Look out! A parent’s guide to sports-related dental injuries

It’s game day. The kids are running onto the field, parents are cheering, and everyone’s excited - until that one moment no parent wants to see: a collision, a fall, or an elbow to the face that ends with a dental injury.

Sports are an incredible way for kids to build confidence, teamwork, and healthy habits. But with all that fun comes some risk. According to the American Dental Association, 10-20% of all sports injuries are dental injuries, and more than 5 million teeth are knocked out in the U.S. each year, many during sports.

The good news? With the right prevention and a quick response, you can protect your child’s smile. Here’s what every parent needs to know.

Common sports-related dental injuries in kids

Kids’ teeth and jaws are still developing, which makes them more vulnerable during high-energy activities. The most common injuries include:

• Chipped or broken teeth: Even a small chip can cause sensitivity or increase cavity or an infection risk if left untreated.
• Knocked-out teeth (avulsion): Quick action is key here. Saving a tooth is more likely if treated within the hour.
• Loosened or displaced teeth: A hard hit can push a tooth out of alignment.
• Soft tissue injuries: Busted lips, bitten tongues, and gum injuries are common with impact.

And if your child has braces, injuries can look a little different. The brackets and wires can cut lips or cheeks during impact. While braces themselves provide some level of protection for teeth, they can also cause extra discomfort in a collision. That’s why orthodontic mouthguards are so important for kids in braces.

Sports with the highest risk

It’s no surprise that contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, and wrestling carry higher risks. But parents are often surprised to learn how common dental injuries are in “non-contact” or “limited contact” sports, too. Baseball, softball, gymnastics, skateboarding, and biking all send kids to the dentist every season.

If your child plays a sport where balls, sticks, or frequent falls are involved, their teeth are at risk.

Prevention is key

A custom-fitted mouthguard is your child’s best defense. In fact, research shows that athletes who wear a mouthguard are substantially less likely to suffer a dental injury.

For kids without braces, a standard custom-fitted mouthguard provides cushioning against impact and protects the teeth, lips, and jaw.

For kids with braces, a special orthodontic mouthguard is essential. It fits comfortably over brackets and wires, prevents painful cuts inside the mouth, and helps minimize damage if a hit occurs. Standard mouthguards can sometimes work in a pinch, but they don’t always fit well over orthodontic appliances and a poor fit means less protection.

What to do if a dental injury happens

If the unexpected does occur, knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make all the difference:

Knocked-out permanent (adult) tooth

Keep it moist (in milk, saline, or your child’s saliva) and get to a pediatric dentist immediately. Time is critical.

Chipped or broken tooth

Save the piece if you can and call your dentist right away.

Braces-related injury

Apply orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges and contact your orthodontist or pediatric dentist.

Soft tissue injury

Apply gentle pressure with gauze to control bleeding.

No matter the injury, call your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. They can guide you over the phone and arrange an emergency visit.

How pediatric dentists support active kids

At First Impressions Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we know active kids come with active risks, and we’re here to keep smiles safe. Our team provides:

• Custom mouthguard fittings (for kids with and without braces)
• Emergency care for dental injuries
• Repair and replacement for braces
• Kid-friendly comfort to ease the stress of dental emergencies

We’re your partner in keeping your child’s smile strong through every season of life (and every season of sports).

Keep your child’s smile in the game

Sports build memories, friendships, and lifelong skills. Don’t let a dental injury sideline your child’s smile. With preventive care and quick action, you can protect their teeth and give them the confidence to play their best.

Whether your child has braces, just lost their first tooth, or is gearing up for their big season, we’ll help keep their smile safe on and off the field.

Time for a dental visit?