Clenching in sleep

[Bracefacekris]

Pre-braces I had a night guard due to clenching in my sleep. I just got my braces on about two weeks ago. I have some bite guards on two back bottom molars and I'm so worried that I'll break those molars in half in my sleep. I'm wondering if I should go out and get a cheap night guard for now. Anyone have any experience with this?

[carrieann]

Pre-braces I had a night guard due to clenching in my sleep. I just got my braces on about two weeks ago. I have some bite guards on two back bottom molars and I'm so worried that I'll break those molars in half in my sleep. I'm wondering if I should go out and get a cheap night guard for now. Anyone have any experience with this?

I also clench/grind at night and wore a fitted night guard before braces at night. Got the braces on and the molar build ups on back molars. So far I haven't broke them or even grinded them down. I was even worried I would break my brackets too by clenching so hard. I must be doing better with the clenching some how post braces. My jaw is not sore when I wake up anymore. I have no idea how or why it got better after years of clenching but maybe it will for you too. Maybe ask your ortho or dentist if you should get a store bought night guard, especially if it makes you feel better.

[Bracefacekris]

Im so glad you've gone through this as well. Thank you for sharing! My molars with bite guards are sensitive in the morning, but not painful. I've also bitten through half of the bite guards, but I'm thinking it's mostly from eating. I'm trying to remain hopeful! :) Thank you for the advice- I'll ask my ortho at the next appt!

[EWUgal15]

I was also a grinder pre braces. When I got my braces on, I had a somewhat fitted guard made and it seemed to help but I did actually stop grinding for a while and didn't need the guard. My ortho didn't seem to think I would need a guard or build ups. Lately, 7 months post jaw surgery, I've noticed I'm clenching more than grinding but it hasn't hindered my treatment and my orthodontist hasn't said anything about damage to my teeth. He also thinks that having an upper and lower clear retainer will be protection enough if I start grinding again. If it doesn't work out, we're planning a new night guard made off the molds that will be used for my retainers.

[carrieann]

I could be nuts but I really feel my clenching and grinding are soooo much better post braces. For years, pre braces my jaw was so sore every morning and I HAD to sleep with my night guard. It was bad. I have grinded my teeth down. Now, only one month into braces I have had immediate relief with grinding and clenching. Not sore in the am anymore. My right jaw still pops when I open my mouth but I think my ortho said that will be fixed with time in braces. I'm just shocked at how much better things are.