If you have chipped or broken your tooth, don’t worry – there are lots of things we can do to fix them even if they are very badly broken. Avoid eating anything hard until you have managed to see a dentist. You might also find a chipped tooth is much more sensitive to hot and cold – so avoid extremes of temperature too.
If you are reading this after knocking your tooth out, you will probably be in a bit of a state! What you do now can greatly help your chances of keeping the tooth. The British Dental Association Guidelines are:

• Hold the tooth by the part usually visible in the mouth, not by the root. Don't scrub the tooth or place it in disinfectant.
• If the tooth is clean, hold it by the white part (the bit that is usually visible) and, making sure it's the right way round, gently push it back into its socket.
• If the tooth is dirty, rinse it in milk or cold water before gently pushing it back into place.
• Hold the tooth in place by biting on a handkerchief and go to the dentist immediately for advice.
If you can't put the tooth back in, try this:
• Place it in a cup of milk or, if not available, keep the tooth in the mouth between the cheeks and gums.
• Don't let the tooth become dry and don't put it in disinfectant.
• Go to your dentist immediately. If this isn't possible, contact NHS Direct (0845 4647) to find out your nearest Accident & Emergency department that has a dentist on call.
Wearing a properly fitted gumshield will much reduce your chances of damaging your teeth whilst playing sport.