3 Easy Ways to Get Involved in Sports Dentistry

Are you passionate about helping athletes protect their smiles and perform their best? Sports dentistry is an exciting and growing field that combines clinical expertise with the thrill of teamwork and on-field care. Whether you're a dental student, a new graduate, or an established practitioner looking to expand your scope, there are simple ways to dive into this rewarding specialty — and the Academy for Sports Dentistry (ASD) is here to support you every step of the way.

Why Sports Dentistry?

Sports dentistry sits at the intersection of oral health and athletic performance. As a sports dentist, you'll work with athletes at every level — from youth leagues to professional teams — preventing dental injuries, managing trauma, and creating custom protective equipment. It's a field where your clinical skills directly impact an athlete's ability to compete safely and confidently.

Ready to explore this dynamic specialty? Here are three actionable ways to get started.

1. Join the Academy for Sports Dentistry

Your first step should be becoming a member of the ASD. This connection opens doors to a vibrant network of dentists, athletic trainers, and healthcare professionals who share your passion for athlete care. Membership isn't just about joining an organization, it's about becoming part of a community.

What you'll gain as an ASD member:

Access to exclusive webinars and continuing education courses that keep you current on the latest protocols and techniques. You'll have networking opportunities with professionals working alongside elite athletes in organizations like the NBA, NFL, and NCAA. Members also receive discounts on ASD events, including the prestigious Certified Team Dentist Course and Annual Symposium.

Student tip: If you're still in dental school, take advantage of discounted student memberships. It's an affordable way to start building your sports dentistry foundation and making connections that can shape your career path.

2. Learn from the Experts

The beauty of sports dentistry is that there's always something new to learn — and the ASD provides year-round educational opportunities designed to strengthen both your clinical and on-field skills. From complimentary webinars like "Tips and Tricks for Treating Amateur Teams" to comprehensive certification courses, you'll develop the confidence to manage dental trauma, fabricate custom mouthguards, and collaborate effectively with athletic training staff.

Mark your calendar: The ASD Certified Team Dentist Course is scheduled for February 27–28, 2026, at Glidewell Dental Lab in Irvine, California. This intensive course features instructors with over 150 years of combined experience and offers 11.25 continuing education units. You'll leave with practical skills you can implement immediately, whether you're working with a local high school team or aspiring to join a professional organization.

These courses go beyond lecture halls. You'll engage in hands-on learning, case discussions, and real-world scenarios that prepare you for the unique challenges of sideline dentistry.

3. Attend the Global Symposium

There's no better way to immerse yourself in the world of sports dentistry than attending the ASD Global Symposium. The 43rd Annual event, "Beyond the Mouthguard," takes place June 11–13, 2026, in sunny San Diego, California.

This three-day experience brings together dentists, physicians, athletic trainers, and educators for a unique blend of education, hands-on sessions, and networking opportunities. It's the only forum dedicated entirely to the prevention and treatment of sports-related dental injuries, making it an invaluable experience for anyone serious about this field.

Whether you're learning the latest research on concussion protocols, perfecting your mouthguard fabrication technique, or simply connecting with colleagues over shared experiences, the symposium offers something for everyone — from curious beginners to seasoned team dentists.

Your Journey Starts Now

Sports dentistry offers a unique opportunity to combine your clinical expertise with your love of athletics. You'll work with motivated patients, be part of a team environment, and know that your skills directly contribute to athlete safety and performance.

The Academy for Sports Dentistry provides the roadmap, the education, and the community you need to succeed. Whether you're joining as a student exploring your options or an established practitioner ready to expand your practice, these three steps will set you on the right path.

Ready to get started? Learn more about ASD membership, upcoming courses, and the Global Symposium at the Academy for Sports Dentistry website. Your future in sports dentistry is waiting, and there's never been a better time to take that first step.

The Academy for Sports Dentistry is the leading organization dedicated to sports dentistry education, research, and advocacy. Connect with us to discover how you can make a difference in athlete oral health.