Playing sports is a fantastic way to stay fit, build teamwork skills, and have fun. But if you participate in contact sportslike hockey, football, soccer, rugby, basketball, or martial artsyour teeth face a real risk of injury. At McLevin Dental, weve seen firsthand how quickly a chipped or knocked-out tooth can turn a game day into a dental emergency. The good news? Most sports-related dental injuries are preventable with the right protection and a little know-how. Heres everything athletes and parents need to know about keeping those winning smiles safe on the field, court, or rink.
The Most Common Dental Injuries in Contact Sports
You might be surprised to learn how common dental injuries are among athletes. Some of the most frequent include:
Chipped or fractured teeth: A blow to the face can easily crack or break a tooth.
Knocked-out teeth: Sudden impact can completely dislodge a tooth, especially in sports with lots of physical contact.
Cut lips, cheeks, or tongue: Your teeth can slice soft tissues during a collision or fall.
Jaw injuries: Serious hits may result in jaw fractures or dislocation.
Tooth intrusion: Sometimes, a tooth is pushed deeper into the jawbonea painful injury that needs immediate dental attention.
The Importance of Mouthguards
Hands down, the best way to protect your teeth in contact sports is by wearing a mouthguard. At McLevin Dental, we always recommend custom mouthguards for athletes of all ages. Unlike store-bought versions, custom mouthguards are made to fit your mouth perfectly, providing maximum comfort and superior protection.
A properly fitted mouthguard cushions your teeth, gums, and jaw against impact, helping to prevent or reduce the severity of injuries. It can even help lower the risk of concussions by absorbing shock from blows to the jaw.
Types of Mouthguards: Which Is Best?
There are three main types of mouthguards:
Stock mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. Theyre affordable but often bulky and dont fit very well, making it harder to talk and breathe.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Available at most sporting goods stores, these are softened in hot water and then shaped around your teeth. They offer a better fit than stock guards but can still be uncomfortable and less protective.
Custom mouthguards: Made by your dentist from an impression of your teeth, these offer the best fit, comfort, and protection. Custom mouthguards are especially important if you wear braces or have dental appliances.
Additional Tips for Protecting Your Smile
While a mouthguard is your first line of defense, here are a few more ways to keep your teeth safe during sports:
Wear a helmet: In sports like hockey, football, and lacrosse, helmets add another layer of protection for your head and mouth.
Keep up with oral hygiene: Healthy teeth and gums are more resilient. Brush and floss daily, and dont skip your regular dental check-ups.
Replace damaged equipment: A mouthguard thats cracked, torn, or doesnt fit snugly isnt doing its job. Replace your mouthguard as soon as you notice wear or damage.
Store your mouthguard properly: After each game or practice, rinse your mouthguard with cool water and store it in a ventilated case. Keep it out of hot cars, which can warp the material.
Never use your teeth as tools: It can be tempting to use your teeth to open bottles, tear tape, or hold gear, but this puts you at risk for chips and fractures.
What to Do If a Dental Injury Happens
Sometimes, even with the best precautions, accidents happen. If you or your child suffers a dental injury during sports:
Chipped or broken tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and try to save any pieces. See your dentist as soon as possible.
Knocked-out tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it, and try to place it back in the socket. If thats not possible, keep it moist in milk or saliva and get to the dentist right away. Time is criticalacting within 30 minutes gives the best chance of saving the tooth.
Cuts or jaw injuries: Apply gentle pressure to stop bleeding, use a cold compress for swelling, and seek immediate dental or medical care.
Dont Let a Dental Injury Sideline You
Athletes put in hours of hard work to excel in their sportdont let a dental injury slow you down. Protecting your teeth is as important as protecting your head, knees, or ankles. With the right gear and habits, you can focus on giving your best performance, knowing your smile is in safe hands.
At McLevin Dental, were passionate about helping athletes stay safe and confident, both on and off the field. If youre ready to get fitted for a custom mouthguard or want advice on the best ways to protect your teeth, book an appointment with our team today. Lets keep your smile strong, no matter where your sports journey takes you!