Pediatric in Parma, OH
Dental Sealants
Sealants are an excellent way to protect your back teeth (molars) from tooth decay and cavities. Molars are especially vulnerable to cavities because they are used in the chewing process and are harder to reach and clean. The first molars typically come in around the age of 5 to 7, and the second set usually emerges between ages 11 and 14. It is recommended to place sealants on these teeth as soon as they erupt to ensure they are protected from the beginning.
The process of applying a sealant begins with the application of an adhesive to the tooth. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth as a liquid. The liquid hardens to form a barrier that protects the tooth from plaque, food particles, and bacteria. Sealants are durable and typically last for about 10 years, though they can be reapplied if necessary to continue providing protection.
Mouth Guards
Mouth guards are an essential piece of equipment in contact sports.
Wearing a mouth guard helps prevent against structural damage to your teeth and jaw and also helps prevent injuries such as lacerations to your cheeks, tongue, and lips. Mouth guards have also been shown to help decrease the risk of concussions.
Mouth guards are available in most any sporting goods store, but you should be careful when purchasing a mouth guard.
Generic mouth guards, while helpful, do not offer the highest level of protection. They are often uncomfortable and ill-fitting, which can make them difficult to wear. These types of mouth guards are typically used by athletes of all ages who participate in sports such as:
- Football
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Wrestling
- Basketball
- Baseball/Softball
- Soccer
- Or any sport where contact is a possibility
For the highest level of comfort and protection, it is highly recommended to visit your dentist for a custom mouth guard fitting. A custom mouth guard is specifically designed to provide optimal protection for your mouth. It is made from thin, hardened plastic that is tailored to your individual mouth shape. The thinness of the custom mouth guard ensures that you can breathe easily and communicate effectively—important for athletes like quarterbacks calling out signals.
Visit your dentist today for a custom mouth guard and protect your teeth while maintaining your peak performance on the field, court, or rink.