Dr. Martin wants to know: Are you wearing your mouth guard?

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common this time of year, with kids getting more involved in sports activities such as touch- or tackle football, soccer and baseball. In a 2010 survey, the American Association of Orthodontists discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest fear is that their child will get hurt while playing organized sports, and that’s why Dr. Jennifer Martin and our staff are helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards.

Here are some common questions Dr. Martin and our team get about mouth guards and facial protection:

How do I prevent teeth from being chipped or broken?

Wear a mouth guard that you boil and bite into, however remember to re-boil the mouth guard ever 2 weeks to accommodate the movement that has occured from the braces.

What happens if a tooth gets knocked out?

Save the tooth! Put under tongue or place in glass of milk or saline solution. Don't scrub tooth. Call Dentist immediately, then call us after you have seen dentist so we can check all braces and wires. You can always reach a staff member in an emergency. Our numbers are on our voice message when you call our office.

How do I fix my teeth if I suffer an injury?

Your teeth can be fixed by your dentist. Give us a call to let Dr. Martin know as well.

Are sports drinks bad for my teeth?

Sports drinks are not "bad" for your teeth as long you are not drinking them on a daily basis. Water is the best drink for your teeth and to stay hydrated!

What if I'm wearing Invisalign? Should I still protect my teeth with a mouth guard?

Yes. While the invisalign aligners can help protect your teeth, but a mouth guard is the best to use when playing contact sports.

What about wearing my retainer while playing sports?http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

We recommend wearing your retainers only during practice. Take retainers out for games and remember to place them in your retainer case. Never put in sports bags or wrap them in tissue or napkins. They will either break or they will get thrown away!

Can I still wear a mouth guard with braces?

Yes, but please re-boil every two weeks. Sports stores also sell mouth guards specifically for braces that do not need to be boiled to accommodate braces.

Give us a call if you have any questions, or ask us on Facebook!