Broken Mouth Guard: At-Home Temporary Care Measures
These temporary measures should NOT be considered substitutes for professional dental treatment. It's imperative to visit a dentist as soon as possible for proper care.
Remove the Appliance:
- Carefully remove the appliance to prevent injury or swallowing any broken pieces.
Inspect the Damage:
- Examine the appliance to understand the extent and location of the breakage.
- Look for any sharp edges that might cause injury.
Avoid Further Use:
- Stop using the appliance if it’s broken. Continued use might cause oral injuries or damage your teeth.
Rinse and Clean:
- Gently rinse the appliance with water to remove any debris.
Store Safely:
- Keep all pieces of the appliance together and store them in a safe place, such as its container.
Temporary Alternatives:
- If you have a backup grinding appliance, use it until the broken one is replaced or repaired.
- If not, try to minimize grinding triggers, like stress, and avoid chewing gum or hard foods that might exacerbate grinding.
Pain Management:
- If you experience pain or jaw related symptoms due to not wearing the appliance see WHAT TO DO > until you can see your dentist.
Oral Hygiene:
- Maintain good oral hygiene, focusing on thorough cleaning.
