Night guards are protective dental appliances used to create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth. Their primary purpose is to protect teeth from the damaging effects of grinding or clenching (bruxism) and to alleviate associated jaw pain or headaches. Many individuals wonder if these appliances can inadvertently cause teeth to shift.
Understanding Tooth Movement
Teeth are not rigidly fixed within the jawbone. They are held in place by the periodontal ligament, a network of fibers surrounding the tooth root. This ligament, along with the surrounding alveolar bone, allows for slight physiological movement. When consistent, gentle force is applied to a tooth, it triggers a natural biological process called bone remodeling.
This remodeling involves two types of cells: osteoclasts, which break down bone where pressure is applied, and osteoblasts, which build new bone where tension is created. This coordinated breakdown and buildup allows teeth to gradually move through the jawbone. Orthodontic treatments, like braces, leverage this process by applying controlled forces to reposition teeth into desired alignments.
Factors Causing Unwanted Tooth Movement
While night guards are designed to protect teeth, they can cause unwanted tooth movement under specific circumstances. An ill-fitting or improperly designed night guard is a primary culprit. Generic, “boil-and-bite,” or poorly crafted custom guards may exert uneven or incorrect pressure on certain teeth, mimicking the continuous forces used in orthodontics. This sustained, unbalanced pressure can slowly push teeth out of alignment.
Improper use, such as wearing a night guard for too long or not as prescribed, can also contribute to issues. If a night guard is worn when it is no longer properly fitted, it can begin to apply unintended forces. The material properties of the night guard also play a role; some softer materials may wear down unevenly or encourage more clenching, leading to shifting. Without regular professional oversight, subtle changes in fit or tooth position might go unnoticed, allowing problems to progress.
Minimizing Risk and Ensuring Safety
To prevent unwanted tooth movement, prioritize custom-fitted night guards. These appliances are professionally made from impressions of your teeth, ensuring a precise fit that distributes pressure evenly across the dental arch. This tailored approach minimizes the risk of uneven forces that could lead to tooth shifting and offers optimal comfort and stability.
Regular dental check-ups are important. A dentist can periodically assess the night guard’s fit and condition, monitoring for subtle changes in tooth alignment or bite. Proper care and maintenance of the night guard are also important. This includes daily rinsing and gentle brushing, along with weekly deep cleaning, to ensure the appliance maintains its shape and integrity. Promptly communicate any discomfort, changes in bite, or signs of shifting teeth to your dentist to address potential issues early.
What to Do if Teeth Shift
If you suspect your teeth have shifted due to a night guard, stop using the appliance immediately. Continuing to wear a guard that is causing movement can worsen the problem. Consult your dentist without delay.
A dental professional can evaluate the cause and extent of any tooth movement, assessing the night guard’s fit and examining your bite. They can then discuss potential solutions, which may involve adjusting your current night guard or creating a new one with a proper fit. In cases of significant tooth movement, orthodontic intervention, such as braces or clear aligners, might be recommended to realign the teeth. Avoid attempting any self-correction, as this can lead to further complications.