Your dentist can provide a mouth guard for you to wear during sports and exercise. This important piece of safety equipment protects your teeth and gums from injuries that can occur during play. Remember that in order to do its job properly, your mouth guard must be kept in good shape.

Keep Your Mouth Guard Clean
Keeping your mouth guard clean is essential to keeping it in good repair and keeping your mouth healthy. Ask your dentist about special care needs for your mouth guard.  Wash your mouth guard  using only cool water, as hot water may deform it and affect its fit. Soak the mouth guard for a few minutes in a mouthwash solution after each wear before you store it. Brush your teeth before putting in your mouth guard to prevent contaminating it with food or bacteria from your teeth.

Store Your Mouth Guard Safely
Storing your mouth guard in an approved container will keep it safe when it’s not in use. Ask your dentist about a hard case or purchase one in a store to protect your mouth guard. Never leave your mouth guard or its case in direct sunlight and avoid leaving it where children or pets might find it. Keep your mouth guard and case away from dirty or sweaty clothes, especially after a game or workout.

Get Your Mouth Guard Checked Regularly
Your dentist should inspect your mouth guard during each of your routine dental exams to ensure that it is in good condition and fits properly. Your dentist can also check to ensure that it is clean and free of buildup that could lead to infection or tooth decay. If you feel like your mouth guard doesn’t fit as well as it should, bring it to your dentist for an adjustment rather than trying to fix it yourself. Your dentist will know when it’s time to replace your mouth guard for effective protection.

For sports dentistry services and more, visit University Associates in Dentistry of Chicago. As the official dentist of the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team, we are dedicated to keeping all athletes’ mouths safe from harm. You can learn more about our dentistry practice when you call us at (312) 704-5511 or  click through our website . 

Preventing injuries during sports and play can preserve the health and beauty of your smile. These web resources provide more information about mouth guards and common mouth injuries to help you smile brightly for life:

• This article on Livestrong.com provides instructions on how to properly  clean your mouth guard  after each use to keep it in great condition.
• Mouth injuries frequently occur in children while they are playing or exploring. If your child sustains an injury, follow these care tips from WhatToExpect.com.
• What is a mouth guard and how does it protect your teeth ? You can find plenty of information about mouth guards on this page from KnowYourTeeth.com.
• What should you do in the event of a mouth injury? Colgate.com explains  how to handle dental emergencies .
• Oral injuries may involve damage to the teeth, lips, tongue, or other parts of the mouth. This page on EverydayHealth.com outlines some  common mouth injuries  you may encounter. 

University Associates in Dentistry  is the official dental team for the Chicago Blackhawks. Our general and cosmetic dentists are experts in the field of dental implant placement, sleep apnea treatment, and more. You can learn more about improving your dental health by calling (312) 704-5511 or by clicking through our blog. 

A mouth guard is a protective device worn during sports or sleep to prevent damage to the teeth. You can get a custom-fitted mouth guard from your dentist to ensure proper fit and function. Mouth guards not only minimize damage and injury to the teeth during sports, but also offer performance-enhancing benefits, as well.

Protection for Teeth and Gums
Athletes are particularly prone to a variety of dental injuries. Falls or blows to the face during high-impact sports or gymnastics can injure the teeth, gums, and jaws. Long-term tooth clenching or grinding during activities like running and weight lifting can result in worn tooth enamel that causes sensitivity or cosmetic issues. Individuals currently undergoing orthodontic treatment should also consider wearing a mouth guard during any sports activities to protect their braces and soft tissues from damage.

Enhanced Concentration and Breathing
The ancient Greeks, Romans, and Vikings all utilized leather straps or bits in the mouth to increase their abilities during sports and battle. Today, numerous studies have revealed that the use of a mouth guard can increase power during athletic performance and improve the body’s output. The act of biting down on a mouth guard promotes blood flow throughout the body for improved physical and mental performance. Additionally, certain types of mouth guards are also designed to position the jaws, teeth, and tongue comfortably during cardiovascular activity. Runners can increase their speed simply by breathing more efficiently and providing more oxygenated blood to their muscles.

