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Once you have made the decision to have a mouthguard, your next step is to decide what type of mouthguard.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests choosing a mouthguard that will fit you the best.  Your mouthguard needs to fit properly to keep it in place when in use.  A comfortable fit and proper thickness will ensure protection from your recreational activities.

Over The Counter Mouthguard: Boil and bite mouthguard, allows you to shape it to your bite and soft tissues after you have immersed it in hot water for a limited time and cooled.   These are best for growing patients or those in orthodontics.   Dr. Mary Rose recommends having her check to make sure the mouthguard you chose fits properly and will protect your smile.

Custom made Mouthguard: Custom made mouthguards allows you to have a mouthguard designed specifically for your mouth.  Dr. Mary Rose will take an impression of your mouth to create a mouthguard that can provide better protection.

Caring for your mouthguard is very important.  Dr. Mary Rose recommends following these instructions to keep your mouthguard clean and stay in great shape to protect your mouth.

Clean your mouthguard after each use: Dr. Mary Rose suggests using a toothbrush and toothpaste.  Rinse immediately and lay it on a clean surface to allow it to dry completely before storing it to prevent rapid bacterial grown. 

Always store your mouthguard in a case: Dr. Mary Rose recommends that you dry your mouthguard before placing it in the case.

Do not store your mouthguard in an extreme hot or cold environment: Extreme temperatures might cause the mouthguard to lose its shape.

Keep your mouthguard away from pets: Pets might take your mouthguard and chew on it causing you to have to purchase a new one.

Do not chew on your mouthguard: Chewing on your mouthguard will decrease the life of your mouthguard.

Bring your mouthguard with you to your dental appointments: Our office will be happy to clean your mouthguard for you and Dr. Mary Rose will check the appliance for any issues such as cracks or worn spots.

Enjoy the warmer weather and if you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Mary Rose would be happy to help you.

Brushing and Flossing: Dr. Mary Rose suggests brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day.  When selecting a toothbrush, use a soft bristled toothbrush.  The soft bristles are safer on your gums.  Flossing is very important.  It keeps your teeth and your gums healthy.  Flossing also helps remove food particles trapped between your teeth.  Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria.

Toothpaste: There is a wide variety of toothpaste on the market today.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests using a toothpaste that contains fluoride.  Fluoride helps prevent the growth of harmful oral bacteria, slows down the loss of minerals from tooth enamel as well as reverses early signs of tooth decay.

Diet:  A healthy diet is important for your overall health including your oral health.  Eating a variety of healthy foods (fruits, grains, vegetables, fluoridated water, protein and dairy) provides essential nutrients needed to have healthy teeth and gums.  If your diet lacks certain nutrients, your risk for gum disease, infection and tooth loss increases.

Nighttime Teeth Grinding/Clinching:  To avoid damage to your teeth, Dr. Mary Rose suggests an occlusal guard worn at night.  The mouthguard will protect your teeth, prevent headaches associated with grinding and clinching and will improve your sleep quality.

Regular Dental Visits: Dr. Mary Rose recommends scheduling regular hygiene visits.  During your visit, Dr. Mary Rose will be able to check for tooth decay, gum diseases, or any other potential problems. 

If you have any questions about maintaining a proper level of oral hygiene, Dr. Mary Rose would be happy to answer any concerns you may have during your visit to our office.

What is vaping and e-cigarettes?  Vaping is a way to “smoke” and take in addictive nicotine without tobacco.  Vaping devices are called E-cigarettes or e-cigs.  The vaping devices heat up the liquid which forms a fine mist the user inhales.  Many individuals use this method thinking it is healthier than the traditional cigarette. 

What are the health risks with E-cigarettes?  Like traditional cigarettes, E-cigarettes contain various harmful chemicals and particles.  The mist created by the E-Cigarettes contain chemicals that are known to cause cancer, asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).  Individuals using the E-cigarettes are also inhaling particles like nickel, lead and tin.  E-cigarettes may come in various flavors which draws young teens to try them and become addicted.  These added flavorings also increase the risk for cavities.

If you have any questions about how to quit smoking E-cigarettes or traditional tobacco products, Dr. Mary Rose would be happy to discuss options. 

While most people associate February with Valentines Day, February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month!  This month, Dr. Mary Rose focuses on the importance of oral health in children.

Just like adults, children should visit their dentist every six months.  This helps develop good oral health habits, which will lead to a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth.  Dr. Mary Rose suggests making a hygiene appointment as soon as the first baby teeth come in.  Children usually see their first baby tooth between 6 months to one year of age.

Last month, Dr. Mary Rose discussed the benefits of sealants.  After sealants are applied in children, the risk of decay can be reduced by nearly 80% in molars. 

If your child is diagnosed with decay on their primary (baby) teeth or their permanent teeth, Dr. Mary Rose recommends that the decay is removed to allow your child to eat and speak normally.  Removing decay will prevent the child from developing an abscess as well as keeping their teeth from shifting.

Dr. Mary Rose suggests brushing your child’s teeth as soon as the first one appears.  If your child is under 3 years old, you only need a small amount of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).  Dr. Mary Rose suggests flossing your child’s teeth daily starting at the age of 3.  Lastly, make sure your child eats a well-balanced diet. 

If you have any questions about your child’s hygiene, Dr. Mary Rose would be happy to answer any questions you may have.