If you play hockey, you wear shoulder pads. If you catch baseball, you wear a helmet. At a skate park, you wear a helmet. But, no matter what sport you play, the one thing you always need is a mouthguard. Here's why.
A mouth missing front teeth means you cannot eat some of the foods that you like; you probably won't smile much, and you might not speak very well.
If you are hit in the mouth with a hard object like a ball or an elbow or even get pushed to the ground, a mouthguard can cushion the blow.
A mouthguard is like a seatbelt for your mouth. It will prevent cuts to your lips, tongue and the inside of your cheeks. It cushions any blow to your mouth, which can help reduce damage from a concussion, and it will protect against getting a broken jaw. Wearing a mouthguard is less expensive than repairing a broken tooth, and, of course, it helps keep your teeth in your mouth.
You can buy a stock mouth protector at many stores. It is ready to wear, but it can be uncomfortable and bulky and make it difficult for you to breathe or talk.
A boil-and-bite mouthguard is also easy to find at many stores. Place it in hot water; let it cool for a few seconds, and then, bite down on it to shape it to your mouth. This is better than a stock mouthguard, but it can be difficult to fit correctly.
The best mouthguard is made by your dentist. We take an impression of your teeth. If you wear braces, we may recommend one for your lower teeth as well as your upper teeth. The impression is sent to a lab to make a mouthguard that is an exact fit for you. You might be able to request special colors or design. You will come back in a few days. We will make sure the mouthguard fits you well and give you a special case to keep it in to protect the mouthguard and make it easier to keep track of.
To care for your mouthguard, rinse it with water before and after wearing it; brush it with a soft toothbrush, and use toothpaste. You should occasionally wash it in mild dish soap. Do not leave it in the hot sun, and regularly check it for tears or damage.
A mouthguard is an important piece of equipment for any sport. It can keep you in the game for years to come.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
