What is an occlusal guard?

An occlusal guard is a hard and transparent acrylic, elaborated individually to the measure of the teeth. The guard helps you to regulate the force of chewing, it also protects the teeth from wearing out early, and from problems of mandibular articulation.

It is a method used to protect teeth from bruxism, which consists of clenching or grinding teeth.

How long should I use an occlusal guard?

The occlusal guard can be used for 6 months, however, the specialist is the only one who can determine if it is necessary to continue with this treatment.

The guard is usually indicated to be used at night, and you must go to review appointments every month.

If you do not follow the indications of your dentist, the time of treatment can be longer to solve the problem.

Tips to take care of an occlusal guard

• Keep the guard in its case: This will help prevent the guard from being thrown away.

• Wash the guard daily: With an extra brush to your teeth and an antibacterial soap without perfume, in this way the occlusal guard will be kept free of dirt for use. Or you can also use effervescent tablets to clean dentures.

• Go to regular revisions with your dentist: It is important this point, because your dentist need to evaluate your progression to reduce bruxism, the goal you need to reach is eliminating this bad habit on time, but you can change it if you ask for our help.

Actual photography of our dentists working.

If you suffer from bruxism and you already have an occlusal guard, remember to follow the instructions of your dentist to preserve the material of the occlusal guard, if you take care of your guard it can last for ten years or even more.

We will be glad to help you, we perform many other dental procedures. Also check out the next posts:

Keep your implant dentures clean

The best choice for a denture

How do I find out if I’m grinding teeth?

Which are the benefits of using mouthwash?