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Dr. Cameron Named “Official Dentist” for the Tri-Cities Otters Soccer Team

Saturday, April, 28, 2018

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Cameron and Sophisticated Smiles have been named the “Official Dentist” for the 2018 Season for the Tri-Cities Otters Soccer Team.  The Otters are a minor league soccer team (Football Club, aka FC) that was founded in 2016. She and her husband Dr. Jason Cunningham have been members of the team’s “Founder’s Club” since 2016.

Dr. Cameron is working closely with the coaches and players to make certain that the players’ teeth are protected during the games by encouraging the players to wear custom fitted sports guards such as the ones made by Under Armour.  For more information about the Otters visit them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ottersoccer/  or you can follow them on twitter @ottersoccer 

Mouthguards protect against injury to the teeth and also against injury to the jaw. The shape of each person’s mouth and teeth are different, so it makes since that a one-size-fits-all approach to a mouthguard is not going to give you the protection you need. In fact, a poorly fitted mouthguard can cause even more damage when hit with an intense force. Properly fabricated, custom-fit mouthguards play a significant role in not only preventing dental injuries and injuries to the jaw, but also in reducing concussions, pulpal injury and the loss of teeth. Mouthguards are used to relieve the stress concentrated on the teeth by absorbing the shock vibrations that cause injury.

Let’s take a look at the basic functions of the mouthguard:

  • Mouthguards prevent cuts and bruising during impact.
  • Mouthguards prevent tooth fractures or dislocations by cushioning the teeth.
  • Opposite teeth are protected from contact with each other.
  • The lower jaw is protected so impact does not fracture or damage the bone.
  • Mouthguards help reduce injury to the brain. Without a mouthguard, the force that hits the mouth can cause the jaws to violently jar together which can result in a concussion.
  • Mouthguards are used as a preventative measure against neck injuries.
  • Mouthguards help athletes feel more comfortable and protected.

Sports injuries can cause lasting damage. It goes beyond just the possibility of losing a tooth. Some jaw and neck injuries can prevent an athlete from ever playing sports again. This does not just pertain to professional sports. High school and college football players are just as likely to obtain a facial injury. 

Oral injury is not something to leave to chance. Yes, you may play over 100 games without incident, but it only takes one time of getting hit the wrong way and you can have a permanent injury. If you need help with getting yourself or your child a custom fit mouthguard, be sure to visit a dentist before that next game!

Sophisticated Smiles