Be Sure To Protect Your Smile While Playing Sports

Published by Dr. Charles Gemmi

A Board Certified Orthodontist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Dr. Charles Gemmi has been a practicing orthodontist with Orthodontics Limited since 2000 and is a member of the teaching staff at Einstein Medical Center. Orthodontics Limited is a Diamond+ Provider of Invisalign in Philadelphia and Hatboro, PA.

5,000,000 TEETH ARE KNOCKED OUT during sporting events each year according to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation. Yes, that’s six zeros, meaning five million! If people don’t start protecting themselves, the Tooth Fairy may be able to retire—and we don’t want that!

April is National Facial Protection Month. Regardless of your age (adults get teeth knocked out too), we want to help you keep your smile beautiful.

Yes, You Should Wear A Sports Guard While In Braces

While you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, you need to protect your teeth and your braces. By simply wearing properly fitted mouthguards and other forms of protective gear, athletes of all ages can greatly reduce the risk of traumatic facial injury. So, this spring, as team rosters fill up and your urge to hit the field or court grows stronger, remember to use appropriate protective gear.

Some Safety Tips For You And Your Family

  1. Wear a mouthguard for all contact sports including baseball, soccer, football, and lacrosse. Other sports may apply too!
  2. Wear a helmet and/or protective eyewear when appropriate. Face shields can also help protect your skin.
  3. Be alert. Whether in the game or cheering from the sidelines, pay attention.
  4. Avoid wearing retainers or any removable appliance when playing contact sports. Let us know if you have any questions.

Check out this fun video highlighting the importance of mouthguards!

We want everyone to be active but smart during the upcoming seasons and beyond! If you’re unsure of the type of protective gear you should wear with your braces or other orthodontic treatment, please ask us, we’re here to help make sure you have a blast this spring and summer, all while being safe.

Add Your Story

Have any of you had an experience where protective gear really made a difference? We want to hear about it. Leave it in the comments below or on our Facebook page.

Thanks for being our valued patients and friends.

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