Mouth Guards

Mouth Guards

A mouth guard is a protective device for the mouth that covers the teeth and sometimes the gums. Mouth guards are often used to protect the teeth from injury during sports, and from teeth grinding.

When a child participates in a sporting or recreational activity, injuries can occur. A mouth guard is an important piece of protective equipment. Coaches and team members know that mouth guards help to cushion the blow that would otherwise cause injury to the teeth, lips, face, and sometimes even jaw fractures.

Another reason a child would need to wear a mouth guard is if he or she suffered from what is known as bruxism. Bruxism is the medical term for clinching of the jaw or grinding of the teeth. Most of the time, bruxism occurs while a child is sleeping or when he or she is under stress. Bruxism is common among children, but most will outgrow it. Wearing a mouth guard (night guard) can help to minimize the effects of bruxism.

 

 

There are three different types of mouth guards:

1.)    Stock mouth protectors are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be found at most drug stores or sporting goods stores. Not much can be done to adjust their fit, and some say they are bulky.

 

Stock mouth protector

 

2.)     Boil and bite mouth protectors can also be bought at most drug stores or sporting goods stores. This type of mouth guard may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. The boil and bite mouth protector is made to be placed in hot water to soften, then placed in the mouth to be shaped around the teeth, gums and lips using tongue and finger pressure.

 

Boil and bite mouth protector

 

3.)    Custom fitted mouth protectors are made in a dental laboratory to specifically fit an individual’s mouth.  The first step in this process is for a dental office to take an impression of the individual’s mouth/teeth. Next a model is made, and a mouth guard is molded over the model using special material. Often times, the custom fitted mouth protector provides the most comfort and protection.  

 

Custom fit mouth protector

 

If you have any questions about mouth guards or their uses, please contact our office at 333-kids.

Dental Sealants

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are placed to prevent tooth decay. A dental sealant is a thin material that is painted on the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars and premolars (back teeth), where decay occurs most often.  The sealant quickly bonds into the pits and fissures (depressions and grooves) of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.

Pits and fissures are often times difficult to keep clean because a toothbrush bristle cannot reach into them. The sealant acting as a protective shield over pits and fissures helps keep the plaque and food out, thus decreasing the chances of decay.

Placing a dental sealant is quick, and there is no discomfort. First, the dentist or assistant conditions the chewing surface to help the sealant adhere to the tooth. Next they apply the sealant to the enamel. As long as the sealant remains intact, it will help protect the tooth from decay. Sealants normally hold up well and can last for years.

Flossing & Fluoride in Children

Flossing & Fluoride in Children

Why Floss?

Flossing removes plaque between teeth in areas where a toothbrush can’t reach.  Flossing once a day is an important part of overall oral hygiene.  As soon as a child’s teeth start to touch, it’s time to start flossing.  Due to the skill required, parents often need to assist or supervise a child’s flossing. 

Flossing technique

Conventional flossing requires a length of approximately 18 inches.  The floss is wound around the middle fingers of both hands.  The index and middle fingers can then be used to guide the floss between teeth.  The floss is curved into a C-shape and slid against the sides of each tooth.

Another flossing option is available using Plackers™.  By offering an easy grasp handle, Plackers can serve as a great way for younger kids to develop flossing habits on their own.  The floss is guided between the teeth’s contacts as with the conventional method.  At cleaning visits we demonstrate the different flossing techniques first hand.  A Plackers pack is also given to kids to use at home.      

Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in water sources.  Fluoride in its topical form can prevent cavities as well as repair the early stages of tooth decay.  Fluoride works by strengthening enamel and making it more resistant to the acid that causes tooth decay.  Fluoride is an ingredient in most toothpastes, some mouth rinses, and in the protective varnish applied at the dental office. 

The next blog will discuss dental sealants and mouth protectors.  Please contact our office with any questions and for your free infant dental kit.  We are located in Bloomington near the College Mall, next to Goodwill. 

-Dr. Matt

Matthew L. Rasche, DDS, MSD

Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

Southern Indiana Pediatric Dentistry

www.SIPediatricDentistry.com

(812) 333-KIDS (5437)

Diets & Toothbrushing for Children

Optimal Diets for Infants

Healthy nutrition for kids starts early.  In accordance with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines, breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months of life has been shown to have many beneficial effects for children.  The AAP recommendation is for continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced for 1 yr or longer as mutually desired by mother and infant.  http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/129/3/e827.full#content-block

                     

Optimal Diets for Preschoolers and Beyond

It’s important to help establish good eating habits early for kids.  Eating a variety of foods from the five major food groups is a great way to ensure optimal nutrition:

1) Fruits

2) Vegetables

3) Grains, breads, cereals

4) Milk, cheese, yogurt

5) Meat, poultry, fish and/or alternatives such as beans, peas, and nuts

   

                                

 Toothbrushing for Infants & Children

Oral hygiene starts as early as a child is born.  Even before teeth are present, it is beneficial to wipe a child’s gums with a wet washcloth after every feeding.  As teeth erupt it is best to switch to a soft bristle toothbrush.  Brushing or wiping a child’s teeth before naps and bedtime is especially important.   

Parents will likely need to assist children with brushing and flossing till children are 6+ years old.  One approach is to allow children the opportunity to brush their teeth first.  A parent can then do a thorough follow-up brushing.  Establishing brushing habits early can lead to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Using an appropriate child-sized toothbrush can improve toothbrushing success.  There are many toothbrush colors and styles available.  As the old dental adage goes, “the best toothbrush is the one that will be used” J

When assisting children with brushing, it may be beneficial to stand behind the child.  Optimal brushing technique removes the tooth film (plaque) from inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of teeth.  Brushing the tongue can also be used to improve a child’s breath.

The next blog will discuss flossing and fluoride.  Please contact our office with any questions and for your free infant dental kit.  We are located in Bloomington near the College Mall, next to Goodwill. 

-Dr. Matt

Matthew L. Rasche  DDS, MSD

Certified, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Southern Indiana Pediatric Dentistry

www.SIPediatricDentistry.com

(812) 333-KIDS (5437)