Custom Sports Mouth Guards in Milford, CT

February 9, 2012 admin Archives, Mouthguards
Sports Guard

Custom Mouth Guard

If you are an athlete you probably know how easy it is to sustain an injury on the field or the ice. In fact, many sports injuries that occur each year take place in the mouth. The American Dental Association puts annual sports-related oral injuries in the 200,000 range. The truth is that many of these injuries could have been prevented with the use of a custom-made sports mouth guard. The misconception that mouthguards are uncomfortable, bulky, and impede breathing or speech has been debunked. While the disadvantages of sports mouth guards may hold true for stock mouth guards, customized guards like the ones we make at our Milford office are comfortable, effective, and allow athletes in every sport to breathe easy.

Sports mouth guards are designed to cushion the force of a blow to the jaw and oral region by dissipating the energy of a hit or fall. This cushioning effect greatly decreases the incidence of oral injury such as tooth loss or damage. Additionally, they have been shown to decrease the incidence of concussions because the lower jaw is not forced back into the base of the skull. They protect the teeth and the soft tissues of the mouth by preventing the jaws from being brought together forcefully. Other benefits of sports mouth guards include preventing the onset of ongoing dental problems that generate dental costs in the thousands.

Don’t be one of the 40% of athletes who sustain a dental injury this year. Get a custom-made sports mouth guard that protects your teeth from damage while helping you to prevent harmful and season-ending concussions. These mouth guards are superior in every way to the stock or boil mouthguards that you see at sporting goods stores. Sports mouth guards customized by Dr. Kostrzewski are fabricated over a dental model using vacuum formed thermoplastic material and are recommended by The Academy for Sports Dentistry.

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Milford, CT Dentist Explains Dentures & Alternatives

January 11, 2012 admin Archives, Dental Implants, Dentures, Restorative Dentistry
Dentures

Dentures & Alternatives

Dr. Walter Kostrzewski of Comfortable Care Dentistry is an experienced dentist who can help you to restore your smile if you suffer from missing teeth. We offer dentures to our patients who are missing teeth in the form of complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are for patients who are missing all of their teeth and partials are for patients who are only missing some teeth. We can place dentures after irreparable teeth have been removed (tooth extraction) and the gum tissue has healed. This process usually takes about three to four months and a temporary denture can be made while your gums heal.

Are Dentures Covered by Dental Insurance?

Because dentures are a restorative dentistry procedure they are generally covered by dental insurance. You will have to contact your individual insurance provider to see the specific costs they will cover. We recommend you do this before you elect to get dentures placed so that you are not surprised by any miscellaneous costs.

Can I Continue to Eat Whatever Foods I Like?

The short of the answer to this question is no. Dentures wearers are advised to avoid certain foods such as foods that are extremely sticky or hard. Chewing gum, sharp-edged bones, and toothpicks are all items denture-wearers should avoid.

Denture Alternatives

Dental implants are quickly becoming the most popular alternative to dentures because they most closely replace missing teeth. Dr. Kostrzewski is trained to place dental implants in Connecticut and can advise you if you are eligible for this type of treatment. The advantages to dental implants are that they form a permanent bond to your jaw bone through a process called osseointegration and the dental crowns that are custom-made for your teeth look and feel completely natural. The downside to dental implants is that they are more expensive than dentures and may not be available to all patients.

To learn more about dentures, dental implants, or how to replace your missing teeth contact our Milford, CT office today.

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Why Dental Implants Help Maintain Facial Structure From Lost Teeth

November 30, 2011 admin Archives, Dental Implants, Featured Articles, Restorative Dentistry
Sagging Facial Appearance

Sagging face from tooth loss

Many dental patients are aware of some of the health issues that can arise from the loss of teeth including impaired speech, loss of ability to chew, and a decrease in nutrition. But an important factor that Comfortable Care Dentistry wants to bring attention to regarding tooth loss is the deterioration of bone where the teeth once lied. Although the appearance of a lost tooth can have significant psychological and social consequences it is the bone that supports the teeth that can have serious functional, health, and aesthetic affects that needs to be addressed quickly.

When a tooth is lost the lack of stimulation in the alveolar bone causes it to diminish, resulting in more future health and social issues. Within the first year of tooth loss the bone can decrease 25% in width and up to four millimeters in height in the next few years. This can result in the loss of more teeth, the impairment of the ability to chew and speak, the loss of function, and results in a more aged look as the aesthetics of the face can change as well.

