Posts Categorized: Uncategorized

The Essential Guide to Choosing Mouthguards

teeth protection in sport, sport mouthguards guide
28
Apr
2024

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

In the dynamic world of sports, the exhilaration of competition comes with its share of risks, particularly to oral health. Among the plethora of protective gear, mouthguards emerge as a crucial, albeit often underestimated, shield against dental injuries. Their importance transcends age groups and levels of play, making them indispensable for athletes across the board. However, not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. The choice between over-the-counter (OTC) options and professionally made mouthguards could be the difference between a close call and a trip to the dentist. This comprehensive guide delves into why professionally made mouthguards are the gold standard for athletes who take their safety seriously.

The Critical Role of Mouthguards in Sports Safety

Mouthguards serve as the first line of defense against a spectrum of dental injuries, from cracked and broken teeth to more severe jaw fractures and concussions. They work by absorbing and dispersing impact forces that can cause harm, offering not just protection but also peace of mind to athletes and their families. Despite their importance, many athletes rely on OTC mouthguards for convenience and cost-saving reasons, unknowingly compromising on safety and effectiveness.

The Limitations of OTC Mouthguards

While OTC mouthguards provide a basic protection level, they fall short in several critical areas. These include:

  • Generic Fit: OTC mouthguards, including “boil and bite” models, offer a generic fit that might not account for the unique dental structure of each athlete, potentially leading to discomfort, breathing difficulties, or even dislodgement during play.
  • Limited Shock Absorption: The materials used in OTC mouthguards may not provide optimal shock absorption, reducing their effectiveness in preventing dental injuries.
  • Durability Concerns: These mouthguards are often made from less durable materials, requiring frequent replacements and potentially offering decreased protection over time.

The Superiority of Professionally Made Mouthguards

In contrast, professionally made mouthguards offer unmatched advantages:

  • Custom Fit for Maximum Protection: Created from a mold of the athlete’s teeth, these mouthguards ensure a perfect fit, enhancing comfort and ensuring the guard stays in place, providing superior protection against injuries.
  • Advanced Materials and Design: Utilizing cutting-edge materials with excellent shock-absorbing properties, professional mouthguards offer heightened protection. Their design can also be customized based on the athlete’s specific needs and the demands of the sport.
  • Built-in Layers for Enhanced Safety: The multi-layer construction of professional mouthguards significantly improves their ability to protect against impacts, contributing to their effectiveness in preventing concussions and other severe injuries.
  • Long-Term Durability and Cost-Effectiveness: Despite the higher initial cost, the durability and superior protection of professionally made mouthguards make them a more economical choice over time.

Conclusion: A Worthwhile Investment in Safety

The decision to opt for a professionally made mouthguard is a testament to an athlete’s commitment to safety. By offering a custom fit, utilizing advanced materials, and providing enhanced protection, these mouthguards are an indispensable part of an athlete’s gear. As the sports world continues to evolve, recognizing the importance of mouthguards in safeguarding one’s smile and well-being remains a constant. Whether you’re an amateur enjoying a weekend game or a professional athlete aiming for the next championship, investing in a professional mouthguard is investing in your health, performance, and peace of mind.

Using mouthguards to reduce the incidence and severity of sports-related oral injuries (researchgate.net)

Using mouthguards to reduce the incidence and severity of sports-related oral injuries – The Journal of the American Dental Association (ada.org)

 

 

The Critical Role of Mouthguards in Sports Safety: Protecting Your Smile Across All Ages

sport safety with mouthguards
14
Apr
2024

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

Sports and physical activities are fundamental to a healthy lifestyle, promoting cardiovascular health, strength, and mental well-being. However, with the thrill of the game comes the risk of injury, not just to limbs but crucially, to teeth and the mouth. This is where the role of a mouthguard, an often overlooked piece of protective gear, comes into sharp focus. Regardless of age or the level of competition, wearing a mouthguard is a simple yet effective strategy to safeguard your oral health during sports.

Why Mouthguards Matter

A mouthguard is more than just a piece of plastic. It’s a shield that absorbs and disperses the impact force that can cause serious dental injuries, such as cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth. It also protects against lacerations to the cheeks, lips, and tongue and can even help prevent more severe injuries like jaw fractures and concussions by reducing the force transmitted from a blow to the jaw.

