How to Handle a Cracked Tooth During Sports

Youth sports are a great way for kids to stay active, build confidence, and learn teamwork - but accidents can happen. One of the most common dental injuries during sports is a cracked tooth. Knowing how to respond quickly and correctly can make a major difference in saving your child’s tooth and preventing further complications.

Signs Your Child May Have a Cracked Tooth

Not all cracks are immediately obvious. Some symptoms may appear hours or even days later. Watch for:

• Tooth pain when biting or chewing

• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods

• Swelling around the tooth or gums

• A visible crack or chipped area

• Complaints of discomfort that come and go

If your child reports tooth pain after a sports injury, it’s important to have their teeth evaluated - even if the damage looks minor.

What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Is Cracked

Quick action can help reduce pain and protect the tooth until your child can see a dentist.

• Remove your child from play: Continuing activity could worsen the injury.

• Rinse the mouth gently: Use water to clean the area and remove debris.

• Apply a cold compress: This helps control swelling and discomfort.

• Call a pediatric dentist right away: Cracked teeth should be treated as a dental emergency, especially for children.

Why Pediatric Emergency Dental Care Matters

Children’s teeth require specialized care. Prompt pediatric emergency dental treatment can:

• Prevent cracks from spreading

• Reduce the risk of infection

• Protect the developing adult tooth underneath

• Relieve pain quickly and safely

Treatment options may range from smoothing minor cracks to dental bonding, crowns, or other restorative solutions, depending on the severity of the injury.

Preventing Sports-Related Dental Injuries

While accidents can’t always be avoided, prevention goes a long way:

• Wear a custom mouthguard for all sports, not just contact sports

• Ensure helmets and protective gear fit properly

• Replace worn or damaged mouthguards regularly

• Encourage safe play and proper techniques

A properly fitted mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to protect your child’s smile during sports.

Protect Your Child’s Smile

A cracked tooth during sports can be stressful, but knowing how to respond quickly helps protect your child’s oral health. Early evaluation and pediatric emergency dental care are key to minimizing damage and keeping your child comfortable.

If your child experiences a cracked tooth or dental injury during sports, don’t wait. Contact Beam Pediatric Dentistry right away for prompt, compassionate pediatric emergency dental care. Visit our office in Dumfries, Virginia, or call (571) 520-2500 to book an appointment today.