A mouth guard is a soft plastic or
laminate device used in sports to prevent oral injuries to the teeth, mouth,
cheeks, tongue and jaw. According to the American Dental Association, one third
of all dental injuries are sports related. They also estimate that the use of a
mouth guard can prevent more than 200,000 oral injuries to the mouth each year.
Any athlete may be at risk for oral
injury but mouth guards are mandatory in collision sports such as football,
hockey and boxing where the risk of injury is likely. The most common types of dental injuries without
the use of a mouth guard include; chipped or broken teeth, fractured crowns or
bridgework, lip and cheek injuries, root damage to the teeth, fractured jaws,
and concussions. In addition, a recent
study showed that fifty-six percent of all concussions were suffered when mouth
guards were not worn.
A mouth guard is essential for all
athletes. Contact us
today to learn more!
Why did you choose this career? What brought you to it what do you like most about it?
When I was 13, I went through orthodontic treatment because my four
front teeth stuck straight out. The result of the treatment had a huge
impact on my life. Not only did it influence my smile, but I can
remember how it affected my self-esteem as well. Today, I enjoy seeing
how our treatment has the same effect on kids!
Why Parks and Schmit? What is different about this office for you?
We are the only group practice in the Cedar Rapids area. For our
patients this means extended hours, multiple locations, and flexible
treatment times. In addition, it means that we are able to get the best
people who truly care about our patients!
What’s your favorite dental hygiene tip for keeping your smile looking great?
Brush your gum line when you’re done brushing your teeth. This helps
to keep your gum tissue pink and healthy, and adds to the beauty of a
smile!
What do you do in your free time that keeps you smiling?
If I’m not at the office or shuttling one of my three boys to a sporting event, you can find me on the golf-course!
