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Nightguards: Protect Your Teeth from Grinding and Clenching
Teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, can cause serious damage to your teeth and lead to discomfort such as jaw pain, headaches, and even sleep disturbances. While the exact causes of bruxism are not fully understood, stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea may contribute to it. Our best solution is to prevent the harmful effects of bruxism with the use of nightguards.What Is a Nightguard?
A nightguard is a custom-made mouthpiece that you wear while sleeping to protect against teeth grinding and clenching. Made from soft plastic or rubber, it fits comfortably over your upper or lower teeth to prevent them from touching, which helps minimize wear, jaw pain, and other symptoms associated with bruxism.Do You Need a Nightguard?
Bruxism often occurs unconsciously, especially during sleep. Many patients only realize they grind or clench their teeth when a dentist notices the damage, or they experience symptoms such as:
- Worn, cracked, or broken teeth
- Jaw, neck, or back muscle pain
- Headaches, facial pain, or earaches
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Difficulty sleeping
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, a nightguard can help prevent further damage and provide relief.
Over-the-Counter Nightguards vs. Custom Nightguards
While you may find over-the-counter nightguards at drugstores, we strongly recommend custom-made nightguards for the best results. Here’s why:
- Custom Fit: Created from a precise model of your teeth, custom nightguards fit snugly and comfortably, without slipping or causing irritation.
- Better Durability: Custom nightguards are more durable and designed to withstand the pressure of grinding, ensuring long-lasting protection.
- Increased Comfort: Pre-formed or boil-and-bite nightguards can be bulky and may interfere with breathing or speech, making them less comfortable to wear.
The Custom Nightguard Procedure
Getting a custom nightguard is simple:
- Consultation and Fitting: We take an impression of your teeth to create an exact model.
- Fabrication: Your nightguard is custom-made to fit your unique bite.
- Final Fitting: When your nightguard is ready, you’ll try it on, and we can make adjustments to ensure comfort.
Preventing Bruxism
Bruxism doesn’t always happen at night—some people clench their teeth during the day without realizing it. If you suspect daytime clenching, try setting reminders to relax your jaw throughout the day. Your lips should be closed, but your teeth should remain apart when your jaw is relaxed. This conscious effort can help minimize bruxism’s effects, even during waking hours.
Tips for Reducing Teeth Clenching
- Reduce Stress: Stress and anxiety can contribute to bruxism. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These can increase muscle activity and promote clenching or grinding.
- Check with Your Dentist: Regular check-ups can help identify bruxism early, even if you aren’t experiencing pain or discomfort.
If you suspect you have bruxism or have been diagnosed with it, a custom nightguard can help protect your teeth and reduce discomfort. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how nightguards can improve your oral health.