Are Footballers at Greater Risk of Dental Injuries Than Ever Before?

Dental injuries are becoming an unexpected hallmark of football, raising questions about player safety

When we think about football injuries, we often picture torn ligaments, sprained ankles, or concussion debates. But lately, there’s been another injury quietly making its mark on the sport—dental trauma. Watching Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez lose part of his front tooth after an elbow to the face during a recent match was a stark reminder of how the beautiful game can leave permanent scars, even on the smile.

In recent years, dental injuries have crept into the spotlight, with high-profile players like Dani Olmo also making headlines for similar incidents. Such injuries are not just painful; they can be expensive, time-consuming to treat, and, frankly, avoidable. This begs the question: why are we seeing such a rise in dental trauma in modern football?

The answer lies partly in the evolution of the game. Football today is faster, more physical, and more competitive than ever before. Players are stronger, tackles are harder, and aerial duels are more frequent. All of this increases the likelihood of collisions that can lead to dental injuries. The pace of the modern game leaves little room for error, and one mistimed elbow or clash of heads can have devastating consequences. It’s not just a matter of bad luck; it’s a byproduct of the sport’s intensification.

Another factor is the lack of proper protection. While shin guards are mandatory, and helmets are becoming more common in other contact sports, mouthguards are rarely seen in football. This is surprising, given that they are a simple and effective way to prevent dental injuries. Yet, many players avoid them, citing discomfort or difficulty in communicating on the pitch. The culture of football, which often prioritizes toughness over precaution, may also play a role in this resistance to protective gear.

That said, the responsibility doesn’t rest solely on the players. Football governing bodies and clubs need to step up their efforts to protect athletes. This could mean mandating the use of mouthguards, improving medical protocols for head and facial injuries, or even tweaking rules to penalize reckless challenges more severely. After all, prevention is always better than cure, especially when the cure involves dental surgery.

For clubs like Barcelona, the issue is particularly pressing. With a packed schedule of domestic and international matches, player availability is crucial. Losing a key player to an avoidable injury can derail a team’s season. Beyond the practical implications, there’s also a moral obligation to ensure players’ long-term health and well-being. Footballers are not just athletes; they’re human beings who deserve to retire with their bodies—and teeth—intact.

As someone who has followed and written about football for decades, I find it both fascinating and frustrating that such a preventable issue is being overlooked. Dental injuries may not be as headline-grabbing as a torn ACL or a concussion, but they are just as impactful on a player’s career and quality of life. It’s time for football to take dental trauma seriously and make the necessary changes to protect its players. Because at the end of the day, no one should have to choose between playing the sport they love and keeping their smile intact.

References: Fermin Lopez becomes latest Barcelona player needing trip to dentist – Barca Blaugranes