September in Champaign and Mahomet is a time of new beginnings. The kids are back in school, the air is getting crisp, and the sounds of high school football games fill the Friday night air. From the Champaign Centennial Chargers to the Mahomet-Seymour Bulldogs, our local student-athletes are giving it their all on the field. But with the thrill of fall sports comes the risk of injury, especially to the face and mouth.
As your local orthodontic specialist, Dr. Robert Shafer of Shafer Smiles wants to remind our community that September is National Childhood Injury Prevention Month. It’s the perfect time to talk about a simple yet crucial piece of equipment that can save your child’s smile: a custom-fitted mouthguard.
The Shocking Statistics on Sports-Related Dental Injuries
The numbers are staggering. According to the American Dental Association, over 5 million teeth are knocked out each year during sports activities. Many of these injuries could be prevented or minimized with the use of a mouthguard. While sports like football and hockey are obvious candidates for mouth protection, dental injuries are also common in basketball, soccer, baseball, and even gymnastics.
Here in Champaign County, we have a vibrant youth sports scene. Whether your child is playing for a school team or a recreational league at the Champaign Park District, their safety is paramount. A blow to the face without a mouthguard can lead to chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage, and even jaw fractures. For a child undergoing orthodontic treatment, the damage can be even more severe, potentially causing harm to their braces and prolonging their treatment time.
Why a Custom Mouthguard from Your Orthodontist is the Best Defense
You might see boil-and-bite mouthguards at the store, but they don’t offer the same level of protection as a custom-fitted one from an orthodontist. Here’s why a custom mouthguard from Shafer Smiles is the superior choice:
•Superior Fit: Dr. Shafer will take a precise impression of your child’s teeth to create a mouthguard that fits snugly and comfortably. This ensures it stays in place during impact and won’t interfere with breathing or speaking.
•Maximum Protection: A custom mouthguard is made from high-quality materials and is designed to absorb and distribute the force of an impact, providing the best possible protection for your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw.
•Orthodontic-Friendly: If your child has braces, a custom mouthguard is an absolute must. Dr. Shafer will design the mouthguard to fit over their braces, protecting both their teeth and their orthodontic appliance from damage.
A Community Commitment to Safety
At Shafer Smiles, we’re more than just an orthodontic practice; we’re part of the Champaign and Mahomet communities. We see our patients at the grocery store, at local events like the Mahomet Music Festival, and cheering on the sidelines of their games. Our commitment to your family’s well-being extends beyond our office walls.
Dr. Robert Shafer has years of experience in creating custom mouthguards for young athletes. He understands the importance of protecting your child’s smile so they can continue to enjoy the activities they love with confidence. Don’t let a preventable injury sideline your child or compromise their orthodontic treatment.
This fall sports season, make a custom-fitted mouthguard part of your child’s essential gear. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Shafer at our Champaign office by calling 217-356-9595. Let’s work together to keep our young athletes safe and their smiles bright!