouthguards significantly reduce risk, but no protective gear can eliminate it entirely.
Step-by-Step Emergency Dental Protocol for Athletes
1. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)
This is the most time-sensitive dental emergency. If a permanent tooth is knocked out:
Locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown, never the root
Rinse it gently with clean water if dirtydo not scrub or use soap
If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the athlete bite gently on gauze or cloth
If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk, saline, or the athlete’s own saliva
Get to a dentist within 30 minutessuccess rates decline significantly after 60 minutes
Note: Do not reinsert baby teeth. They are not meant to be replaced.
2. Fractured or Chipped Tooth
Tooth fractures vary from superficial chips to deep cracks involving the pulp.
Rinse the athletes mouth with warm water
Collect and preserve any fragments in milk or saline
Apply a cold compress to the cheek to reduce swelling
Avoid exposing the tooth to heat or cold food/drinks
Seek immediate dental care to prevent infection or further damage
Prompt evaluation helps determine if bonding, a crown, or root canal treatment is necessary.
3. Loose or Dislodged Tooth (Luxation or Subluxation)
If a tooth is pushed inward, outward, or shifted from its normal position:
Do not attempt to realign the tooth without a professional
Apply cold compresses for swelling
Keep the athlete from chewing or putting pressure on the tooth
Visit a dentist immediatelysplinting or repositioning may be needed
Early intervention preserves the ligament attachment and tooth vitality.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries
Lacerations to the gums, lips, or cheeks are common in contact sports.
Rinse the mouth gently with water to remove debris
Apply pressure with sterile gauze to stop bleeding
Use a cold compress for swelling
If bleeding lasts more than 10 minutes or the wound is deep, seek emergency care
Stitches may be required depending on the severity and location of the cut.
5. Jaw or TMJ Injuries
A blow to the face or jaw can result in a fracture or dislocation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Do not allow the athlete to move their jaw if they report intense pain, swelling, or trouble opening/closing the mouth
Apply a cold pack to the side of the face
Transport to an emergency room or dental clinic equipped to manage jaw trauma
Advanced imaging may be necessary to assess bone and joint integrity.
On-Field Dental Emergency Kit Essentials
Athletic trainers and coaches should maintain a well-stocked dental emergency kit, which should include:
Sterile gloves
Gauze pads
Saline solution
A sealable container (for avulsed teeth)
Small bottle of milk or emergency tooth preservation product (like Save-A-Tooth)
Cold compress packs
Dental wax (to protect injured areas or braces)
Flashlight and mirror for oral inspection
Emergency contact info for local dental clinics
Every second countspreparedness makes a significant difference.
Mouthguards: First Line of Defense
Custom-fit sports mouthguards dramatically reduce the risk of dental trauma. Compared to store-bought boil and bite options, dentist-made mouthguards provide:
Superior protection
Better comfort and breathability
Long-term durability
Coverage tailored to the athletes unique bite and dental structure
At McLevin Dental, we recommend custom mouthguards for all contact sports participants, especially youth athletes still developing their dentition.
When to Visit the ER vs. Dentist
Some injuries require hospital care before dental intervention. Go to the emergency room if the athlete:
Has a suspected jaw fracture or facial bone injury
Experiences uncontrolled bleeding
Has lost consciousness or shows signs of concussion
Has difficulty breathing or speaking due to oral swelling
Once stabilized, follow up with a dental professional for ongoing treatment.
Recovery and Follow-Up
After initial emergency care, recovery involves monitoring for:
Root resorption or nerve damage
Tooth discoloration or infection
Gum recession or mobility
Healing of soft tissue or alignment of the bite
Regular dental checkups and possible endodontic care (root canals) may be necessary, depending on the trauma severity.
At McLevin Dental, we track recovery progress through digital X-rays, clinical assessments, and long-term monitoring for athletes post-injury.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies are an unfortunate reality of competitive and recreational sports. But with the right knowledge, tools, and dental partner, athletes can return to the game with full confidence. Quick thinking, field-side protocols, and prompt professional care can preserve teeth, protect oral function, and ensure a faster, smoother recovery.