Protect your Teeth!

Adult teeth are the last pair we will have, so it’s very important to keep our gums and teeth in good health. Habits such as clenching and grinding can compromise a tooth’s natural shape. Talk to your dental provider if you have these habits. Your dental provider may prescribe a simple dental appliance, such as a mouth guard or a night guard, that can help prevent the loss of tooth structure.

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Mouth Guards

Mouth guards are most commonly used by athletes involved in physical contact sports. Other individuals who are at risk for grinding and clenching are people who lift heavy weights either for work purposes or for leisure and those who live/work in a high-stress environment.

Clenching and grinding is a common involuntary reaction when we are put under physical or mental stress. If you are aware of this habit, be sure to talk to your dental professional, they may suggest customizing a mouth guard for you in-office, or they can share information about other products available.

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Night Guards

A night guard may be recommended if you clench or grind your teeth in your sleep. Usually, a night-time grinder is unaware of this habit until it is pointed out by a dental professional and/or another person. If you are aware of this habit, be sure to talk to your dental professional, they may suggest customizing a night guard for you in-office, or they can share information about other products available.

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Injured Adult Tooth

If an injury results in your adult (permanent tooth) falling off or chipping, you must act fast!

  • How to handle a chipped or broken tooth:
    • Collect all pieces of the tooth
    • Rinse the mouth with warm water
    • Call a dental provider right away and ask for an emergency visit
  • First aid for a knocked-out Permanent (adult) tooth:
    • Bite down on sterile gauze to stop the bleeding
    • Grab the injured tooth by the crown (the chewing surface of the tooth)
    • Place in a cup of milk or your own saliva. Do not place in tap water!
    • Call a dental provider right away to schedule a visit

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