Call us today!: 830-625-1515

3 Most Common Dental Emergencies for Athletes

 Football player wearing red uniformSports are a great way to stay fit and active, especially if you aren’t a fan of going to the gym. Unfortunately, you may be placing your smile at risk of serious damage if you aren’t wearing an athletic mouthguard. 1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency annually. Although it can happen to anyone, athletes have a higher risk. Whether riding a bike or playing football, here are the top 3 dental emergencies for athletes and what you can do to safeguard your smile. 

1. Fractured Teeth

A blow to the face can easily fracture a tooth; however, the severity of the damage may not always be visible to an untrained eye. Besides large cracks, craze lines can also occur. They are superficial and don’t pose an immediate threat to your oral health. However, serious cracks or splits can lead to the loss of your tooth without immediate dental attention. 

2. Fractured Roots

Fractures can also occur below the surface of the gums. Impact to the mouth from a certain angle can cause a crack to run from the crown to the root. In some situations, the crack can only run along the root. An emergency dentist can save your tooth from extraction if you don’t delay scheduling an appointment. 

3. Knocked-Out Tooth

Knocked-out or dislodged teeth are common among athletes. Contrary to common misconceptions, not all knocked-out teeth are gone for good. If you get to a dentist within 30 to 40 minutes, they may be able to save your tooth. However, if it is too badly damaged or treatment is delayed, you’ll need a replacement option, like a dental implant. 

Protect Your Smile with an Athletic Mouthguard

The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that 15 million Americans have sports-related dental situations every year. Furthermore, 10% of athletes will end up with a facial or dental injury during any given season. Your smile doesn’t have to become a victim of your favorite activity. 82% to 93% of athletes can avoid dental injuries with an athletic mouthguard.

You’ll find several mouthguards OTC, which appear convenient and affordable. However, they are not custom-fit and are made of poor-quality materials. As a result, they can do more harm than good if there’s any trauma to your mouth.

Instead, it’s best to turn to a professional. Your dentist can craft a high-quality mouthguard to fit your smile like a glove. It will provide maximum protection for your teeth, gums, jaw, and other oral tissues. Research has also shown it may lower your risk of concussion.

Don’t place your smile at risk of irreversible damage. Ask your dentist about adding the protection of an athletic mouthguard to your prevention plan.

About Dr. David Earnest

Dr. Earnest earned his dental degree at the University of Texas before continuing his education in general dentistry and dental implants. He has the qualifications and experience to treat the most complex oral health issues, including dental emergencies. Contact our office today to request an appointment.


   Dr. Aaron Haag



Dr. Aaron Haag and his caring, dedicated team offer comprehensive dental care in a unique and relaxing setting. We strive to make your experience in our office as comfortable and productive as possible.

View Bio

Dental services for clean, healthy teeth and gums


We believe in offering a wide selection of dental treatments to fix your problem teeth, and to maintain healthy, strong teeth and gums for the long run. From professional, advanced teeth whitening, to restorative dental services like dental implants, we have the dental services you need all under one roof.

Services offered include

  • Cleaning and Prevention
  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Veneers
  • Implants
  • Bridges
  • Dentures
  • Root Canals
  • Sedation Dentistry
  • Tooth Whitening
  • Clear Braces
  • Snoring Appliances
  • TMJ therapy
  • Oral Surgery
  • Emergency Visits

Experience Excellent, Personalized Dental Care at Comal Dental


The dental team of Comal Dental are dedicated to professional dental care. You can look forward to compassionate patient care within a relaxing office atmosphere, as we also offer sedation dentistry.

Our comfortable office offers the very best in dental technique and technology – expressly delivered with your total well being in mind. We work as a coordinated team to bring you the best in oral health care.

For your convenience in addition to normal business hours we are open some evenings by appointment only. We also accept most insurance plans, as well as all major credit cards.


We look forward to meeting you and to helping you achieve optimal oral health.


Hours and Location


Monday thru Friday:
8 am - 3 pm
Evenings & Weekends:
By Appointment

2660 Common Street
Suite 102
New Braunfels, TX 78130
P: (830)625-1515