Olympic Dental Health

Dental Thrills and Olympic Grills!

It is that time of the year again, where Americans sit too closely to their television, wring their hands, and visualize themselves winning a gold medal just like the Olympic athletes seen in front of them.  However, if you want to mimic them, not only do you need to start training daily, but you will also need to pay close attention to your dental health and maintain a close relationship with your doctor (Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, or Dr. Beckman).

Athletes know that in order to be at the top of their game, they need to live a healthy life, including well maintained teeth and gums.  The Olympic Village in London actually embraced a state-of-the-art dental clinic run by volunteer doctors and hygienists in order to provide care to thousands of athletes and staff throughout the 2012 summer games.  Paul Warren, Director of Global Professional and Scientific Relations for Procter & Gamble Co., states that this facility provides basic care and restoration as some athletes may come from countries in which preventive oral care is not offered.

Physical Injuries

The clinic also provides mouth guards for athletes. This is very important as dental implants for those under the age of 35 is commonly due to physical injuries while those older than 35 is more commonly occurred from periodontal disease and caries.  The clinic even offers a dentist to attend contact events where a mouth injury is more likely to ensue. Dentist Dr. Tony Clough, who was the primary force in developing the dental program for the 2012 games and also volunteered in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing  stated, "The biggest priority is going to be emergency care like broken teeth and abscesses, which are going to happen among 40,000 people."

With popularity in dental care rising among athletes, one can only hope they will become advocates for dental health. “When athletes go home with medals around their necks, they often become ambassadors for their sports, their countries, and, it is hoped for preventive oral health”, Warren said. With 14,700 athletes at the games coming from over 205 countries, we hope that is enough role models to spark more interest in dental maintenance. (and here in the Denver- Aurora, CO area, we are proud to say Missy Franklin is among those athletes.)

GRILLS?

One athlete in particular has already caught the attention of viewers with his teeth antics.  Ryan Lochte’s grill cost him $25,000, and he states, “It’s a way of showing my unique personality to everyone.” Not everyone appreciates his over the top smile like he does, but as long as his teeth are healthy and protected underneath, Periodontal Associates, Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, and Dr. Beckman are supportive.

If you are trying to find your personality again, a beautiful smile is a great way to start.  At Periodontal Associates, you may not be walking out with a diamond encrusted grill; however, you WILL walk out with a perfected smile you will want to show off all the same.  Stop by our office today in the Denver- Aurora, CO area to see how we can turn your vision and turn it into a reality or contact us at (303) 755-4500 to schedule your appointment to see Dr. Versman, Heller, or Beckman.