Teeth are usually lost due to old age, trauma, or poor dental care that causes them to decay. The longer a patient waits to take measures to replace the tooth, the more of a chance they have at suffering the consequences associated with bone loss. There are several options to replace missing teeth including dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants. The most common method of replacing teeth was the fixed partial denture, or fixed bridge. A fixed bridge is attached to the two surrounding healthy teeth and a prosthesis is placed in the middle to replace the missing tooth. Current research has shown that although the fixed bridge may help to replace a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay, root canal problems, and gum disease.

The dental implant is now the most highly recommended tooth replacement procedure as it is serves to replace missing teeth and avoids debilitating bone loss. The dental implant replaces the tooth’s root by a process called osseointegration where the implant fuses with the jawbone and creates a restoration that is natural looking and feeling.

If you have recently lost a tooth or would like to schedule a consultation with Milford’s Dental Implant Dentist, contact us today.

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Walter Kostrzewski, DMD & Comfortable Care Dentistry Making a Difference in Veterans Lives

November 9, 2011 admin Archives, Events, Featured Articles
veterans day

Happy Veteran's Day Troops!

Dr. K and the dental team at Comfortable Care Dentistry are working with the Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics (ACE) to help provide dental services to our troops. The charity titled “A Soldiers Smile” was kicked off this past weekend just in time for Veteran’s Day this Friday the 11th. The A Soldiers Smile events are slated to take place across the country in participating VA hospitals and at local dentist’s offices such as our Milford dentistry office. Dr. K and other select dentists have volunteered their time, experience and goodwill so that our less than fortunate troops can get the dental care they deserve.

The charity is also backed by Montel Williams, the award winning talk show host who himself is a decorated military veteran. Montel has already begun to generate exposure for this event and has done some traveling as well as made appearances on national TV shows explaining the A Soldiers Smile events and charity. Dr. K will be providing cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures to select US troops and will help them to regain their oral health as well as self-confidence. We all know that a poor smile can affect our self-esteem and US soldiers who have served our countries deserve to have access to dental care that improves their lives.

Although this may come as a shock to many, a lot of or vets have difficulty getting proper dental care for their oral health problems. There are laws in place that have restrictions on providing health care for veterans based on their condition in or out of service and their income level. These laws can limit the health care that our vets should be granted and Dr. K and other dentists are helping to take action today.

Veteran’s Day is this Friday the 11th. Remember to thank a vet for their service to our country.

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Walter Kostrzewski, DMD Helps Support US Troops

October 26, 2011 admin Archives, Events

 

Halloween candy buy back program

Halloween Candy Buy Back

Dr. Walter Kostrzewski, or Dr. K as his patients know him is again supporting this year’s Halloween Candy Buy Back program which raises candy from the local community to donate to our troops who are in harm’s way. The event, slated to commence on Tuesday November 1st at 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm will allow kids to donate their Halloween candy in exchange for goody bags, a free dinner at Bertucci’s, Sundae House ice cream, a dental care kit and more.

Kids will walk away knowing that they have improved the lives of our troops and brought smiles to their faces. This year’s Halloween Candy Buy Back will be sending 60,000 care packages to our troops so that we can show our appreciation for their service to our country with a few treats. Last year’s program sent 125 tons of candy and other care products that were greatly appreciated by our US troops.

We are asking participants to separate chocolate candy from the rest of the candy so that we can ensure it gets to our troops un-melted. In addition to the candy we are sending over we hope to receive 100,000 toothbrush/toothpaste sets to include in the care packages. If you can help us reach this important goal it would be greatly appreciated. Additional items you may want to provide:

  • Commercially sealed Lip Balm, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, mouthwash
  • Beanie Babies/WebKinz or other small stuffed animals
  • Hand-Knit/Crochet Scarves and Hats
  • Socks (dark colors are best)
  • Small packages Beef Jerky
  • Energy/Protein Bars
  • Individual Packets of Hot Cereal
  • DVD’s / CD’s
  • Personal Letters of Appreciation

Dr. K and the Comfortable Care Dentistry staff will host the Halloween Candy Buy Back at their Milford, CT office located at 203 Cherry Street, zip code 06460. For more information contact them at 1-800-917-5269.