University Associates In Dentistry  is here to help you find the perfect mouth guard for your dental health and athletic performance. As the team dentists of the Chicago Blackhawks, we have the experience in sports dentistry necessary to enhance your game while preserving your smile. Visit us on the web or call (312) 704-5511 to learn more information or to schedule your appointment with us.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes snoring and the cessation of breathing many times throughout the night. This happens when the tissues in the back of the throat block the airway, disrupting normal breathing and sleep.

This video addresses the issue of sleep apnea by talking with Shaquille O’Neal and his wife. She explains that his snoring at night tends to keep her awake. This is just one side effect of sleep apnea, watch the video to learn more about this condition and how it affects those around you and yourself.

At University Associates in Dentistry, we provide top-quality dental care to address sleep apnea and snoring. Find out more about how we can meet all of your  dental care needs in Chicago  by calling (312) 704-5511 today. 

As an athlete, maintaining your body’s performance is one of your top priorities. However, you may not realize that dental problems can affect your overall health and fitness. Working with your dentist to prevent or address dental issues will help you maintain your health and enhance your athletic performance.

How Oral Health Affects Athletic Performance
Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and the health of your teeth and gums can affect your overall wellbeing. If left untreated, dental infections can spread to other parts of the body, affecting organ function and physical performance. Dental pain caused by tooth grinding, contact with chlorinated water, or certain motions of the face and neck can also affect your ability to fully concentrate during sports.

Why Dental Protection is Important
Sporting activities present hazards to the teeth, gums, and tongue that everyday activities do not. As a result, athletes need to consider dental protection to prevent or minimize facial injuries. Make sure you wear the proper protective equipment for your activity, including a faceplate or mouth guard. The use of a mouth guard may also improve athletic performance by eliminating pain and allowing the jaw to clench safely, enhancing concentration without causing dental damage.

How Your Dentist Can Help
Swimmers, in particular, may experience dental problems such as tooth sensitivity or discoloration due to long hours spent in the pool. Increasing the frequency of dental cleanings can address these issues and promote a bright, healthy smile. No matter what activity you participate in, you should bring up any pain or concerns with your dentist so that problems can be treated early. Your dentist can provide you with a  custom-fitted mouth guard  to protect your teeth. If you do injure a tooth, remain calm and visit your dentist immediately for prompt care.

As the team dentists, University Associates in Dentistry is the dental care provider of the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team. Our dentists understand athletes’ unique dental needs and will address all aspects of your dental care for a dazzling smile on and off the field. Call us at (312) 704-5511 or  visit our website  to find out how you can become our newest patient. 

When you look after your oral health, you can both protect your teeth from tooth decay and gum disease and ensure that you have a more beautiful and longer lasting smile. These articles explain how to take care of your teeth and what measures can be taken to correct dental problems.

• Your toothpaste can directly impact the health of your teeth and the look of your smile. WebMD.com breaks down how to pick out the right toothpaste  for you.
• You might have the right toothpaste, but do you know how to properly use it? MouthHealthy.org explains the correct way to brush your teeth .
• Don’t be discouraged by tooth loss. MedicineNet.com details how  dental implants  can improve your smile and safeguard your oral health.
• Tooth loss often results from advanced gum disease . The U.S. National Library of Medicine gives readers a comprehensive overview of this condition.
• This article from EverydayHealth.com offers additional information about toothpaste .

University Associates in Dentistry provides a wide range of dental services for those in the Chicago region. Our friendly and comfortable office offers both restorative and cosmetic dentistry options to suit your individual dental needs. Call (312) 704-5511 or  visit our website  for more information.

Tooth loss is a common occurrence for many people. Whether due to injury or disease, losing your teeth can be a traumatic experience that changes both your look and lifestyle habits. However, tooth loss need not be a permanent problem. A restorative dentist can fix your smile with dental implants . Safe and reliable, dental implants have improved the oral health and cosmetic appearance of countless dental patients.

What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are comprised of several high-grade devices that together form an artificial tooth. The first component is a titanium post that is implanted into the jawbone. The next part of the dental implant is the abutment, which attaches to the titanium post. The final feature of a dental implant is the crown. The crown is a porcelain device that affixes to the abutment and provides the appearance of a natural tooth .

