April is National Facial Protection Month

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Waterville, Skowhegan and Dover–Foxcroft, ME will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Dr. Ruff and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Dr. Charles Ruff. Stay safe and have fun!

This summer, don't forget those mouth guards!

Dr. Ruff and our staff can't believe we're already halfway through summer! As the weather stays hot, the chances for mouth injuries for our athletes gets bigger and bigger. We'd like to remind our young athletes orthodontic treatment to always take care of both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact- and non-contact sports.

That includes wearing a mouth guard at all times when you're playing sports. Only by using a mouth guard can athletes with and without braces avoid serious mouth injuries. And don't forget to ask us for a mouth guard - we will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment! We hope you're having a great summer so far!

The importance of mouth guards, from Dr. Ruff

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s already springtime! The spring months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Ruff for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse and others. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with our office. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Ruff will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment with Dr. Ruff.