On guard—Annual mouth protector clinic is July 16

Under the supervision of faculty members, dental and dental hygiene students will make free, customized protective equipment for amateur athletes ages 5 and older in elementary, middle school, high school and college. Non-student athletes also are invited.

Children who have been fitted for braces are invited to attend with their parents. Student dentists and faculty carefully work with children with braces.

Dr. William Godwin, professor emeritus of dentistry and sports dentistry specialist, says a proper-fitting mouth guard is an important piece of equipment. "The mouth guard acts as a shock absorber, blunting the force of impact caused by falls or contact that occurs in athletic activities," he says. "The customized mouth guards, such as those made by the U-M dental and dental hygiene students, do more than save teeth. They also help to minimize head and neck injuries, such as concussions and jaw fractures."

"The customized mouth guards made by our dental students are considerably more comfortable than the off-the-shelf guard that are sold in stores," he adds. "We also know that the more comfortable the mouth guards are, the more likely the kids will wear them."

The event is at the School of Dentistry, 1011 N. University Ave., directly across the street from the Michigan League.

No appointment is necessary. Mouth guards will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Because the program is so popular, there could be a wait of 30 minutes for a chair.

The event is sponsored by School of Dentistry faculty and students. Several local dentists also volunteer their time.

For more information, visit http://www.dent.umich.edu.

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