Adult teeth are the last pair we will have! So, keeping our gums and teeth in good health is very important. Habits such as clenching and grinding, can compromise the natural shape of a tooth. Talk to your dental provider if you have these habits. Your dental provider might prescribe simple appliances that help prevent the loss of tooth structure – two most common appliances are mouth guards and night guards.
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.
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.
Injured Adult Tooth
If an injury results in your adult (permanent tooth) falling off or chipping, you must act fast!
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- Chipped or broken:
- Collect all pieces of the tooth
- Rinse the mouth with warm water
- Call a dental provider right away and ask for an emergency visit
- Permanent tooth knocked out:
- Bite down on sterile gauze to stop the bleeding
- Grab injured tooth by the crown (white, chewing surface of 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
- Chipped or broken:
