Dental Mouth Guards

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Exceptional Care for Every Tooth

Though a sports mouth guard can be purchased in a sporting goods store, the most effective dental guard comes from your dentist and is ultra-customized for a comfortable fit and maximum protection.

If you or your child plays any contact sport such as hockey, soccer, basketball, football, or many others, a custom teeth guard will act as a seatbelt for your teeth, gums, and jaw.  The benefits of using a teeth mouth guard include:

  • protection against cuts to lips, the tongue, and insides of cheeks
  • protection against possible concussion due to absorption of blows to the head
  • protection against a broken jaw
  • Costs less than repairing broken or knocked-out teeth

Another lesser known fact is that a dental guard can also make an athlete stronger and increase stamina – even in non-contact sports!  Here’s how: when you put your body through stress, it causes your jaws to clench.  In turn, this clenching puts pressure on the TM joints, which causes the brain to release cortisol, a stress hormone.  Excess levels of cortisol are known to increase fatigue and decrease metabolism and muscle-building.

A custom sports mouth guard counteracts clenching by helping the jaw to stay in a relaxed position.  A mouth guard draws the jaw down and forward which relieves pressure on the TM joint and negates excessive release of cortisol hormone.  This relaxed jaw position increases air flow which increases oxygen intake, helping to reduce the build-up of lactic acid in muscles.

Root Canal Treatment in Salinas, CA

Root canal treatment (also referred to as endodontic therapy) is necessary when the nerve or tooth suffers irreversible trauma. This trauma can be caused by accidents, tooth grinding, fractures, repeated dental procedures and tooth decay. If left untreated and affected nerve can lead to.

Gum Treatment in Salinas, CA

The gums, ligaments, and bone around the teeth from the foundation for ones teeth. All structures are also referred to as the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth just as a bad foundation would threaten the stability of a house.

Digital X-Rays

This is focused beam of X-Ray particles through bone which produces an image on special film, showing the structure through which it passed. This gives the familiar black and white images that doctors and dentists use to diagnose problems. Digital x-rays are a necessary part of the diagnostic process.

Wisdom Teeth Treatment in Salinas, CA

Wisdom teeth are the most posterior of molars found in humans and they usually erupt in young adults of the 17-25 age range. Wisdom teeth can often become impacted, meaning that they don’t erupt into the dental arch within the ideal window of development.  Not everyone has or will have problems with their wisdom teeth, but many people do.

Dental Crowns in Salinas, CA

Crowns are full coverage restorations that are used to cover a tooth that is likely to break, or is too broken down to be restored with a filling. They are most commonly done after root canal treatment, or when a large filling wears out. The larger the hole made by a cavity the more likely a crown will be needed.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Some common cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, gum reshaping, and Invisalign.

The cost of cosmetic dentistry varies depending on the specific procedure and the individual dentist. It’s best to schedule a consultation to get a personalized quote.

General dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing disease, while cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth and smile.

You can research local cosmetic dentists, ask for referrals from friends or family, and check for certifications or accreditation from professional organizations.

Some of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures in Salinas, CA include teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign.

Cosmetic dentistry can improve the appearance of teeth and smile, boost self-confidence, and correct dental issues such as misalignment and gaps.

Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure, but most cosmetic dental procedures have minimal downtime and patients can usually return to normal activities soon after.

Proper oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding habits that can damage the teeth can help maintain the results of a cosmetic dental procedure.

Risks and side effects vary depending on the specific procedure, but common risks include tooth sensitivity, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. It’s important to discuss these with the dentist before any procedure.

Own every grin: let us
perfect those pearls.

Dr. John D. Verdugo, D.D.S.

General Dentist

Dr. Verdugo is from Tucson AZ where he received his education, graduating in 1970 with a Chemical Engineering Degree. He worked for Chevron for three years before entering UOP School of Dentistry. Since his graduation in 1976, he has practiced in the Monterey-Salinas area and has continued his professional education in Endontics, Implantology, and Restorative Dentistry. He is available weekdays, weekends and evenings. Speaks Spanish.

Dr. Robert P. Zernicke, D.D.S

General Dentist

Dr. Zernicke grew up in Nevada and received his bachelors degree at the University of Nevada. Dr. Zernicke was the sole recipient of the State of Nevada’s scholarship fund awarded for scholastic achievement which gave him the opportunity to attend Dental School at the University of Southern California. He has been practicing dentistry since 1990 both in Southern California and here in the Salinas area since 1996. Dr. Zernicke is trained in all phases of Dentistry from cosmetics to endodontics. He is available weekdays and evenings. Speaks Spanish.

Member of American Dental Association
Member of California Dental Association