The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is working with Arizona’s starting pitcher, Patrick Corbin, to promote National Facial Protection Month in April. Corbin is dedicated to facial protection and worked with the AAO on a radio public service campaign to encourage athletes of all ages to protect their mouths, teeth, and faces. His goal is to remind players of the importance of wearing a mouth guard, and the serious repercussions of an injury to the teeth.
National Facial Protection Month is an annual initiative that reminds athletes that wearing a mouth guard and appropriate safety gear at every practice and every game will help them stay safe during recreational and organized sports.
Corbin, All-Star starting pitcher for Arizona, is a prime example of a professional athlete who takes protecting his teeth seriously. Because baseballs may be hit at speeds over 100 mph in professional games, the pitcher protects himself on the mound by always wearing a mouth guard.
“Wearing a mouth guard on the field is just as important as any other protective gear,” says Corbin. “In baseball, a line drive can come at you when you least expect it, and it’s crucial to be protected at all times.”
AAO members may download the Patrick Corbin PSAs and, if desired, notify local radio stations about the PSAs and ask that they be aired. The PSAs are available in 10-second, 15-second, and 30-second formats.
In addition, a 3.5” by 2.5” Patrick Corbin “baseball card” featuring facial protection information, which may be printed out and distributed, is now available in the AAO Facial Protection Month collection. Instructions for printing the card for distribution to patients are included. Also available is an 8” by 10” photo of Patrick Corbin that can be displayed in your office. All materials may be used from April 1 through May 15, 2014.
