From teaching discipline to providing physical activity, there are many benefits to playing sports. However, getting these benefits isn’t without risk, especially when it comes to dental safety. If you want to stay active and protect your smile, here are a few potentially dangerous sports that you shouldn’t play without wearing the proper protective gear.

5 Sports That Endanger Your Dental Health

1. Basketball

While basketball isn’t traditionally a contact sport, it’s quite dangerous for dental health. In fact, one study found that basketball had the highest number of dental injuries compared to other sports. This higher risk is due to accidental contact and the typical lack of protection that players have.

2. Football

With high-speed running and tackling, football involves a lot of activity that puts the head—and the mouth—in danger. Without proper protection, one accidental impact could puncture gum tissue or fracture teeth.

3. Baseball

Direct impact with a baseball is one common reason why people who play the sport end up with broken or knocked-out teeth. Falling—such as when running bases or sliding—can also lead to oral injuries.

4. Cycling

When done in a controlled setting—such as with a stationary bike—cycling doesn’t pose any immediate dental health risks. People who cycle in the streets or on trails, however, face a significant risk of tooth, jaw, and gum injuries. Typically, these incidents will occur when a cyclist has an accident that might be due to speeding or hitting an obstacle.

5. Hockey

Research suggests that crown fractures are among the most common dental injuries experienced by ice hockey players. This damage often occurs as a result of facial trauma through contact with the hockey stick or other players.

Providing dental care services in Oconto Falls, WI, for more than 15 years, Ronald R. Ristow, DDS, is qualified to address sports-related oral injuries. For example, he can fit you with custom mouthguards that help block your teeth from impact during activity. If an injury does happen, this practice offers restorative and cosmetic dentistry services to help repair your smile, including porcelain veneers and dental crowns. Visit this provider online to learn more about their services, or call (920) 846-3163 to schedule an appointment.