Post Treatment Care and Instructions
Occlusal Guards
We have recommended the use of an occlusal guard or "night guard." This appliance will aid in protecting your teeth from clenching or grinding, the harmful wearing and destruction of enamel that this habit causes to your teeth. People with nighttime grinding habits may wear their tooth enamel ten times faster than those without such abusive habits. You may also notice that your night guard can reduce or even alleviate headaches that also occur from clenching or grinding at night.
Night guards can be made in two appointments and are custom made on a model of your mouth to assure adequate retention and optimal comfort.
The treatment of bruxism (grinding) and clenching is very cost effective compared to no treatment. The alternative is to replace or repair the damaged and destroyed teeth with either fixed crowns, bridges or removable dentures.
Use of Appliance: Wear your occlusal guard nightly while sleeping. It may take a few nights to become comfortable with wearing it throughout the night. Do not be alarmed; just continue to wear it as much as possible.
Care: Remove your night guard and clean it by brushing it with your toothbrush.
**Always keep the appliance in it the case so it is not misplaced or mistaken as a toy by pets.
If we have recommended a "hard" night guard you may notice some sensitivity or pressure to the teeth. This is normal due to the tight fit of these appliances. Don't worry, this will subside. However, if it does not, we may need to make adjustments to your night guard. The alternative to a “hard” night guard is a soft, vinyl variety. This type is tolerated best by new night guard wearers, gaggers and those able and desiring to whiten their teeth.
Signs of nocturnal bruxism and/or clenching:
- Stiff jaw in the morning
- Difficulty opening, especially in the morning
- Sensitivity to cold
- Jaw muscles feel tired in the morning
- Headaches - especially when you wake-up
