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I got a nightguard 8 weeks ago and I've already cracked it in half on both sides?
I got my night guard at the start of september. Within a week it already had some little cracks which I thought were normal, but now it's been about 8 weeks and I've bit through it on both sides (like each tray for the molars is cracked about 1-2 cm up right down the center). I figured it would last longer than this since it was like 400 dollars. Can I still use it? Is this normal or was it maybe defective? Is there any chance I won't need to pay for a new one? (since I clearly need it - i grit my teeth HARD).
Clearly I'll call my dentist but theyre not open til tuesday - any opinions now?
3 Answers
- 1 decade agoFavorite Answer
I had the same problem ... within two months of only wearing my night guard occasionally, it was cracked on both sides. My dentist said he'd never seen anyone do that before. He ordered a replacement at no charge, indicating that they should definitely last longer than that. They hadn't saved my impressions, so they took new ones, and this time made it for the bottom teeth rather than the top teeth. (This time they gave me the impressions, just in case I ever need another one.) This guard also cracked within two months. As long as they're still holding together, he has me alternating between the two guards, and recommended meditation to reduce stress. So you should be able to get a replacement. Have your dentist take a look at it and see if you can still use it safely in the meantime.
Source(s): Based on personal experience - 1 decade ago
My advice to you is to continue to use your mouth guard. The cracked one you have now is better than letting your teeth just grind at night. On tue, go to your dentist to see if he will replace it free of charge (hopefully, they kept your impressions and you won't need to take new ones.)
It sounds like your dentist used a "soft" mouth guard (the technical term). The advantage to a soft mouth guard is that it is slightly more comfortable than a hard mouth guard. Usually, dentist recommend this material for people who are just beginning with a mouth guard.
If he does not offer to replace it (as you will probably just chew through the next one as well) request that he choose the hard material the new mouth guard.
Additionally, there is another type of mouth guard called a mouth splint. This appliance is a tab that you bite on with your front teeth only. It keeps your molars from touching at all, and it helps you to avoid the temptation to chew. However a bite splint is even harder to get used to and more uncomfortable. Patients often don't end up actually wearing their splint. I hope this helps!
Source(s): I work at a dental office - 1 decade ago
I'd call him and ask him if it is normal.
It might be but, personally I don't think so.
If he tries to make you pay for a new one.. well it was his mistake not urs.
You grind your teeth and he should have just made a better one if the cracks aren't normal :]
