According to the German Society for Sports Medicine (DGSP), up to 40% of all facial injuries in sport affect the teeth. The risk is especially high in contact sports: boxing, ice hockey, basketball, martial arts, rugby. But injuries also occur in football, mountain biking, and skateboarding.

The most common injury is a crown fracture. Second is tooth luxation, where the tooth shifts but remains in the socket. Third is complete tooth loss (avulsion).

Sports mouthguards: types and differences

Shop-bought mouthguard (Boil-and-Bite): available in sports shops, softened in hot water and moulded with the teeth. Minimal protection: the guard does not fit snugly and hinders breathing and speech.

Custom mouthguard from a dentist: made in a dental laboratory from a precise jaw impression. Material thickness is tailored to the sport. A precise fit provides maximum protection with comfortable wear.

What to do if a tooth is injured

Tooth completely knocked out: hold it by the crown (never the root!), place it in milk or a tooth rescue box (Zahnrettungsbox), and see a dentist immediately. Within 30-60 minutes the tooth can be replanted.

Tooth broken: save the fragment, apply cold to the lip, and visit a dentist the same day.

Tooth displaced: do not try to push it back yourself. Go to a dentist or an emergency dental clinic.

Sports drinks and acid erosion

Besides injuries, there is another risk factor for athletes: acid erosion of enamel. Isotonic drinks, energy drinks, and even lemon water have a pH of 2.5-4.0, well below the enamel demineralisation threshold (pH 5.5).

With frequent consumption, the enamel gradually thins. Teeth become sensitive, turn yellow, and lose strength. The recommendation is simple: after acidic drinks, rinse your mouth with water and wait 30 minutes before brushing.

Insurance coverage

A custom sports mouthguard is a Privatleistung (private service). The GKV does not cover the fabrication of sports mouthguards. However, some Zahnzusatzversicherung plans include preventive devices. Check with your insurer.

Treatment of sports injury consequences (fillings, crowns, implants) is covered by the GKV under standard rules. For complex restorations, a Heil- und Kostenplan is prepared.