What should you do if wear retainers at night and recently were told by your orthodontist that grind teeth night?
1. Wear a Nightguard:
Your orthodontist may recommend wearing a custom nightguard to help protect your teeth from further damage. A nightguard is a thin, custom-made device that fits over your teeth and minimizes grinding and clenching. It acts as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from making contact and reducing the pressure exerted on your teeth.
2. Avoid Hard Foods During The Day:
To reduce the risk of damage to your retainers, avoid biting into hard foods during the day. Hard foods can put excess pressure on your retainers and cause them to break or become damaged.
3. Practice Relaxation Techniques:
Stress and anxiety can worsen teeth grinding. Consider implementing relaxation techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga. Reducing stress can help lessen teeth grinding at night.
4. Keep Retainers Clean:
Ensure your retainers are cleaned daily to maintain proper oral hygiene and prevent bacterial buildup. Follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist for cleaning your retainers. It's crucial to keep your retainers clean to prevent tooth decay and gum problems.
5. Avoid Stimulants before Bed:
Certain substances like caffeine (found in coffee, tea, or energy drinks) and alcohol can worsen teeth grinding. Avoid consuming stimulants before going to bed to reduce the likelihood of nighttime teeth grinding.
6. Sleep Hygiene:
Establish good sleep hygiene habits to promote a restful sleep environment. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and ensure your bedroom is conducive to quality sleep.
7. Follow-up Appointments:
Attend regular follow-up appointments with your orthodontist to discuss your progress and any changes in your treatment. Your orthodontist may make adjustments to your retainers as necessary to ensure they're protecting your teeth effectively.