Sports Appliances

With the active nature of our children, the importance of mouthguards cannot be overstated. Regardless of contact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry strongly recommends mouthguards. Some sporting organizations are even making requirements. Mouthguards help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue, face or jaw. They typically cover the upper teeth and are a great way to protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining. Mouthguards save both the aesthetic look and physical health of a smile for as little as ten dollars. Mouthguards can be purchased in a one sized fits all make at a drugstore, a boil and bite pliable style at sporting goods stores, or in a customizable fit from Dr. Appel. These may be even more necessary for our braces-wearing patients. You wear equipment all over your body; don’t forget about your teeth!

Sleep Appliances

Sleep related problems can actually be linked to a need for dental action. Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. A custom-fit appliance can improve your sleep, restore your alertness and revitalize your health. Worn only while sleeping, the sleep appliance places the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. More than 100 types of sleep appliances have received FDA clearance and many are covered by medical insurance plans. Dr. Appel will advise you on your best option. Sleep appliances are customized using digital or physical impressions of your teeth. These models are sent to a lab where the appliance is constructed. Once it is ready, you will return to Dr. Appel’s Akron office for a fitting. The appliances can and should be adjusted over time to maximize effectiveness. If your appliance is used as suggested, it is likely that you will sleep better, have more energy and feel sharper throughout the day. Your sleep partner may also have fewer complaints!

Sealants

The grooves that exist throughout your back teeth are often extremely challenging, bordering on impossible, to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids are formed, breaking down the tooth enamel. The result of this breakdown is a cavity. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American children are formed this way. Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the irregularities in molars, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant treatment can be completed in one office visit. The sealant is applied in liquid plastic form. After exposed to blue spectrum natural light for a few seconds, the sealant hardens. It lasts for several years but needs to be checked during regular appointments.