Levels of Protection

Mouthguards come in three main varieties, offering different levels of protection and comfort:

  1. Stock Mouthguards: The most accessible and affordable option, these pre-formed guards can be bought at most sporting goods stores. They provide basic protection but have a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not suit everyone.
  2. Boil and Bite Mouthguards: A step up in terms of fit and protection. These are softened in boiling water and then molded around the teeth and gums by biting down, offering a more personalized fit.
  3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: The gold standard in mouth protection. Made by dental professionals from impressions of your teeth, they provide the best fit, comfort, and protection. While more expensive, the investment significantly outweighs the cost of potential dental repairs.

Customization and Versatility

One of the most appealing aspects of mouthguards, especially custom-fitted ones, is their versatility and customization. They can be tailored not just to fit the unique contours of your mouth but also to suit the specific demands of different sports. Furthermore, they can accommodate braces and other dental appliances, and can even be personalized with team colors and logos.

mouthguards 

OPRO mouthguards ( amazon available)

Conclusion

The adage “prevention is better than cure” rings especially true in sports. Investing in a mouthguard is investing in your health, safety, and peace of mind. Whether you’re an amateur enjoying a weekend game or a competitive athlete, the right mouthguard is your best defense against dental injuries. Remember, a smile is worth protecting, no matter your age or the level of competition.

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Your Complete Guide to Denture Care
02
Dec
2023

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

At Your Perfect Smile Dental & Implant Clinic, we understand the importance of getting dentures and caring for them to ensure a long-lasting, confident smile. Whether you’re new to dentures or looking for ways to improve your denture-wearing experience, this comprehensive guide is here to help you adjust comfortably and maintain the longevity of your dentures.

Denture Care:

Getting used to dentures can take time, but you’ll smile confidently with the right care and patience. Here are some essential denture care tips:

  1. Start Slowly: Start by eating softer foods and gradually introducing harder textures as you become more accustomed to your dentures.
  2. Practice Speaking: Don’t be discouraged if you experience speech challenges initially. Reading aloud or having conversations can help improve your speech with dentures.
  3. Proper Cleaning: Maintain good oral hygiene by cleaning your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap. Remember to remove them at night to give your gums a break.
  4. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule follow-up appointments with us as recommended. We can ensure your dentures continue to fit perfectly and make any necessary adjustments.
  5. Adhesive Use: Discuss denture adhesives with our team if necessary. We can provide guidance on their proper use.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drinking daily water can help prevent dry mouth and discomfort.
  7. Be Patient: Adjusting to dentures takes time, and it’s normal to experience some initial discomfort. If you have concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

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Enhance Your Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry!

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20
Sep
2023

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

Are you ready to transform your smile and boost your confidence? Cosmetic dentistry can work wonders, giving you that perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of. Let’s explore some popular cosmetic dental procedures that can help you achieve your smile goals.

  1. #TeethWhitening: Brighten your smile by removing stains and discolouration. Professional teeth whitening can make your teeth several shades lighter, leaving you with a dazzling smile.
  2. #PorcelainVeneers: Veneers are like magic for your teeth. They can conceal imperfections, such as chips, gaps, and misalignment, providing you with a flawless smile.
  3. #DentalImplants: Missing teeth? Dental implants are a natural-looking and long-lasting solution. They blend seamlessly with your existing teeth and restore your smile’s functionality.
  4. #CosmeticBonding: Quick and effective, cosmetic bonding can repair minor issues like chips and small gaps. It’s a budget-friendly option to improve your smile.
  5. #InvisibleBraces: Say goodbye to traditional braces! Invisible braces, also known as aligners, are nearly invisible and can straighten your teeth comfortably and discreetly.
  6. #SmileMakeover: Combine multiple cosmetic procedures to create a comprehensive smile makeover tailored to your needs and desires.

Remember, each person’s smile is unique, so consult with a cosmetic dentist to determine the best treatment plan for you. Don’t wait any longer to achieve the smile of your dreams!

Ready to take the first step? Contact Your Perfect Smile Dental & Implant Clinic today to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you achieve the smile you deserve! 😄💫

#CosmeticDentistry #SmileTransformation #PerfectSmile #DentalCare #ConfidenceBoost #SmileGoals #DentalHealth #YourPerfectSmile

My year at Your Perfect Smile Dental Clinic
24
Aug
2017

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

For this blog we have asked one of our Dental Nurses Alice Gatenby to take us through her experience working at Your Perfect Smile Dental Clinic.

