Did you know that in April we celebrate National Facial Protection Month? Take the time this month to review the importance of protecting your face and teeth against impact and injury while you enjoy your favorite activities.
Mouthguards
If you have a mouthguard, wear it! It really is a MUST if you participate in any sport where you can fall or make contact with a person or an object. A mouthguard can protect you against a variety of dental injuries, such as cracked, broken or knocked-out teeth. That is why wearing a mouthguard while participating in high-impact activities is essential in preventing dental injuries. And it’s not just your teeth—mouthguards protect your jaw, tongue and lips as well.
You can buy mouthguards in stock sizes or shape-to-fit models. However the Academy for Sports Dentistry advises that mouthguards should be custom-fitted as precisely as possible to prove effective. Having a custom mouthguard designed and fitted will offer better protection for your smile and your braces! After all the time and effort you’ve put into your orthodontic treatment, don’t let a sports injury prolong your journey.
What other items are essential for facial protection?
Helmets
Wearing a helmet can save your life and prevent devastating physical damage in an array of activities, from playing football to riding a bike. If there’s a helmet available for your sport, please wear it! Not only do helmets protect athletes from brain injury and concussion- helmets help protect the face and jaw as well. In fact, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, helmets reduce the risk of various head injuries by as much as 85 percent.
Face Guards
Face guards can help protect your face, eyes, jaws, and teeth while participating in contact sports. Many contact sports now recommend using face guards —it’s worth checking to see if your sport is one of them.
Eye Protection
Don’t forget eye protection! Protecting your eyes and the bones around them is very important. Please consider wearing safety glasses or a visor when applicable, you can also get sports goggles or protective sports glasses with prescription lenses to help you see clearly and keep you safe on the field.
Choosing the right combination of helmet, faceguard, mouthguard and eye protection can help protect your teeth and face on the field this April and all year long! To learn more about the importance of facial protection or to schedule an appointment with our doctors, please give us a call at our convenient Atlanta or Gwinnett office!
