Occlusal Guard
If you clench or grind your teeth while you’re sleeping, an occlusal guard is your smile’s best friend. Rest easy knowing your dental night guard is preventing future dental issues!
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Using a guard at night prevents the wearing down, cracking, or breaking of your teeth over time. A properly fitted guard can help you maintain your beautiful teeth for a lifetime, and even ease any jaw or joint pain you might be having.
Do You Wake up with Tooth Pain, Tired Jaw Muscles, or a Headache?
Do Your Teeth Have a Flattened Appearance?
You may suffer from bruxism (grinding and/or clenching of your teeth). Thirty to forty million children and adults suffer from bruxism in the United States. Chronic grinding or clenching can lead to temperature sensitivity in your teeth, wear that extends to the nerve of the tooth, cracks in teeth, receding gums, faster wear on fillings and crowns, and even tooth loss. Damage caused by grinding and clenching may require dental treatments such as root canal therapy and crowns that would otherwise not be needed.
Do I Have TMJ From Grinding My Teeth at Night?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a direct result of a grinding or clenching habit. Wearing a nightguard can relieve patients who chronically grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep. This thin, clear appliance will be custom-designed to suit your bruxism habit. The night guard we design for you will be high quality, superior fit, and custom-made by a laboratory from impressions we carefully take in our office.
Can I Just Buy a Nightguard in a Pharmacy?
Nightguards available in local pharmacies over the counter may be used for a temporary measure but often are the cause of increased TMJ discomfort due to the less-than-perfect fit. A right-fitting nightguard from your dentist’s office can be the answer to a good night’s sleep, decreased frequency of headaches, and protecting your beautiful teeth from damage done by grinding or clenching. Ask us about one today.
Occlusal Guards FAQs
An occlusal guard, sometimes called a bite splint or night guard, is a type of dental device intended to shield teeth from damage brought on by bruxism, the condition in which teeth grind or clench as you sleep. It’s typically made of a durable plastic material and custom-fitted to a patient’s teeth. The guard works by creating a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from making direct contact and thus reducing the impact of grinding forces. Occlusal guards not only help alleviate discomfort associated with bruxism, such as jaw pain and headaches, but they also protect the teeth from wear and tear, preserving dental health in the long term.
To clean your occlusal guard, begin by rinsing it under lukewarm water to remove any loose debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material. Next, gently brush the guard using a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the guard. Rinse it thoroughly afterward.
Additionally, following the product’s instructions, consider soaking your occlusal guard in a denture cleaner or a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar for deeper cleaning. Finally, allow the guard to air dry completely before storing it in its case to prevent bacterial growth. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will help prolong the lifespan of your occlusal guard and ensure its effectiveness in protecting your teeth.
You should consider getting a night guard if you experience symptoms of bruxism, such as jaw pain, headaches, worn tooth enamel, or chipped teeth. Additionally, if your dentist notices signs of teeth grinding or clenching during a routine examination, they may recommend a night guard as a preventive measure.
Furthermore, if you frequently wake up with sore jaw muscles or if your sleep partner complains of grinding noises, it’s advisable to consult with a dentist to determine if a night guard is necessary. Ultimately, a night guard can help protect your teeth from damage caused by bruxism and alleviate associated discomfort, promoting better oral health and quality sleep.