Mouth guards, also called mouth protectors, 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. Knowing how to prevent injuries like these is especially important if you participate in organized sports or other recreational activities. Ask Dr. Schumm to recommend the right sports guard for your activity.
- Intense clenching of teeth
- Flattened, worn down enamel and chipped teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Pain and tightness in the jaws and its muscles
- Earaches
- Headaches
- Facial pains
If you have any of these symptoms, Dr. Schumm can suggest a night guard to help alleviate your pain and prevent future issues with your teeth.
Orthodontic Appliances
The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy bite—straight teeth that properly meet opposing teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to bite, chew and speak.
If your teeth are crowded, protrusive, spaced too far apart, meet in an abnormal way, or do not meet at all, correction may be recommended. Braces and aligners are the “appliances” orthodontists most commonly use to guide your teeth into their proper positions. Retainers preserve and stabilize the results of your orthodontic treatment. Dr. Schumm can help mitigate the need for extensive orthodontics with interceptive orthodontic space maintainers at an early age. Call him for an appointment to discuss your options.