The importance of mouthguards for athletes

With the arrival of spring, it marks the start of baseball and softball season. There are many options to protect your child from unnecessary mouth trauma. Typically mouth guards cover the teeth, and are designed to protect the mouth from trauma, such as: broken teeth, cut lips and other damage to the mouth. A mouth guard should be worn by anyone that participates in a contact sport, any activity that might result in injury to the mouth.

A custom mouth guard can be made in our office at an additional cost this ensures the proper fit, which makes it more comfortable and the best protection. Mouth guards can be made in a variety of colors. All professional athletes wear custom made mouth guards.

However, patients that are in braces or have an appliance cannot wear a custom mouth guard. These patients need to wear a pliable mouth guard (there is no charge) that allows their teeth to still move.

Check with our office before the season begins for a pliable mouth guard or a custom made one.

What’s A Smile Worth?

A recent study out of Great Britain found that just seeing a loved one’s smile was worth 8,500 Pounds or $13,175 U.S. dollars! The smile of a friend was valued less at $225 dollars. A subsequent British study of 1,000 adults rated smiling as more likely to give a short term high, than sex, candy or shopping (and in that order).

The next study needs to compare the value of a “straight smile” following braces with a crooked or spaced smile. Since smiles are valued so high, orthodontics to create the ideal smile is the ideal way to get the best “bang for your buck” when you smile.

Hygiene Tips for Orthodontic Patients, from Drs. Bernard & Eimer

People undergoing orthodontic treatment need to be even more dedicated to good oral hygiene than those that do not need treatment.

Braces trap food very easily, which contributes to plaque formation. If it is not carefully removed from the teeth and gums, patients will develop decay or gum disease. It is important to practice good oral hygiene by following instructions from your Dentist and Orthodontist on mouth care.

We will offer supplies to help combat plaque, such as; a proxabrush, dental floss and floss threaders. The use of an electric toothbrush and or a waterpik is very beneficial. Brush at least three times a day, it is best to always brush after each meal and at bedtime.

Remember to follow up with your regular Dentist for check-ups two times per year.

The benefits of a healthy lifestyle, from Drs. Bernard & Eimer

There is so much hype today about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, from the internet, television, books and magazines. It is a proven fact that exercise can improve and prolong one’s life. Schools have finally jumped on the fitness and nutrition band wagon, by increasing physical activity and improving school lunch choices. Starting your child out early with good nutrition and fitness habits has many advantages, they tend to be healthier, more active and social in school functions and their school work.

Exercise can improve your life in many ways. Studies show that a person that exercises regularly will sleep better and have an overall better quality of life. It releases endorphins that make you feel good. You have heard of a “Runners High”, this from the endorphins that are released during exercise. This can make you feel good about yourself and improve your mood. Your immune system gets a boost from physical activity, helping you to fight a cold or flu.

Researchers believe that exercise can improve your sleep quality and that morning exercise helps set your body clock. It can also add years to your life.

With this information in mind, go out and get some exercise, it can be as simple as a leisurely walk. As long as your body is in motion, you are reaping the benefits.