National Face Protection Month

April is National Facial Protection Month. As we return to outdoor sports and other activities, April is an appropriate time to remind you about the importance of taking a few precautions to preserve your teeth and be protected from dental and facial injuries. Whether at a practice, at a game, or simply enjoying some fun in the neighborhood, it’s important to play it safe.

Wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports. Mouth guards can help prevent injury to a person’s teeth, mouth and jaw, and they are significantly less expensive than the cost to repair an injury, which can reach thousands of dollars over a lifetime. Follow the good example of MLB All-Star pitcher Patrick Corbin, who wears a mouth guard every time he takes to the mound.
Wear a helmet. Helmets absorb the energy of an impact and help prevent damage to the head.
Wear protective eyewear. Eyes are extremely vulnerable to damage, especially when playing sports.
Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin. Hockey pucks, basketballs, and racquetballs can cause severe facial damage at any age.

At Farmington Valley Orthodontics, we provide complimentary mouthguards to patients while in braces treatment. While they still allow orthodontic tooth movement, they provide protection to the lips and cheeks in the event of impact with the mouth.

While any mouthguard is better than no mouthguard at all, the best fitting mouthguard, i.e. a custom mouthguard, provides the greatest protection.

In support of National Facial Protection Month, a custom mouthguard is free with every new patient exam. April is the perfect time to get into the mouthguard habit. For friends and family not currently in braces, we’re pleased to offer custom mouthguards in a variety of colors with the option of a strap to attach to helmets. Wear one at every practice and every game.

Information provided by Dr. Menjivar & The Smile Team

Farmington Valley Orthodontics