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.