National Facial Protection Month

April is National Facial Protection Month.  The dentists at 21st Century Dental advise kids to play it SAFE!!!  Wearing the proper protective gear can prevent almost all sporting injuries. Dental professionals take the opportunity during the month of April to advise young athletes to play it safe by wearing mouth guards and other appropriate protective gear when participating in sporting events!! 

Mouth guards are one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment.  There are over the counter versions that cost as little as five dollars.  However, custom fitted mouth guards offer greater protection from injuries.  Mouth guards serve several purposes to the athlete.  They save teeth, protect from breaks and may also protect against injuries to the neck and central nervous system.

It is our job to inform the patients on the significant importance of having a mouth guard to protect from severe injury.  Parents and coaches should always remind the youngsters to wear their mouth guards anytime there is a chance of mouth or jaw injury.

Consistent use of ALL protective equipment is very important at all times.  When purchasing a mouth guard it is more important to think about keeping your child protected rather than having to pay costly medical bills to repair an injury that could have been prevented.

Important tips to remember to prevent injuries are:

~wear mouth guards at all time for contact sports

~wear a helmet to absorb the energy of an impact.

~wear protective eyewear

~wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin

~be alert even as a spectator

~use common sense!!  Anytime there could be a risk of dental or facial injury, gear up!!!