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Sports are a big part of childhood — from soccer and basketball to football and gymnastics, kids stay active, build teamwork skills, and have fun. But with all the benefits of sports also comes the risk of dental injuries. Chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth are more common than many parents realize, especially during contact or high-energy activities.
The good news is that most sports-related dental injuries are preventable. With the right protection, children can stay safe on the field, court, or track while keeping their smiles healthy.
Why Sports Safety Includes Oral Health
When parents think about sports safety, helmets, pads, and supportive shoes usually come to mind first. But teeth and jaws are just as vulnerable as knees and elbows. A single collision or fall can lead to painful injuries and long-term dental problems if precautions aren’t taken.
Protecting the mouth isn’t only about avoiding emergencies. Preventive steps also protect developing teeth, gums, and jaw growth — setting kids up for healthier smiles as they grow.
Common Sports-Related Dental Injuries
Knowing the types of injuries kids may face helps parents understand why prevention is so important. Some of the most common include:
- Chipped or broken teeth — Often caused by a fall or direct impact.
- Knocked-out teeth — Especially common in contact sports without mouth protection.
- Lip and cheek injuries — Teeth can cut soft tissues during impact.
- Jaw fractures — Strong collisions can affect the jawbone.
- Braces-related injuries — Kids with braces are at higher risk for cuts inside the mouth.
These injuries can be painful, costly, and sometimes affect long-term oral health — but most can be avoided with simple preventive tools.
The Importance of Mouthguards
Mouthguards are the number one tool for protecting kids’ smiles during sports. They cushion the teeth and jaw, reducing the risk of injuries by absorbing and redistributing the force of impact.
There are different types of mouthguards:
- Stock mouthguards — Pre-formed and ready to wear, but often bulky and less effective.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards — Molded at home for a better fit, commonly found in sporting goods stores.
- Custom mouthguards — Made by a dentist for the best comfort and protection, especially recommended for kids in high-contact sports or with braces.
A properly fitted mouthguard not only protects teeth but also makes it easier for kids to breathe and communicate during games.
Helmets and Face Protection
For sports like football, hockey, or baseball, helmets with face protection provide another essential layer of safety. Helmets reduce the risk of concussions and head injuries, while face guards shield teeth, lips, and jaws from fast-moving balls or direct hits.
Parents should ensure helmets fit correctly and are in good condition. A poorly fitting helmet can be almost as risky as no helmet at all.
Supporting Kids With Braces
Children who wear braces need extra attention when it comes to sports safety. Brackets and wires can cause painful cuts inside the mouth if they are struck during play. A custom-fitted mouthguard designed for braces is the best option for keeping orthodontic appliances — and smiles — safe.
These specialized guards are made to adapt as teeth move, offering consistent protection throughout orthodontic treatment.
Building Good Habits Around Sports Safety
Protective gear only works if kids actually use it consistently. Parents can encourage good habits by:
- Reminding kids to wear their mouthguard and helmet every practice and game
- Checking equipment regularly for wear and tear
- Modeling good habits by wearing protective gear themselves during activities
- Talking about why protection matters — prevention is easier than emergency treatment
When safety becomes a natural part of the sports routine, children are more likely to stick with it.
What to Do if a Dental Injury Happens
Even with the best protection, accidents can happen. Parents should know the basics of handling dental emergencies:
- Chipped or broken tooth — Rinse the mouth with warm water and save any pieces.
- 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 not possible, keep it in milk or saliva and seek dental care immediately.
- Soft tissue injury — Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding and seek professional help if needed.
Quick action can make a huge difference in saving a child’s tooth and minimizing long-term damage.
Time to Take the Next Step
Sports help kids grow stronger, healthier, and more confident — but protecting their smiles is just as important as scoring points on the field. Mouthguards, helmets, and consistent safety habits go a long way in preventing injuries and keeping kids focused on the game, not dental pain.
At Busciglio Smiles, we provide guidance on the best mouthguards for kids, including options for children with braces. Our team is here to help families protect their smiles while encouraging kids to stay active and enjoy the sports they love.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about custom sports mouthguards and keep your child’s smile safe all season long.