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Gapped Front Teeth

September 28, 2011 admin Invisalign, Restorative Dentistry
Gap Teeth

Gapped front teeth

Many Americans suffer from a gap or space in their front teeth that is caused by a fold of tissue that connects the gum to the lip. This is called the frenum and people with gapped teeth have large frenums. Sometimes the frenum can extend lower than usual and contribute to separation in the front teeth. People with large frenums often wonder if they can have the gap closed as their frenum muscle is preventing their front teeth from coming together. A large frenum does not prevent patients from having orthodontic treatment to close the space however the frenum will likely need to be removed in a frenectomy to prevent it from reopening.

Because every case is different it is important to be diagnosed by a dentist or orthodontist. There may be other factors that cause the spacing in the front teeth besides a large frenum such as:

  • A deep bite (overlap of upper and lower front teeth)
  • Tongue thrust (caused by involuntary tongue habit)
  • Tongue or finger sucking habits
  • Bite collapse
  • Foreign objects such as pencils or toothpicks between teeth
  • Missing teeth
  • Non-replacement of missing teeth

After a proper evaluation the dentist will be able to diagnose the reason for the spaced teeth and decide on which treatment plan will work for the patient. Sometimes the teeth can be closed with no more than a retainer or orthodontic treatment. Other times a frenectomy may be required to fix the gapped teeth so that they do not move apart again.

Most dentists prefer to make attempts to close the gap with less invasive methods rather than removing the frenum. This is because prior removal of the frenum can result in scar tissue than can prevent space closure. It can also be difficult to gauge how much muscle tissue needs to be taken away before the teeth are moved into the proper position. Before you make a decision to have a more advanced surgical procedure consult with your dentist first to see if your gap can be closed with more conservative treatments.

 

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Root Canal Pain Public Misconception

September 21, 2011 Walter Kostrzewski Restorative Dentistry
endodontics

Root canal pain common misconception?

How many times have you heard someone say “I’d rather have a root canal” than endure something else as if the pain for a root canal was amongst the worst treatments one could go through. Although the pain that is associated with the infection in the tooth can be painful the actual procedure is quite painless. To help break this common misconception about the excruciating pains supposedly experienced with a root canal we will discuss the procedure and use another figure of speech of why “it’s really not so bad.”

A root canal or endodontic treatment is the name of the procedure used to treat the inner area of a diseased tooth. The inner area of the tooth is made of pulp tissue which contains a few nerve fibers but mostly consists of tiny blood vessels that give it its vitality. The majority of our teeth lie below the gum line and this is the area that comprises the roots. Within the tooth’s roots there are hollow spaces or canals which contain the pulp tissue mentioned above. When this portion of the tooth becomes inflamed or diseased it can cause severe pain or become infected.

To help alleviate the pain associated with inflammation or infection root canal treatment is suggested to remove the inflamed or infected pulp. A dentist will cleanse the damaged area, enlarge it and sterilize it so that a complete tooth extraction is not necessary. After the procedure the emptied out tooth area can be filled with tooth-like materials that seal the tooth and help it prevent further bacterial infection. A dental crown may be placed over your tooth to restore its vitality.

With modern advancements in dentistry including sedation dentistry and anesthesia any pains that are associated with the treatment are prevented. Most patients experience very little to mild discomfort during the procedure and a day or two of post-operative discomfort. These options are much better than losing the tooth completely.

 

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Risks of Poor Oral Health

September 13, 2011 Walter Kostrzewski Dental Health
Poor dental health

Risks of Poor Oral Health

Visits to the dentist are recommended twice a year to help patients prevent the onset of oral health problems.  The goal of Comfortable Care Dentistry is to help patients become aware of the risks associated with avoiding proper oral health care and understand the importance of maintaining and preserving their oral health.  Below are some common problems that occur as a result of neglect.

Tooth Loss

Tooth loss occurs because the teeth have either suffered some sort of trauma or patients have allowed gum disease to rob them of their teeth.  Gum disease is a bacterial infection that occurs as a result of the accumulation of plaque that constantly forms on your teeth.  Periodic dental visits are required to remove the build-up of these harmful bacteria as good at-home dental care simply is not enough.  If you have lost teeth you can experience a change in your facial features, loss of the jaw bone where teeth once existed, lack of nutritional requirements and social embarrassment.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is cancer that forms in the mouth and can occur in the cheek, on the gums and on the roof of the mouth.  Although mostly linked to tobacco and smoking users, oral cancer is also linked to heavy alcohol use and poor oral hygiene.  As part of your routine check-up, Dr. K will examine your mouth for oral cancer and possible signs that you may be at risk for its development.  This is a serious diagnosis as one in four persons with oral cancer die because they did not catch the disease early enough.