Here is what she says…

“Since January 2016, I have been a part of wonderful team at Your Perfect Smile Dental Clinic. Last June I began studying towards my SVQ in dental nursing. I attended College twice a month at the Centre for Health Science in Inverness. Attending College was great. It allowed me to gain a better understanding of why we, the nurses, and the dentists do the things we do and why. It really just made everything fall into place. (more…)

Philips Sonicare Diamond Clean Smart

Your Perfect Smile , Cosmetic dentistry Inverness
10
Aug
2017

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

We all keep asking the same question: Which electric toothbrush is the best? Oral B, Philips, Colgate …… So today I would like to concentrate on one of the newest additions to electric toothbrushes world Philips Sonicare Diamond Clean Smart .

You may ask what so different about it ? Lets see what manufacturer promises under a name of  “Complete system for a healthier mouth”

 Five modes which cover a range of brushing needs:

  • Clean mode for exceptional daily cleaning,
  • White+  for removing stains,
  • Deep Clean+ for invigorating deep clean,
  • Gum Health for gentle yet effective clean for gums,
  • Tongue Care for the perfectly cleaned tongue and fresh breath                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Three intensities allow you to choose between a higher setting to boost your clean and a lower one for more sensitive mouth.

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Quick Straight Teeth
12
Jul
2017

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

This summer we have decided to take teeth straightening to the whole new level with Quick Straight Teeth System.

It is the newest system we offer with superior quality and esthetics and what might be even more important for some of you with a NEW super price!

Only £2000 for a single arch and only £2400 for top and bottom teeth. Braces prices have never been so GOOD! (more…)

Warranty on dental treatment
02
Oct
2016

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

Did you ever wonder about warranty on dental treatment? Did you ask you dentist how long guarantee you get on your dental work, filling, crown, bridge, implant?

What did you expect to hear ? 5 years, 10 year, lifetime?

Were you surprised that the answer was actually different then what you expected.

So, let’s try to explain why that is a case.

When it comes to dental restorations of any kind the most important thing to understand is that we are dealing with very unpredictable human body.

Your filling , crown or implant is made out of solid material which most of the times will stay intact for years but will your tooth , gum or bone be the same? The answer is simple – IT WILL NOT .

So, if your tooth is decayed, your gum is inflamed, bleeding, receding or bone is disappearing you need to expect that  your beautiful new filling, crown , bridge , or implant will be compromised too. And it’s not because it’s faulty but because whatever holds it in place is compromised.

Decay is caused but multiple factors but there is a simple prevention which is right in your hands, reduce sweeties and brush your teeth.

Bleeding gums are the symptoms of the gum disease and it is not a hereditary disease as some patients thinks.   So  you do not have it because your parents had it, You have it simply because your brushing is not as good as you would like to think.

Receding gums are not an accident either. They will be associated with grinding, clenching, malocclusion ( bad bite) or incorrect brushing technique most commonly brushing hard in horizontal way with hard toothbrush.

As for the bone related problems they can be caused by poor oral hygiene,  general health and diseases like osteoporosis, some medications or grinding and clenching.

 

So after reading that ….

Did you noticed that future of your restorations in actually in your hands? With that in mind why would you expect a guarantee to cover your mistakes, you biting on something what you should not, using teeth for what they are not design to do like package opening, or simply not brushing well enough?

 

If you simply take care of your teeth and gums you have to worry about guarantee. You will not need it  as it’s all in your hands.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The importance of your dental check-up
02
May
2016

Posted by:
Kerry Strachan

So you’ve not had a  ‘dental check-up’  in a while?
What’s actually the point in a check-up? It’s a waste of money, right?! WRONG!!!

Time flies, does’t it? Before you know it maybe 6 months, a year, maybe 2 years (gasp) have passed since you last had your teeth checked.
Maybe you’ve been trying to arrange a ‘check up’ only to be told the nearest appointment is months down the line.
Or maybe you think you don’t need one because you’re teeth are absolutely fine, you’ve had no toothache and what’s the point in wasting money for 2 minute appointment just to be told everything is fine, see you next time.

Well firstly these should not be 2 minute appointments, they are important and you do need them regularly…. here’s why. (more…)

Antibiotics for toothache

amoxy
13
Apr
2016

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

Using antibiotic for toothache has been an issue for a very long time. Recently published survey results show overprescribing antibiotics by GP for dental problems as many patients head on to GP surgery for help. Research clearly shows that over half of the patients who visited GP in last 10 years for dental problem instead of undergoing dental treatment chosen to use antibiotic often unnecessarily.  Fact is that most of dental problems cannot be comprehensively addressed by GP and they do not have instruments, knowledge, practice and experience to do so.

Whatever reasons are behind that the bottom line is they will not help so you are very likely going to end up in bigger trouble that you already are.

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