Winter Activities and Dental Safety

Winter Activities and Dental Safety

Wintertime in Maine can feel like the longest of the four seasons, but luckily there are a variety of sports and recreational activities for adults and kids to choose from to keep busy during the colder months. Whether you are competing on a winter sports team or getting outside for some fun and fresh air, it is important to take precautions to keep yourself safe. This includes wearing protective gear when necessary and knowing what to do in the case of a dental injury. If you have any questions about how we can help you protect your smile this winter, feel free to talk to your team at Falmouth Dental Arts, as we are your partners in dental health. In the meantime, read more about winter activities and dental safety below.

Protective Gear

In addition to wearing a helmet to protect your head, wearing a mouthguard is your first line of defense against dental injuries. We support the American Dental Association’s recommendation that mouthguards be worn when participating in the following list of winter sports and activities, even if they are not required: 

  • Wrestling
  • Basketball
  • Ice Hockey
  • All Collision, Contact, and Combat Sports 
  • Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
  • Ice Skating
  • Sledding
Types of Mouthguards

Make sure to choose a mouthguard that is approved by the ADA and designed for your specific sport or activity. There are a few different types of mouthguards you can choose from:

  • Stock Mouthguards – Stock mouthguards come pre-formed and ready-to-wear in various sizes. Stock mouthguards tend to be inexpensive but do not offer a custom fit. 
  • Boil and Bite Mouthguards – These mouthguards are softened in hot water before wearing and are placed in your mouth to create an impression of your teeth and bite before they harden. 
  • Mouthguards for Braces – It is important to choose a mouthguard that is designed specifically for those who wear braces.

Have questions? Talk to us about selecting the mouthguard that is best for you. We are here to help!                                                                                  

Caring for Your Mouthguard

Store your mouthguards in a case to keep them protected from bacteria, pets, and loss. Clean them regularly with toothpaste, mild soap, or baking soda. Rinse thoroughly and dry before storing them in their case. Replace them as soon as they get torn, thin from wear, or no longer fit well.

What to Do if You’re Injured

If a dental injury does occur, call our office right away at 207.781.5900 to schedule an appointment. Our team of compassionate dental professionals will help you with a treatment plan and coordinate with your other health care professionals as needed.  If it is outside of our regular business hours, when you call our office line you will be given the option to get in touch with Dr. Brunacini or Dr. Karagiorgos. In the event of a head injury or any other type of serious injury, please contact your physician as soon as possible or go to your nearest emergency room.

 

Smile, It’s the New Year!  8 Dental Health Resolutions for 2022

Smile, It’s the New Year! 8 Dental Health Resolutions for 2022

The new year brings an excellent opportunity to update your health and wellness habits. At Falmouth Dental Arts we often talk about how part of your overall wellness is good oral health, so this year, why not commit to having the healthiest smile possible, starting with this list of dental health resolutions:

1) Get a Fresh Start with a New Toothbrush

Ideally, toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months, but the new year is also a great time to start fresh by replacing all the toothbrushes in your household. We recommend electric toothbrushes to our patients; they provide a superior clean and help keep your gums healthy. If you prefer a traditional toothbrush, look for one with soft or ultra-soft bristles. Choose a toothpaste that is ADA-approved and contains fluoride.

2) Brush Up on Your Technique

Are your brushing skills up to speed? Proper technique includes brushing gently for 2-3 minutes, twice a day, holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. Make sure to brush every surface of your teeth, both front and back. Our team of hygienists is always happy to demonstrate “best brushing techniques” so feel free to ask at your next appointment!

3) Add Flossing to Your Routine

If you are skipping the flossing step in your dental routine, this is the perfect time to make a positive change. Start with once a week and then build up to a daily flossing habit. Also, if you find that you often forget to floss at night, try a different time of day or set a reminder on your phone. Using water flossers or regular floss will help clean food and plaque from between your teeth, helping to keep your gums healthy.

4) Use a Mouthwash

Studies show that using mouthwash on a regular basis is beneficial to your mouth, teeth, and gums. Rinsing with mouthwash gets to the places that toothbrushes can’t, cleans your whole mouth (including your tongue), and freshens your breath! Our hygienists recommend Oxyfresh mouth rinse, an alcohol and dye free formula flavored with essential oils.

5) Drink More Water

Drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day is good for your entire body, and your teeth are no exception. Water is by far the healthiest beverage choice, and drinking a glass after every meal is a great way to rinse away bacteria and help prevent tooth decay.

6) Kick the Tobacco Habit

Ring in the new year by resolving to quit using tobacco products – both smoking and chewing. Tobacco use is linked to oral cancer, as well as tooth decay and gum problems. For help with quitting smoking, consult the Center for Disease Control’s Tips From Former Smokers or talk to our team for additional ideas and support.

7) Upgrade Your Smile

In keeping with a “new year, new you” theme, why not treat yourself to the smile you’ve always wanted with cosmetic dentistry? We offer teeth whitening, bonding, Invisalign, and more – just ask! If you have been delaying dental work, like fillings, crowns, or other repairs because you have maxed out your dental insurance plan, the new year usually resets your maximum benefits back to zero, meaning that your full allowance should now be available again. For any questions about your dental insurance coverage, feel free to give us a call at 207.781.5900 and we would be happy to look into this for you.

8) An Ounce of Prevention

Dr. Brunacini and Dr. Karagiorgos, in conjunction with our team of compassionate dental professionals, will help you to develop a hygiene schedule at home, as well as in our office. Routine hygiene visits that include digital x-rays and cleanings are the best way to address issues before they arise and to maintain your dental health in the new year and beyond!