When signs of grinding are present, our Grandville dentist evaluates the bite and wear patterns to determine whether protecting the teeth would be beneficial.
Because the exact cause of grinding is not fully understood, it is often difficult to completely stop. For many patients the most practical approach is protecting the teeth from the forces involved.
Dr. Klein often explains that an acts as "sacrificial plastic." The appliance absorbs the pressure from grinding instead of your teeth. Repairing or replacing a guard is far simpler than repairing worn or fractured teeth.
Patients frequently ask how long a night guard will last. The answer depends on how hard it is used. Dr. Klein compares it to tires on a car. The harder they are used, the faster they wear. Custom night guards are similar. Some patients wear through one in a few years, while others use the same appliance much longer.
Many patients initially believe they could never sleep with an appliance in their mouth. Once the guard is carefully balanced to the bite, most adapt very well and many say they notice soreness when they forget to wear it.
In fairness, a small number of patients never fully adapt. These patients often have more significant TMJ dysfunction or nighttime breathing problems. When this occurs, further evaluation or referral to a sleep or TMJ specialist may be appropriate.
Why Early Protection Matters
Over time, heavy grinding can slowly shorten and flatten the teeth. Patients sometimes notice their smile looks different, their teeth appear shorter, or their teeth no longer show as much in photographs.
Dr. Klein often compares this to two gears that have worn together over time. If one gear breaks and a new piece is placed into that worn system, the parts no longer mesh properly and the worn gear simply grinds down the replacement.
Teeth behave in a similar way. Severe grinding is one of the most common pathways that eventually leads to full mouth rehabilitation. Protecting the teeth early with a custom bite guard can help prevent that progression.
Daytime Teeth Grinding Protection
Some patients also notice they grind their teeth during the day while concentrating. When focusing, especially with the chin tipped downward, some people bring the lower jaw forward and rub the edges of their front teeth together.
For these patients, Dr. Klein may fabricate a thin clear appliance that fits over the lower teeth. Inside our Grandville, MI, dental office, this is often called a "day guard," though technically it is similar to an orthodontic Essix retainer.
Because it is only about 1–1.5 mm thick, it is discreet and usually does not interfere with speech. Many patients find it helpful for protecting their teeth during daytime clenching.
Sports Mouthguards
For patients who participate in sports, a properly fitted mouthguard helps protect the teeth from fractures or avulsion (a tooth being completely knocked out).
Over-the-counter "boil and bite" mouthguards often fit loosely and must be clenched to stay in place, which can interfere with breathing and speech. A custom sports mouthguard fits securely without needing to be bitten down on, allowing better comfort, breathing, and protection.
Dental injuries occur in many sports including basketball, hockey, lacrosse, wrestling, soccer, baseball, and recreational activities like pickleball. An athletic mouthguard can keep your smile safe.
