Sports Injuries and Dental Emergencies in Calgary: What Athletes Need to Know

Introduction

Whether it’s hockey, football, soccer, or martial arts, sports are a huge part of life in Calgary. But with all that action comes the risk of injury — and some of the most common injuries we see at Inglewood Family Dental Emergency in Calgary are dental-related.

From knocked-out teeth to broken braces, sports injuries can happen suddenly and painfully. Knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference in saving a tooth and preventing long-term complications.

Common Sports-Related Dental Injuries

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

One of the most urgent dental emergencies. If handled correctly, the tooth can sometimes be saved.

2. Fractured or Chipped Tooth

A blow to the mouth can cause cracks or chips, sometimes exposing sensitive inner layers.

3. Soft Tissue Injuries

Cuts to lips, cheeks, or gums are common after collisions or falls.

4. Broken Braces or Orthodontic Appliances

Brackets or wires can bend or break, causing discomfort or injury to the mouth.

5. Jaw Injuries

While less common, trauma can lead to dislocated or fractured jaws, requiring urgent medical and dental care.

Immediate First Aid Steps

Knocked-Out Tooth

• Pick it up by the crown (not the root).

• Rinse gently and reinsert if possible.

• If not, store in milk or saliva and call your dentist immediately.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

• Rinse with warm water.

• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

• Save any broken fragments.

Soft Tissue Injuries

• Rinse with clean water.

• Apply pressure with gauze to stop bleeding.

• Use a cold compress to control swelling.

Broken Braces

• Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax.

• Avoid pulling on wires.

• Call your dentist or orthodontist for urgent care.

When to See an Emergency Dentist

Seek care right away if you experience:

• Severe pain or sensitivity.

• Bleeding that won’t stop after 10 minutes.

• Knocked-out or loose teeth.

• A cracked tooth with visible nerve exposure.

• Swelling in the gums, cheek, or jaw.

How Dentists Treat Sports Dental Injuries

• Reimplantation and Splinting: For knocked-out teeth placed back into the socket.

• Bonding, Veneers, or Crowns: To repair chipped or cracked teeth.

• Root Canal Therapy: If the pulp is damaged or infected.

• Stitches: For deep cuts inside the mouth.

• Orthodontic Repair: For broken wires or brackets.

FAQs About Sports Dental Emergencies

1. Can a knocked-out tooth always be saved?

Not always. Success depends on how quickly you act and how the tooth is stored. The first hour is critical.

2. Should I go to the ER instead of a dentist?

For jaw fractures or uncontrolled bleeding, go to the ER. For tooth and mouth injuries, an emergency dentist is your best option.

3. How common are dental sports injuries?

According to dental associations, up to 39% of dental injuries are sports-related — especially in contact sports like hockey and football.

Prevention Tips for Athletes

• Wear a Mouthguard: Custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best protection.

• Helmet with Face Guard: Essential for high-contact sports.

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Ensure teeth and restorations are strong before playing.

• Replace Worn Mouthguards: They lose effectiveness over time.

Why Choose Inglewood Family Dental Emergency in Calgary

We’ve treated athletes of all ages, from kids playing soccer to adults in competitive leagues. Our clinic offers:

• Same-day emergency appointments for sports injuries.

• Extended hours evenings and weekends.

• Comprehensive treatments, from saving knocked-out teeth to repairing fractures.

• Friendly, compassionate care to get you back in the game quickly.

Conclusion

Sports are fun, but dental injuries are serious. With fast action and expert care, most injuries can be treated successfully — and many can be prevented with the right gear.

➡️ Call Inglewood Family Dental Emergency in Calgary immediately if you or your child suffers a sports-related dental injury. We’ll restore your smile and your confidence.

👨‍⚕️ About the Author
Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh is a general dentist in Calgary and the owner of Inglewood Family Dental Emergency. With over 10 years of private practice experience and a teaching role at the University of Alberta School of Dentistry, he brings both clinical expertise and academic knowledge to every patient interaction.