Congratulations! You have been brushing and flossing twice a day and keeping up with regular dentist appointments. Your hard work is certainly paying off, because your smile looks fantastic! You might think you’re all done with your dental homecare routine, but there are a few more things your dentist might recommend, like specialized dental appliances that are geared to your lifestyle. Be sure to take that recommendation seriously, because there are some dental appliances you just can’t live without.
Mouth Guard
If you participate in any contact sports, a mouth guard could be your best friend one day. Designed to protect your teeth and gums from damage after impact, this simple and inexpensive appliance could be the only thing standing between you and a hefty dental bill. You may not like wearing it, but when you consider that the cost to replace a seriously damaged or missing tooth can be in excess of $1000, you’ll kick yourself for not wearing one, if you haven’t already been kicked by someone else!
Another specialized type of mouth guard your dentist may recommend is one to protect your teeth from the damage brought on by grinding. Night grinding, or bruxism, is a common condition (especially if you’re under stress) and you might not even know you’re doing it. Symptoms can include a stiff neck and headaches, and of course the telltale wear on the molars that your dentist will be sure to tell you about! There is no cure for bruxism, but you can protect your teeth from further damage.
Invisalign
Invisalign offers the beautiful straightening properties of braces, without the wires. Serving as an invisible shield over your teeth, this must-have dental appliance gives you the straight teeth you have always wanted, while being easily removed to allow for brushing and flossing, and the occasional indulgence in caramel and movie theatre popcorn.
To find out what dental appliances can do to protect or beautify your teeth, make sure you talk to Dr. Hallett at your next appointment. If you don’t already have one booked, call us today!
