Night Guards
Teeth clenching and grinding can damage teeth and be harmful to one’s long-term oral health. Night guards are recommended to protect patients who clench or grind their teeth during the night. These custom-designed appliances are made of flexible plastic and molded to comfortably fit the shape of your teeth.
Custom-made oral appliances can also be used as part of treatment for conditions like sleep apnea and TMJ disorders. In general, plastic appliances can be used to correct a variety of problems.
Purpose and Benefits:
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Dental night guards are primarily used to address bruxism, a condition where individuals unconsciously grind or clench their teeth during sleep. This repetitive grinding can cause tooth damage, jaw pain, headaches, and other oral health problems. Night guards act as a protective barrier, absorbing the forces generated during grinding and preventing damage to the teeth.
Jaw Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Night guards can help relieve jaw pain and symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). They provide a cushioning effect, reducing the strain on the jaw muscles and joint.
Tooth Protection: For individuals with dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, night guards help protect these expensive dental investments from damage caused by bruxism.
Improved Sleep: Wearing a night guard can also improve sleep quality for individuals who experience discomfort due to bruxism. By reducing teeth grinding and associated pain, it promotes a more restful night's sleep.
If you clench or grind your teeth in the night or are experiencing any concerns about your mouth, teeth, or jaw, call us today. Let us help you determine if a night guard is right for you.