Gum Disease

Gum disease goes beyond just putting yourself at risk for tooth loss and social embarrassment.  It can also lead to lead to heart disease, stroke, pre-term pregnancy, diabetes, respiratory disease and other health risks.  Some studies suggest that the bacterium that exists in your mouth enters your blood stream and can affect other areas of your body.  Gum disease can be avoided with proper dental care and routine visits to your dentist.  This will help to prevent, detect and treat gum disease before it results in affecting your overall oral health and leads to further complications.

 

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Advantage of Invisalign over Braces

September 8, 2011 Walter Kostrzewski Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign
Invisalign advantages over braces

Advantages of Invisalign over braces

Invisalign is a teeth-straightening product that our patients have come to ask for by name.  We offer the product because we feel it offers many advantages to traditional braces and allows our patients to maintain their mature image while they are having their teeth straightened.  Many patients want to know the differences between Invisalign and braces and the advantages of the treatment over the other orthodontic option.

Before we discuss the advantages of Invisalign over braces lets discuss the similarities between the two.  For starters, both treatments offer the same end result- a beautiful, aligned smile that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.  They both treat cases involving crowding, spacing, overbite, crossbite and underbite.  Invisalign and braces are about the same cost and take about the same time to treat misaligned teeth.

The advantages of Invisalign over braces are fairly lopsided for most patients who enjoy the convenience the product offers.  For example, where braces limit what you can eat Invisalign allows you to enjoy whatever foods you like.  Because you can remove the device any time you want you are free to eat and drink whatever you please.  Additionally the simple removal of the device allows for easier maintenance of oral hygiene where braces make it more difficult to clean and floss your teeth.  Perhaps beyond the invisible nature of the product the most beneficial aspect is that patients avoid the sharp metals and wires that comprise traditional braces.

Invisalign seems to offer many benefits over traditional braces and is a popular alternative to our patients here at Comfortable Care Dentistry.  Dr. Walter Kostrzewski will personally utilize his experience and training to formulate a treatment plan that has your teeth looking and functioning better than ever before.  Before you make the decision to get Invisalign Dr. K must first evaluate your candidacy.  Come in for an evaluation to see if you are eligible and to begin the process to transform your smile into one that is healthy and beautiful.

 

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Sports Dentistry Helps Prevent and Restore Injuries

August 30, 2011 Walter Kostrzewski Mouthguards
sports mouth guard

Sports Mouthguard

Sports dentistry is the treatment and prevention of athletic injuries that affect the oral and facial areas.  Many dental related injuries can be prevented with the proper use and maintenance of sports equipment and the utilization of properly fitted devices.  For athletes this means properly fitted mouthguards are an essential piece of their protective equipment.  Contact sports such as football, boxing, martial arts and hockey are all obvious sports where mouthguards are used.  But dentists suggest that other sports that are not considered contact sports such as basketball, bike riding, soccer, wrestling, racquetball and skateboarding also require properly fitted mouthguards.

According to the National Youth Sports Foundation for the Prevention of Athletic Injuries dental injuries are the most common type of injuries sustained during sports.  A knocked out tooth is much more expensive to fix than buying a custom mouthguard made as a preventative measure.  The treatment of oral injuries is also time consuming and can lead to hours of dental visits to restore teeth to their natural condition.

Sports dentists also recommend preseason screening and examinations to help prevent injuries.  This may include examinations of health histories, mandibular relationships, orthodontics, loose teeth, missing teeth, and the possible need for extractions such as wisdom teeth.  The type of mouth guard created will be dependent on many of these factors and help to preserve optimum dental health during the sports season.

CT Smiles offers custom made mouthguards that are comfortable and protective so that athletes can breathe correctly and speak while playing sports.  These types of mouthguards must be customized because athletes have differing needs for optimal protection.  Dr. K will evaluate each patient’s mouth and construct a mouthguard that is protective, comfortable, resilient, tear resistant, odorless, tasteless, and causes minimal interferences with speaking and breathing.  If you or your children are active athletes consider the benefits of a professionally designed mouthguard and the preventative damages it can save you.

 

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