Sports are a great way to stay active and healthy, but athletes often face a higher risk of dental injuries. Whether from contact sports like football and hockey or even non-contact activities like gymnastics or cycling, dental emergencies can happen suddenly and require immediate attention. Knowing what to look out for can help athletes act quickly and prevent long-term damage. Here are 5 of the most common dental emergencies among athletes.
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
One of the most alarming dental injuries is a knocked-out tooth. This often occurs from direct impact, such as a collision, fall, or blow from sports equipment. Time is critical in this situation—if the tooth is preserved properly and re-implanted within an hour, there’s a good chance it can be saved. Athletes should handle the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it if dirty, and keep it moist in milk, saline solution, or saliva until they reach a dentist.
2. Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth is another common sports injury. While small cracks may not seem serious, they can expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to infection. Severe fractures may cause intense pain and sensitivity, especially when biting or chewing. Dental treatment may involve bonding, a crown, or in some cases, root canal therapy to restore strength and function.
3. Soft Tissue Injuries
Cuts or lacerations to the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums are frequent in athletes, particularly in contact sports without adequate mouth protection. These injuries can cause heavy bleeding and discomfort. While many soft tissue injuries heal on their own, deeper wounds may require stitches. Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater and applying pressure to control bleeding can help until professional care is available.
4. Dislodged or Loose Tooth
Sometimes, instead of being completely knocked out, a tooth becomes partially dislodged or loose from trauma. This can cause significant pain and interfere with chewing. If this happens, it’s important to avoid wiggling or forcing the tooth back into place. Athletes should see a dentist right away, as early treatment can often save the tooth and stabilize it before further damage occurs.
5. Broken Dental Restorations
Many athletes already have dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, or braces. Unfortunately, these can break or become damaged during sports activities. A broken crown or filling can expose sensitive teeth, while damaged braces can injure the lips or cheeks. Emergency dental care is necessary to repair the restoration and prevent complications.
Prevention is Key
While dental emergencies are sometimes unavoidable, athletes can greatly reduce their risk by wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard, using helmets with face shields in contact sports, and attending regular dental checkups. Quick action and professional treatment after an injury can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
Athletes put their bodies on the line for the love of the game, but protecting your smile is just as important as protecting your muscles and bones. Being aware of these common dental emergencies and how to handle them can help you stay in the game with confidence.
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Goldberg earned his DDS degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry before completing a one-year general practice residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, during which he gained extensive experience in oral surgery and emergency care, as well as treating medically compromised patients. He has taken numerous continuing education courses, covering topics such as sedation, endodontics, digital dentistry, and dental implant dentistry. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, trust Dr. Goldberg and our talented team to take great care of you. Schedule an appointment online or call (289) 366-3024.