As we welcome April and celebrate National Facial Protection Month, it’s a great time to remind ourselves about the importance of protecting our teeth and facial structure. Whether you’re engaging in sports, outdoor activities, or simply going about your daily routine, taking precautions to safeguard your face and smile should always be a top priority. At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we believe in proactive dental care, and during this special month, we want to emphasize how facial protection can make a lasting impact on both your oral health and overall well-being.
Why Facial Protection Matters
Our teeth are incredibly resilient. But they’re also susceptible to damage if not properly protected. Injuries to the face, jaw, and teeth can happen at any time. From an accidental fall to an unexpected collision in a sport, facial injuries can lead to painful, costly, and often long-term issues. The key to preventing such injuries is being prepared with the right protection.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes National Facial Protection Month every April as an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of using mouthguards and other protective gear. In fact, wearing facial protection can prevent many serious injuries to your teeth, jaw, and even your face.
The Role of Mouthguards in Facial Protection
Athletic mouthguards are one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth and reduce the risk of injury to your mouth and jaw. Many people are unaware that mouthguards aren’t just for athletes—they are a must for anyone engaging in physical activities where there’s a chance of impact.
Sports and Physical Activities
Athletes in contact sports such as football, basketball, or hockey are especially prone to facial injuries. According to the ADA, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard can reduce the risk of oral injury by up to 60%. In fact, mouthguards help absorb and distribute the force from impacts, thus reducing the likelihood of broken teeth, jaw fractures, or cuts to the lips and gums.
Even if you or your children participate in non-contact sports like skateboarding, bicycling, or even gymnastics, facial protection is still important. These activities, while less physically aggressive, can still result in falls or accidents that may cause harm to your teeth or facial structure.
Mouthguards for Other Uses
Besides sports, there are other scenarios where a mouthguard can be incredibly beneficial. For instance, if you grind your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), wearing a custom-fitted nightguard can protect your teeth from excessive wear and tear. The constant grinding can lead to tooth sensitivity, broken teeth, and even jaw pain. A nightguard helps reduce this pressure and protects the teeth during sleep.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards vs. Over-the-Counter
When it comes to mouthguards, there are two main options: over-the-counter models and custom-fitted mouthguards. While over-the-counter options are more affordable and easily accessible, they often don’t provide the same level of comfort and protection as custom-made mouthguards.
At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we offer custom-fitted mouthguards that are designed specifically for your teeth and mouth. These mouthguards offer a snug fit, making them more comfortable to wear, and they provide better protection against injuries. A custom mouthguard will also be better able to withstand impact, ensuring that your teeth stay safe during high-risk activities.
Other Forms of Facial Protection
While mouthguards are a key component of facial protection, they aren’t the only form of protection available. Depending on the activity, you might also want to consider additional equipment, such as face shields, helmets, or padded headgear.
Helmets and Face Shields
Helmets are another crucial piece of protective gear for activities like cycling, skateboarding, and skiing. They shield your head and face from serious injury in the event of an accident or fall. If your sport involves direct face-to-face contact, like in soccer or hockey, a helmet with a built-in face shield or cage can help protect both your face and teeth.
Padded Headgear
In certain contact sports, padded headgear can offer additional protection to the jaw, ears, and the area around the face. This extra layer of padding can be especially important in sports like wrestling or boxing, where the risk of facial trauma is higher.
The Long-Term Impact of Facial Injuries
While some facial injuries might seem minor at first, they can lead to long-term dental problems. For example, a chipped or broken tooth may not only cause pain and discomfort but can also result in further damage to your oral health if left untreated. In some cases, untreated injuries can lead to tooth loss, which can affect your ability to chew and speak properly.
Additionally, facial injuries may lead to more complex issues, such as misalignment of the jaw or problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This can cause discomfort, difficulty chewing, and even headaches. That’s why protecting your face is so important—not just to prevent the initial injury but also to avoid more severe complications in the future.
Preventing Accidents with Good Oral Hygiene
In addition to using facial protection, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Strong teeth are less likely to break or get damaged, so brushing and flossing regularly can help reduce the risk of injury during an accident. If you’re involved in an activity that puts your teeth at risk, healthy teeth are better equipped to handle the stress of a potential impact.
Tips for Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent cavities.
Floss daily to clean between your teeth and gums where your toothbrush may not reach.
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. This allows your dentist to catch any issues early and provide the necessary treatment to maintain your oral health.
National Facial Protection Month is a great opportunity to reassess the ways in which we protect our faces and smiles. Whether you’re an athlete, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to protect their oral health, there are simple, effective steps you can take to safeguard your smile.
At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we care about your overall well-being, which includes the health and protection of your teeth. If you need advice on the best mouthguard for your needs or if you have any concerns about facial protection, feel free to reach out to us. We are here to help with all your dental and oral hygiene needs in Glendora and beyond.
Remember, protecting your smile today can prevent painful and costly dental problems tomorrow. Stay safe and healthy this April and throughout the year!
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, and materials. Everything we use makes a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.
