Be Sure To Protect Your Smile While Playing Sports
by Monica Contract, DMD
5,000,000 TEETH ARE KNOCKED OUT during sporting events each year, according to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation. Yes, that’s six zeros, meaning five million! If people don’t start protecting themselves, the Tooth Fairy may be able to retire—and we don’t want that!
Regardless of your age (adults get teeth knocked out too), we want to help you keep your smile beautiful.
Protective Gear Greatly Reduces Chances of Injury
By simply wearing properly fitted mouthguards and other forms of protective gear, athletes of all ages can greatly reduce the risk of traumatic facial injury. So, this spring, as team rosters fill up and your urge to hit the field or court grows stronger, remember to use appropriate protective gear.
Three Safety Tips For You And Your Family
- Wear a mouthguard for all contact sports including baseball, soccer, football, and lacrosse. Other sports may apply too!
- Wear a helmet and/or protective eyewear when appropriate. Face shields can also help protect your skin.
- Be alert. Whether in the game or cheering from the sidelines, pay attention.
We want everyone to be active but smart during the upcoming seasons and beyond! If you’re unsure of the type of protective gear you should wear for a sport or outdoor activity, please ask us. We’re here to help make sure you have a blast this spring and summer, all while being safe.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions about your oral health or any of the special challenges we’ve talked about above, be sure to ask us! There are lots of easy ways to connect with us—and we promise to be very responsive! You can find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamsburgdentist , you can email us at appts@wmbgsmiles.com, or you can call us at 757-220-6727.
1130 Old Colony Lane, Suite 100 • Williamsburg, VA 23185 • (757) 220-6727
About the Author
Dr. Monica Contract was born and raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. In 2005, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Juniata College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Dr. Contract then attended the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine from which she graduated second in her class with a Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD).
In 2010, Dr. Contract completed a General Practice Residency at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. During this residency, she received advanced dental training in most of the dental specialties and developed the skills necessary to treat medically compromised patients.
Dr. Contract moved to the Williamsburg area in 2010 and has had the pleasure of working at Williamsburg Smiles ever since. At her office, Dr. Contract utilizes the latest technology including a dental laser, modern sterilization, one-visit in-office whitening, computerized operatories, intraoral cameras, and digital radiography. Additionally, each treatment room offers cable TV and DVD movies for patient enjoyment.
As a general dentist, Dr. Contract provides comprehensive care for her patients including white fillings, sealants, crowns, bridges, root canal therapy, and Invisalign clear braces. Additionally, she is recognized for her adept skill in providing pediatric dentistry, implant treatment, extractions, dentures and partial dentures.
Dr. Contract is active in numerous professional and community affairs. She enjoys being an Assistant Professor at Thomas Nelson Community College, where she teaches the anesthesia curriculum for their dental hygiene program. She is involved with Give Kids a Smile and serves as a team captain for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk. In addition to practicing dentistry, Dr. Contract enjoys spending time with her husband, Nick, and their two dogs Henry and Zena. She is an avid reader and enjoys playing tennis, biking and traveling.
Author
