Preventing Dental Injuries
Most dental injuries happen suddenly — during sport, play, or falls.
While not all trauma can be avoided, there are well-established ways to reduce risk, supported by dental and orthodontic research.
Everyday Prevention
Simple habits can lower the risk of accidental impact to the teeth:
Avoid using teeth to open objects
Take care on wet or slippery surfaces
Supervise young children during energetic play
Orthodontic Considerations
Research consistently shows that children and adults with increased overjet (protruding upper front teeth) have a significantly higher risk of dental trauma.
Protruding upper front teeth are more exposed to impact
Early orthodontic assessment can reduce long-term trauma risk
Treatment that reduces overjet can significantly lower the chance of future injury
Sports Safety
Sports are one of the leading causes of dental trauma.
Wear a mouthguard for all contact and high-risk sports
Custom-made mouthguards offer the best fit and protection
Replace mouthguards if worn, cracked, or damaged by chewing
Helmets should fit properly for cycling, scooters, and skating
School & Playground Safety
Children are more prone to falls and collisions.
Avoid overcrowding on climbing equipment
Use soft flooring where possible
Encourage safe play and spacing during running games
Schools should have an emergency dental plan
Mouthguard Advice
Mouthguards are one of the most reliable, clinically proven ways to reduce dental trauma.
Custom-made mouthguards provide the highest level of protection
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are acceptable but offer a less accurate fit
Special orthodontic mouthguards exist for patients with braces
Essential for contact sports and strongly recommended for high-speed activities
If an Injury Happens
Even with good prevention, accidents can still happen.
Knocked-out tooth –
With Kit
Knocked-out tooth –
Without Kit
Other Dental Trauma
Find a Dentist
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common cause of dental injuries?
Falls, play and sport are common causes of dental injuries, particularly in children and teenagers.
Do mouthguards actually prevent dental injuries?
Yes – a well-fitting mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk and severity of dental and other orofacial injuries during at-risk sports.
Are custom-fitted mouthguards better than off-the-shelf ones?
Generally yes. Custom mouthguards, fitted by a dentist, offer better protection and comfort than boil-and-bite or stock versions, though any properly worn mouthguard is better than none.
How can schools and sports clubs reduce the risk of dental injuries?
Having a clear response plan, trained staff, appropriate dental-trauma supplies and mouthguard policies for at-risk sports can improve preparedness and help staff respond appropriately when an injury occurs.