Orthodontic Associates, helping you save face this summer

Wouldn’t you believe it, summer is only two weeks away! At Orthodontic Associates, we know that the summer months bring with them an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of our athletes damaging their teeth. If you're playing sports this summer, it's important that you consult Drs. Mayers, Ahman or Janowski for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard.

Our staff was reminded about the need to wear mouth guards after reading an article recently about hockey great Keith Tkachuk requiring reconstructive surgery after taking a puck to the mouth. Tkachuk’s injury underscores the need for all of our patients to use facial protection at all times when out on the field this summer.

In case of any accident involving the face, we want you to check your mouth and appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances are damaged, please schedule an appointment to see us immediately. And don’t forget to ask us—our doctors and staff will be more than happy to provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment!

Our team at Orthodontic Associates will tell you that only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call at one of our three convenient offices if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone!

The importance of mouth guards, with Orthodontic Associates

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. That’s part of the reason why our team at Orthodontic Associates is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Drs. Ahman, Mayers and Janowski will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Drs. Ahman, Mayers and Janowski are trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Orthodontic Associates.