Sports That Cause the Most Dental Injuries: Protect Your Smile on the Field
Playing sports is an excellent way to stay active and healthy, but it also carries certain risks—especially when it comes to dental injuries. Whether you’re a weekend player or a competitive athlete, knowing which sports are most likely to cause dental trauma can help you take the right precautions. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), sports-related dental injuries make up nearly 39% of all dental injuries in children and teens.
In this article, we explore the five sports that cause the most dental injuries, supported by research and guidance from leading health and sports organizations, along with practical tips to protect your smile.
1. Basketball
Basketball is a surprising leader in sports-related dental injuries. Although often viewed as a non-contact sport, the fast pace and frequent player interactions lead to many accidental collisions, elbows, and falls that injure teeth. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that basketball accounts for a large number of dental trauma injuries treated in emergency rooms across the U.S. (CDC).
The British Journal of Sports Medicine also highlights that basketball players experience a higher incidence of orofacial injuries compared to many other sports, partly because many players skip wearing mouthguards.
2. Hockey
Ice hockey and field hockey are notorious for dental injuries due to high-speed puck impacts, sticks, and aggressive physical contact. The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) recommends strict use of mouthguards and face protection to reduce the risk of broken or lost teeth.
Even with helmets and cages, hockey players often suffer dental trauma, highlighting the importance of properly fitted mouthguards to absorb impacts (ADA).
3. Football
Football involves intense physical contact that can lead to tooth fractures and jaw injuries despite the use of helmets and mouthguards. The NFL Players Association stresses the importance of wearing well-fitted mouthguards to minimize dental trauma during tackles and collisions (NFLPA).
The American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends mouthguards for football players, noting that proper use significantly reduces the risk of dental injuries (AAP).
4. Martial Arts and Boxing
Combat sports such as boxing, MMA, and various martial arts expose athletes to frequent direct hits to the face, making dental injuries common. The American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes the high injury risk in these sports and advocates the use of mouthguards and helmets for protection (AAP).
Wearing properly fitted mouthguards can absorb and distribute the force of blows, preventing broken or knocked-out teeth.
5. Skateboarding and BMX
Skateboarding and BMX biking are extreme sports with a high risk of falls and collisions with hard surfaces. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of emergency room visits are related to skateboarding injuries every year, many involving dental trauma due to the lack of mouthguard use.
Protective gear, including helmets and mouthguards, is strongly recommended to prevent severe injuries in these high-risk activities.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Mouthguards are a simple yet highly effective tool to prevent dental injuries in sports. The American Dental Association reports that wearing a properly fitted mouthguard reduces the risk of orofacial injuries by cushioning blows and preventing tooth fractures or avulsions (ADA).
Despite their proven benefits, research from Safe Kids Worldwide shows that only about 25% of children who play sports regularly wear mouthguards — an important area for improvement.
Tips to Prevent Dental Injuries
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Always wear a custom-fit mouthguard: This provides the best comfort and protection compared to generic types.
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Use helmets and face shields: Especially critical in hockey, football, and extreme sports.
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Maintain regular dental checkups: Healthy teeth are more resilient to injury.
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Promote education and awareness: Coaches, parents, and athletes should understand the importance of dental protection.
Conclusion
Dental injuries caused by sports can be painful and costly but are mostly preventable. Most sports carry the highest risk of dental trauma, but using proper protective gear like mouthguards dramatically reduces the danger. By understanding these risks and taking preventive steps, athletes can protect their smiles and enjoy their favorite activities safely.
But, if you have concerns about your wisdom teeth, schedule a visit with us at Emergency Dental of Cincinnati. Our team is here to help, providing you with the care and guidance you need to make the best decision for your oral health.
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