DR SAUL KONVISER, DR MARTINE NUREK, PROF IAN NEEDLEMAN, PROF PETER FINE

Introduction

This article summarises key findings from recent research published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine by Konviser et al. (2025).1 The study examined the oral health of 160 academy football players from 10 English clubs, highlighting an early onset of oral disease and its potential impact on player wellbeing and performance. The findings raise critical questions for the wider football medicine community.

Background: A Hidden Health Burden in Footballers

Poor oral health contributes to pain, systemic inflammation and diminished sporting performance capacity,2-8 with previous research into professional footballers in the UK showing high levels of untreated dental caries, gum disease and a perceived negative performance impact.9 The study by Konviser et al. (2025)1 reported that these issues were already present in football academies. Key Findings from the recent research published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine by Konviser et al. (2025).1 The study examined the oral health of 160 academy football players from 10 English clubs, highlighting an early onset of oral disease and its potential impact on player wellbeing and performance. The findings raise critical questions for the wider football medicine community.