Bruxing

Bruxing leads to tooth mobility and loss of bone and tooth. Early intervention is critical to prevent serious damage.

Definition

Bruxing is teeth grinding – prolonged stress to your teeth’s “shock absorbers” (tiny periodontal ligaments that individually surround each tooth).

Signs

Its signs are tooth movement and abnormal wear on chewing surfaces, occurring most commonly during sleep and increasing during periods of increased stress.

Prevention

Bite Guard – a custom-fit, acrylic, horseshoe-shaped, oral appliance – is worn over the upper teeth to protect your teeth from grinding. It prevents contact between upper and lower teeth, its acrylic gets worn instead of teeth enamel, it evenly distributes the chewing forces as you grind, and it acts as a retainer to hold the teeth’s position. Ask us about this product when you visit our Clinic.

Comfort

We take every step possible to ensure a precise, custom fit so that your Bite Guard will be comfortable. Notify our office if discomfort is noticed.

Use

Use it whenever you sleep and other times if we recommend it. It will take a week or so to adjust to having something in your mouth while you sleep.

Talking while wearing it may be difficult if you have to wear it while awake. Slowly increase the hours of wear while you get used to it. Eventually, wearing the Bite Guard will become part of your routine.

Cleaning

Our staff will instruct you on how to apply and remove the Bite Guard. Thoroughly brush and clean between your teeth before use. When you awaken, remove your Bite Guard and thoroughly clean both sides with toothpaste, baking-soda slurry, or dental effervescent tablet (like Efferdent). Store it in the case we provide for you.

Keeping your Bite Guard clean is important to ensure a continued proper fit. Bring your Bite Guard with you when you have your teeth cleaned, and we will clean it in our ultrasonic machine.