Night Guard
Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sore teeth? You might be grinding your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. While it’s a common issue, it can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: night guards.
what is a night guard?
A night guard is a custom-made oral appliance worn at night to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding or clenching. It acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from coming into direct contact.
The Benefits of Night Guards
Night guards offer a range of benefits for those struggling with bruxism:
- Protect Your Teeth: By preventing teeth from grinding together, night guards help reduce wear and tear on enamel, minimizing the risk of chips, cracks, and fractures.
- Reduce Jaw Pain: The constant pressure from grinding can strain your jaw muscles, leading to pain and discomfort. Night guards help alleviate this pain by reducing the force of clenching.
- Prevent Headaches: Bruxism can contribute to headaches and migraines, as the jaw muscles are connected to the head and neck. Night guards can help reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches.
- Improve Sleep Quality: Teeth grinding can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tired and groggy in the morning. Night guards can help you sleep more soundly and wake up feeling refreshed.
How We Can Help
At Laguna Niguel Smiles Dentistry, we understand the importance of addressing bruxism effectively. Our experienced dentists will carefully assess your needs and create a custom-fit night guard that provides optimal protection and comfort.
We’ll take impressions of your teeth to ensure the night guard fits perfectly, minimizing discomfort and maximizing its effectiveness. We’ll also discuss the best way to care for your night guard and answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
A night guard is custom-made to fit your teeth and bite. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab, where the night guard is fabricated based on those impressions.
While mouthguards are typically used in sports to protect teeth from injury, night guards are specifically designed to address the unique challenges of teeth grinding or clenching during sleep.
Yes, night guards are designed to be comfortable and non-intrusive. They are made from a soft, flexible material that molds to your teeth for a snug fit.
The duration of night guard usage varies depending on your specific condition. Your dentist will provide guidance on how often and for how long you should wear your night guard.
Night guards are not typically used to treat sleep apnea. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important to consult with a sleep specialist who can recommend appropriate treatment options.
request an appointment
Don’t let bruxism take a toll on your oral health and overall well-being. Contact Laguna Niguel Smiles Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and learn how a custom night guard can help you achieve a healthier, happier smile. We’re conveniently located in Laguna Niguel and offer flexible appointment times to fit your busy schedule.
