Night Guards
Many people are afflicted with bruxism, or teeth grinding. Some people may do this consciously during the day, but it is a larger problem at night while you are asleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or irritate your gums. The noise from teeth grinding can also disturb your spouse's sleep if loud enough.
If you grind your teeth you should consider a night guard. The night guard, which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All night guards are custom fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and have the night guard created by a dental lab. Night guards are very durable and can be used for up to 10 years.
There are also some things that you can do to try to stop teeth grinding. You can train your jaw to be free and easy rather than clenched. Refrain from chewing gum or on other objects like pens. You should also avoid alcoholic drinks and drinks with caffeine, as these can increase the likelihood you will grind your teeth. If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth at night set up an appointment with us today.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard
- Waking up with headaches
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Tight or tired jaw muscles
- Partner complains of grinding noise
- Indentations on tongue or cheek tissue
Benefits of Custom Night Guards
The Custom Fitting Process
Consultation & Examination
- Assess grinding damage
- Check jaw alignment
- Discuss symptoms
Impression Taking
- Precise molds of your teeth
- Ensures perfect fit
- Takes only minutes
Lab Fabrication
- Custom-crafted to your teeth
- High-quality materials
- Typically 1-2 weeks
Fitting & Adjustment
- Ensure proper fit
- Check bite alignment
- Instructions for care
Custom vs. Store-Bought Guards
Custom Night Guards (Our Office)
- Perfect fit for your teeth
- Comfortable for all-night wear
- Allows natural breathing
- Durable, long-lasting
- Professional-grade materials
Over-the-Counter Guards
- One-size-fits-all (poor fit)
- Bulky, uncomfortable
- May interfere with breathing
- Shorter lifespan
- Less effective protection
Care & Maintenance
- Rinse with cool water after each use
- Brush gently with toothbrush (no toothpaste)
- Store in protective case when not in use
- Keep away from heat
- Bring to dental appointments for check-ups
- Replace if damaged or ill-fitting
Tips to Reduce Grinding
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
- Avoid caffeine, especially in the evening
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Don't chew gum or pencils
- Practice jaw relaxation exercises
- Maintain regular sleep schedule
- Apply warm compress to jaw before bed
Stop Teeth Grinding Today
Don't let bruxism damage your teeth and disrupt your sleep. A custom night guard provides comfortable, effective protection. Schedule a consultation to see if a night guard is right for you.