A common treatment for bruxism is to give patients a mouth guard. They use this mouth guard whenever they notice themselves clenching their teeth, or grinding their teeth, and often when they sleep.

This mouth guard can go a long way towards protecting your teeth from the damage of bruxism, but it also needs to be properly maintained. Otherwise, it will become a breeding ground for bacteria that is ultimately going to go back into your mouth and get you sick.

Taking Care of Your Mouth Guard

Each time you take your mouth guard out, you need to brush it. Brush it in much the same manner as you would your teeth. Make sure you get each surface of the mouth guard, not just the ones that are up against your teeth. You want to get the edges of the mouth guard as well.

Some mouth guards need to be kept in water between uses, and others should be kept in a dry case before you put it in your mouth. When you are getting your mouth guard fitted by your dentist, make sure that you ask about how they would like you to best care for your mouth guard.

Every now and again, you may need to replace your mouth guard. In this case, you should go back and see your dentist and find out what they want to do. If your mouth guard needs to be adjusted, that may be able to happen, depending on what type of guard you got. Other times, a new guard needs to be made and the original process will start over again.

If you grind or clench your teeth and need a mouth guard to protect your teeth, make sure you keep the mouth guard clean. It helps your teeth stay healthy for longer! Please contact our office if you have any questions about your oral health!