Talking mouth guards with Drs. Terry and Bill Dischinger

Spring may be a time for sports, sun and fun, but it's also a time when you have to be careful if you play sports. At Dischinger Team Orthodontics, we know how important it is to protect your face and pearly whites while participating in sports activities. With spring around the corner, Drs. Bill and Terry Dischinger know the spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities—and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. Our dedicated team at Family Orthodontics also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get injured while playing sports.

That’s why our team is doing its part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. If you play sports, it's important that you consult us for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing contact sports. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.

And, ask us—Drs. Dischinger will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. 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. Bill and Terry Dischinger are trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Dischinger Team Orthodontics.