Did you know April is National Facial Protection Month? Your Gainesville pediatric dentist did! And now you can, too. A study published in the magazine Sport Health drew a line between the some 5 million teeth damaged or knocked out each year and the astronomical cost to the American public; that number adds up to $500 million. This just can’t continue. The dental industry agrees, athletes must wear protective mouthguards and head gear.

In honor of National Facial Protection Month, five leading dental organizations are teaming up:

To prevent sports-related dental injury

The Academy for Sports Dentistry (ASD), the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the American Dental Association (ADA) are co-sponsoring the annual campaign that encourages parents, caregivers and coaches to help prevent sports-related injuries to the head and face by using safety equipment. Athletes are urged to wear protective gear such as mouth guards and helmets to avoid being sidelined by an injury.

According to the five dental organizations, mouth protection should be fitted, light, strong, easy to clean and the correct size so it covers the gums and teeth.

Visit the co-sponsor websites listed below for more information and resources:

• The Academy for Sports Dentistry was established in 1983 as a forum for dentists, doctors, athletic trainers, coaches, dental technicians and educators for sharing ideas about sports dentistry and athletes’ dental needs.www.academyforsportsdentistry.org/
• Founded in 1947, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry is the membership organization of the specialty of pediatric dentistry with 10,000 members.www.mychildrensteeth.org
• Established in 1918, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons represents more than 9,000 oral and maxillofacial surgeons and supports its fellows and members through education, research and advocacy.www.myoms.org/saveface
• The American Association of Orthodontists, founded in 1900, is the world’s oldest and largest dental specialty organization, representing more than 18,000 orthodontist members.www.mylifemysmile.org
  The American Dental Association, founded in 1859, is the country’s largest dental association, representing more than 161,000 dentist members.www.mouthhealthy.org

Source: American Dental Association / PR Newswire

And remember, the best defense is a good offense. Contact your Gainesville pediatric dentist today to inquire about how you can protect your child’s face in April and all year long.