The crisp air, the sound of cleats on grass, and the cheering from sidelines: fall sports season is here. From football and soccer to field hockey and cheer, kids across our community are staying active and having fun. But did you know that dental injuries are among the most common sports-related injuries in children? The good news? Most are completely preventable.
The Fall Sports Dental Injury Landscape
Certain fall sports come with higher risk: football, soccer, field hockey, and basketball top the list. Injuries can range from chipped or cracked teeth to knocked-out teeth and soft tissue trauma. Because many kids play multiple sports this time of year, the risk of injury increases. And the impact of a childhood dental injury can extend into adulthood, affecting developing teeth and long-term oral health.
Mouthguards 101: What Every Parent Should Know
- Types: Store-bought mouthguards are accessible, but custom-fitted ones from your dentist offer superior comfort and protection.
- When they’re essential: Football, field hockey, and similar contact sports require them.
- When they’re smart: Even non-contact sports like soccer and basketball benefit from protection.
- Fit matters: A loose or bulky mouthguard won’t protect properly.
- Care: Rinse after each use and replace if worn out or chewed.
- Comfort tips: Let kids help choose the color or case to increase usage.
Emergency Action Plan: What To Do If a Dental Injury Happens
- Knocked-out permanent tooth: Handle by the crown (not the root), store in milk or saliva, and see a dentist within 30-60 minutes.
- Knocked-out baby tooth: Do not try to reinsert. Call your pediatric dentist for next steps.
- Chipped tooth: Save any pieces if possible, rinse the mouth with warm water, and call your dentist.
- Soft tissue injury: Apply pressure to stop bleeding. Seek care if the cut is large or won’t stop bleeding.
Prevention Beyond the Mouthguard
- Schedule a pre-season dental checkup
- Make sure your child’s helmet fits properly
- Address any existing dental issues before sports begin
- Encourage water breaks and proper hydration
- Teach safe play and awareness
Confident Play, Protected Smiles
Youth sports are a joy—and protecting your child’s smile makes them even better. Mouthguards should be as routine as helmets. At Huntington Smiles, we’re happy to provide custom fittings and answer any questions. Here’s to a fun, injury-free season!