Why are Dental Implants Necessary After Tooth Loss?
Dental implants can greatly improve the aesthetic look of your smile, but they also provide several important benefits for your overall dental health. Tooth loss can cause other oral health issues, including the deterioration of bone and gum tissue. This can leave your remaining natural teeth vulnerable to gum disease and loosening. Tooth loss can also impact your eating and speaking abilities.

What Does the Dental Implant Process Entail?
The dental implant process begins with a consultation with a restorative dentistry specialist. Together, you will determine your dental implant needs. Once a treatment plan has been formulated, you will undergo the first step of the surgical process, which is the implanting of one or more titanium posts. Once your posts are firmly rooted into your jawbone, the dental implant process is completed with the addition of the abutments and crowns. In a matter of just a few weeks, dental implants can completely transform your health and appearance.

University Associates in Dentistry offers the most advanced dental implant services for patients in the Chicago area. Our office provides the innovative All-on-4 treatment plan for eligible candidates. To  find out more  about this service or our other restorative dentistry options, call (312) 704-5511.

Did you know that having straighter teeth could help improve your oral health ? This video demonstrates how correcting misalignments with Invisalign treatment can prevent future oral health issues.

Crooked teeth are considered only a cosmetic problem by many, but they can also have serious effects on your dental health. Misalignments prevent you from being able to reach obstructed areas of the teeth and gums. Without access to these regions, you cannot clean them properly. As a result, tooth decay and gum disease become growing concerns. Some people may also face a lifetime of jaw pain and headaches from crooked teeth, as they can produce irregular chewing practices. Invisalign offers a simple treatment for misaligned teeth.

University Associates in Dentistry offer Invisalign treatment for Chicago-area patients. To set up an appointment to discuss your  cosmetic dentistry  needs, call (312) 704-5511.

Most people know that brushing their teeth at least twice a day is essential for maintaining good dental health. Fewer people realize that their selection of toothpaste can greatly enhance their oral hygiene routine. Cosmetic dentistry experts stress that not all toothpastes are equal, which is why you should take some time to consider the kind of toothpaste that’s right for you. The following facts can help you choose the optimal toothpaste for your dental health needs and preferences.

The Benefits of Toothpaste
On the surface,  the reason why toothpaste is important  may seem obvious. Yes, it helps to clean your teeth. However, toothpaste can provide several added benefits. For one, fluoride-fortified toothpastes can greatly decrease your risk of tooth decay. Second, specially formulated tartar-control toothpastes can help to reduce the dangers of gum disease, which is a problem that can lead to tooth loss. When selecting toothpaste, be sure to choose one that includes these important advantages.

The Types of Toothpaste
Numerous brands of toothpaste are available that can cater to your oral hygiene preferences. Some people place a priority on the feel of toothpaste on their teeth. As a result, toothpastes now come as pastes, gels, or powders to suit your individual needs. You can also purchase toothpaste in a myriad of flavors. Peppermint and spearmint are two more popular flavors of toothpaste, but you can also select fruity or cinnamon flavors, as well.

The Special Options in Toothpaste
Toothpaste now comes with added components to address certain dental concerns. For instance, if your teeth have become dulled or discolored, you can buy a teeth whitening toothpaste to brighten your smile. If you are sensitive to hot or cold sensations, you might want specialty toothpaste created to minimize your discomfort. When it comes to toothpaste, you have a wealth of options to make your dental hygiene routine as pleasant and beneficial as possible.

Do you have more questions about how to pick the ideal toothpaste for your needs? If so, call  University Associates in Dentistry  at (312) 704-5511. Our Chicago-area practice specializes in a wide variety of dental services, including restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. 

Maintaining your oral health does not have to be difficult. Check out these great links for more information on taking proper care of your mouth guard and the uses and benefits of laser dentistry. Give University Associates in Dentistry in Chicago a call at (312) 704-5511 for more information on our cosmetic and restorative dentistry services.

• Explore this article from the American Dental Association for tips on caring for and cleaning your mouth guard .
• How can you take care of your sports mouth guard ? Find out with this article from WebMD.com.
• This article from the Academy of Laser Dentistry provides an overview of the uses of lasers in dental procedures .
• Should you stick with a  manual toothbrush  or upgrade to an electric device? Get the answers to your toothbrush questions with this EverydayHealth.com article.
• Make sure you know how to properly brush your teeth by checking out these tips from the American Dental Hygienists’ Association.