Procedures

Sports Guards

When would I need to use a sports Guard ?

Mouth guards are an important piece of athletic equipment for anyone participating in a sport that involves falls, body contact or flying equipment. This includes football, basketball, baseball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, gymnastics, mountain biking, any activity that might result in an injury to the mouth.

What are Mouth Guards and Sports Guards, and how do they work ?

Sports Guards, Mouth Guards and Mouth Protectors are different names for the same thing: a device worn over Your Child's teeth that protects them from blows to the face and head. Mouth guards typically cover the upper teeth, and are designed to protect against broken teeth, cut lips and other damage to Your Child's mouth. If Your Child wears braces or other fixed dental appliances (such as a bridge) on your lower jaw, the Dentist may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth as well.
The types of guards discussed above are each for a specific purpose and most are available as over the counter one size fits all appliances. That being said these options leave allot to be desired compared to custom made mouth guards. Custom made guards are individually designed and made at the Dentist's office or a professional dental laboratory. Not surprisingly, they are likely to provide the most comfortable fit and best protection. The Dentist will make an impression of Your Child's teeth and then constructs the mouth guard over a model of them. Because they fit and feel better, most athletes prefer customized mouth guards. Because they are designed well they are less likely to interfere with breathing and speech and because they fit well they are more likely to be worn when the situation warrants their use. Because of the labor involved in thier construction they are also the most expensive.

About Dr. Thanos

Specialising in Pediatric Dentistry.

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Dr. Thanos was born in Athens, Greece. His first visit to the United States was in 1964 when he was invited as an American Field Service Exchange Student. He went on to attend Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania as a Fulbright Scholar, one of the highest academic honors a student can earn.

In 1971, Dr. Thanos received his dental degree from the University of Athens, Greece. For the next two years he continued advanced studies at the University of London, England where he specialized in pediatric dentistry at the Eastman Dental Hospital. In 1973, Dr. Thanos was a postdoctoral scholar at the UCLA School of Dentistry where he furthered his studies in biomaterials science and pediatric dentistry. He completed his fellowship and received certificates in both pediatric dentistry and cranio-facial genetics at UCLA Harbor Hospital.

In 1977, Dr. Thanos joined the faculty of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. He served as a chairman of the department of Advanced Pediatric Dentistry from 1979 to 1985. During that period, he initiated the Specialized Clinic of Esthetic Dentistry where he served as director until 1992.

Dr. Thanos is not only a gifted dentist, he is also a respected scientist in his field and has published numerous research monographs. He is considered a pioneer in the field of esthetic dentistry. He has been participating in the Torrance community for over thirty years.

About Dr. Dalis

Specialising in General and Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Dr. Dalis is a lifelong South Bay resident, having grown up in Torrance, with strong ties to the community. He attended the University of Southern California where he earned his undergraduate degree in exercise physiology. Upon graduation, he attended the USC School of Dentistry where he was awarded his certificate.

Dr. Dalis is trained in all aspects of dentistry including all the latest cosmetic treatments, implants, endodontics, and the utilization of digital X Ray technology. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association and the Western Los Angeles Dental Society. Dr. Dalis' frequent attendance of continuing education courses keeps him up to date on all the latest topics and procedures in the field of dentistry and oral care.

Dr. Dalis has lectured for the American Cancer Society in the areas of oral cancer and tobacco cessation. In addition, he served on the scientific health and advisory board of Redondo Union High School. In his free time, he enjoys relaxing, playing beach volleyball, hiking, and has a love for music, movies and travel.

Forms And Notices

Downloadable forms (perfect for completing before your visit to save time).

Intake Information

Patient Information and Insurance Data

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Notices

Prop 65 and other Legal Notices

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Pediatric Intake Forms

Patient Information For Children

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