Tooth-grinding and prevention

Many people grind their teeth at night. So what's the big deal?

Dentists often recommend night guards for prevention. We see hairline fractures and cracked teeth regularly. It's traumatic to break a tooth; it's even worse when a patient seems to break one every other year.

A patient says, "I was recommended to get a night guard years ago, but I'm fine." Unfortunately, we're only fine until we're not. I tell my patients that most people would benefit from wearing a night guard, but most people won't do so without a motivating event. I was previously aware that I was grinding my teeth at night, but I never got a night guard until I cracked two of my fillings. I've been wearing one daily ever since.

Ideally, dentists want to help you avoid events like that, and there are times when a patient urgently needs a night guard to prevent other issues as well. I will discuss preventative measures for other issues in the next column!