Cities have been adjusting the fluoride levels in water since 1964. Since that time, fluoridation has dramatically improved the oral health of tens of millions of Americans. Community water fluoridation is the single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay, but you may not be drinking as much fluoridated water as you may think. If bottled or home-purified water is your main source for drinking water, you may be missing out on this extremely safe and effective mineral that prevents tooth decay.

Of course, using toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Approval is a good source of fluoride, but optimal levels of absorption can only be achieved if you use it as directed: brushing twice a day for two to three minutes each time.

At our office, you can receive professionally applied topical fluoride during your next dental checkup. This is extremely important for people who are at high risk for tooth decay, including children, people with less than perfect oral hygiene, people undergoing orthodontic treatment, and people with weakened enamel due to lifestyle choices or genetic factors. If you have any questions regarding fluoride, please feel free to ask us at the office. We want you to have the healthiest smile possible.

CHICAGO, April 2, 2012 – Warm weather brings thoughts of long bike rides, rollerblading and skateboarding. Just as you would suit up in your helmet, kneepads and wrist guards, don’t forget your mouthguard too, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

“One fall or collision with a fellow biker could damage your smile, so it’s better to be safe than sorry,” said Dr. Alice Boghosian, ADA Consumer Advisor spokesperson and a practicing dentist in the Chicago area. “Mouthguards aren’t just for football players or hockey players. Mouthguards should be worn while participating in any sport that involves the risk of injury, such as basketball, volleyball or gymnastics. Why risk damaging your gums or losing a tooth?”

National Facial Protection Month in April offers dental professionals the opportunity to encourage children and adults to use protective mouthguards during sports and certain recreational activities such as rollerblading and skateboarding.

Mouthguards, which typically cover the upper teeth, can cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth, according to the ADA. A properly fitted mouthguard will stay in place and be easy for users to talk and breathe while wearing.

There are three types of mouthguards:
• Stock mouthguards are inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. Unfortunately, they often do not fit very well. They can be bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
• Boil and bite mouthguards are available at many sporting goods stores, and offer a better fit than stock mouthguards. They should be softened in water, then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of the mouth. Follow the directions carefully to avoid a poor fit.
• Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by a dentist in a dental office or a dental laboratory based on a dentist’s instructions. An impression is taken of the teeth and a mouthguard is created using the model. Custom-fitted mouthguards are more expensive than the other versions, but because they are customized they can offer a better fit than anything you can buy off the shelf.

“Choose the mouthguard that feels comfortable in your mouth. If you don’t like the way it feels, you won’t wear it,” said Dr. Boghosian. “If you aren’t sure what type of mouthguard to buy, just ask your dentist.”

To learn more about mouthguards, please visit ADA.org.