At Preston Meadow Family Dentistry, we provide custom night guards to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding (bruxism) and clenching. If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice signs of wear on your teeth, a night guard may be the ideal solution to protect your oral health while you sleep.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often occurring during sleep. Many people are unaware that they grind their teeth until they experience symptoms such as:
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Frequent headaches upon waking
- Worn or damaged teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tightness or discomfort in the neck and shoulders
Left untreated, bruxism can lead to serious dental issues, such as tooth fractures, enamel erosion, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
What is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-made oral appliance worn over the teeth during sleep to prevent contact between the upper and lower teeth. It acts as a barrier, absorbing the pressure from grinding or clenching and protecting your teeth from damage.
Night guards are made from durable, high-quality materials and are custom-fitted to ensure comfort while you sleep.
Benefits of Using a Night Guard
- Protects Teeth from Damage: Night guards prevent the wear and tear caused by grinding, preserving your tooth enamel and preventing fractures.
- Reduces Jaw Pain and Tension: Wearing a night guard can alleviate the strain on your jaw muscles, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Prevents Headaches: By minimizing grinding and clenching, night guards can help reduce the frequency of headaches associated with bruxism.
- Improves Sleep Quality: Relieving the tension caused by grinding may lead to more restful and uninterrupted sleep.
- Custom Fit for Comfort: Our night guards are custom-made for your teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit that won’t disrupt your sleep.
Who Should Consider a Night Guard?
You may benefit from a night guard if you experience:
- Frequent jaw pain or discomfort
- Tightness or soreness in your facial muscles
- Worn, cracked, or chipped teeth
- Chronic headaches, particularly in the morning
- Teeth grinding sounds heard by a sleep partner
During your consultation, our team will evaluate your symptoms and examine your teeth to determine if a night guard is the right solution for you.
How is a Night Guard Made?
- Consultation and Exam: During your visit, we will examine your teeth and jaws, discuss your symptoms, and take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fit night guard.
- Custom Fabrication: Your night guard will be carefully crafted to fit the unique shape of your teeth, providing maximum comfort and protection.
- Fitting: Once your night guard is ready, we will ensure it fits comfortably and securely. We’ll also provide instructions on how to care for and clean your night guard.
Caring for Your Night Guard
To extend the life of your night guard and keep it in optimal condition:
- Clean it daily: Rinse your night guard with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser after each use.
- Store it properly: Keep your night guard in a protective case when not in use, and avoid exposure to extreme heat.
- Bring it to checkups: Bring your night guard to your regular dental appointments so we can ensure it remains in good condition and continues to fit properly.
Schedule a Consultation for a Custom Night Guard
If you suspect you’re grinding or clenching your teeth at night, don’t wait for further damage to occur. A custom night guard can protect your teeth, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life. Contact us today at Preston Meadow Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation and learn how a night guard can help you.
