Tackling kids' sport safety with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai are trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics.

Flossing 101

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth. Many people think that flossing is only to get the food out from in between your teeth, when actually flossing should be done every day on every tooth to help protect your teeth and gums.

What helps you relax at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics?

Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai understand not everyone is thrilled to see their orthodontist. But they want you to know that we strive to bring you exceptional orthodontic care in the most gentle, efficient and caring manner. We care about our patients, and we take time to evaluate your individual case and deliver the right treatments for the best results. We’d like to know: What is it about Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Drs. Tom and Doug? Dr. Joe?

Let us know by posting on our Facebook page, or by giving us a call!

Getting social with the Braces Brigade!

At Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at Kirkpatrick & Lai Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Drs. Kirkpatrick and Lai.