It's almost summer, which means folks with braces are more active with sports and outside activities. There are some questions that many of our patients ask about taking care of teeth and braces during this very time.
1.
How do I protect my braces and teeth when playing sports?Ans.: You should always wear a mouthguard. With braces, we provide a mouthguard for all patients that covers the braces and protects the lips and checks and still allows the teeth to move.
2.
What activities should I use a mouthguard for?Ans.: All contact sports but also anything that could cause a fall or minor trauma such as rollerblading, rock and mountain climbing, mountain biking, and even regular biking (I broke a rib and punctured a lung riding alone on a paved road!).
3.
What if my tooth gets knocked out of position?Ans.: Call us immediately! (or your dentist). The tooth can be pushed back into the proper position if done right away. If you wait until tomorrow, it will have to be moved back with braces.
4.
What if my tooth gets knocked out?Ans.: Pick it up gently. (do not clean it off with anything). If dirty, gently rinse and put it into a glass of milk and call us or your dentist and we can put it back into the socket.
5.
Should I take my retainer out to play sports?Ans.: YES – and put your “custom” mouthguard in (made by us or your dentist) after braces are removed. Also remove your retainer while diving in a pool or swimming with waves or engaging in any activity that could cause it to be knocked out and lost.
Your teeth make your smile. Protect them and you can have a beautiful smile for a lifetime.
According to a March 2011 poll by Glamour Magazine, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Bernard and Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.
At Bernard & Eimer Orthodontics, we have a friendly, caring staff and a modern and comfortable facility in North Canton. One of our commitments is meeting with you to help you explore all or the options available to you or your child. We offer complimentary consultations for those interested in orthodontic treatment. This includes a complimentary x-ray and digital photos. All observation visits prior to treatment are also at NO CHARGE so you can bring your child at age 7 and not be charged until treatment is necessary.
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