This month, summer kicks off, and it’s a time when many people are spending more time outside and enjoying many different types of sports. June is Men’s Health month, so we think it’s the perfect time to talk a bit about general health, its connection with oral health and especially how to enjoy sports while protecting your teeth.
Lots of you will know that our dentist, Dr. Christopher Kerns is a health coach and trainer, so these are subjects he feels passionately about and loves to discuss with patients. Exercise is fantastic on so many levels, promoting improved cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure and stress levels while being out in the fresh air is naturally exhilarating. We now know much more about the connection between oral and systemic health, and exercise is vital for good overall health. If you play team sports, then you will enjoy the health benefits while socializing with others, but please, don’t forget to protect your teeth.
Millions of Teeth are Knocked Out Each Year
Many teams and contact sports carry a risk of dental injuries. A blow to the jaws can chip, crack or even knock out a tooth. Did you know that 5 million teeth are knocked out each year, and men are twice as likely as women to get injured? Why risk the discomfort and expense of a dental injury when a sports guard could help to prevent it?
Protecting Your Pearly Whites
It might be impossible to eliminate all risk, but a well-fitting, custom-made, sports guard can help tremendously. Some people mistakenly think mouthguards are uncomfortable to wear, primarily if they have previously purchased an over-the-counter mouthguard that offers minimal protection at best. A custom-made, sports mouthguard is an entirely different matter and is fabricated to fit precisely over your teeth. Unlike a stock mouthguard, it gives your teeth and jaws the maximum amount of protection. A custom sports guard is comfortable to wear, without hindering your breathing, so you feel motivated to use it. Our sports guards are made from durable, odor-free and neutral-tasting materials, and can be thickened to provide greater protection in critical areas.
Night Guards for Stress Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism)
While we are discussing mouthguards, we’d like to talk a bit about night guards for clenching and grinding. It is serious because bruxism can cause enormous damage to your teeth and jaws. In the worst case, it can cause tooth loss. If your partner has complained you grind in your sleep (it can be a very noisy habit!), or you have noticed increased tooth sensitivity or chips and cracks in your teeth, visit us here at Primo Smiles. Dr. Kerns can quickly diagnose any signs of bruxism, and a custom night guard is an effective way to protect your teeth. Made from a tough thermoplastic material, a night guard fits comfortably over your upper teeth, preventing clenching and grinding. Consider taking up a sport that could help break your bruxism habit if you feel like your stress levels are too high.
Enjoy the Summer, The Safe Way
Whether it's one or many sports you partake in the summer, be sure to protect your teeth while enjoying your favorite outdoor activity. The good news is Dr. Kerns cares about your overall health and wants to help to ensure your teeth are safe while you are enjoying your summer.