Protecting Your Teeth with a Night Guard
In some cases, teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) can occur even without the presence of TMD symptoms. Whether it’s due to stress, misaligned teeth, or simply a bad habit, grinding your teeth, especially at night, can lead to a number of problems. This can wear down the enamel, cause jaw pain, irritate your gums, and in some cases, disturb your sleep (or your partner’s) with the noise.
If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard may be just what you need to protect your enamel and relieve discomfort.
What is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-made dental device that fits comfortably over your teeth while you sleep. It acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing the grinding action that can lead to enamel damage and jaw strain. Think of it like a mouth guard that athletes wear, but designed specifically for comfort and to support sleeping during the night.
How It Works:
Custom Fitting: Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth, and from there, a dental lab will create a night guard that’s perfectly tailored to fit your mouth. This ensures it’s comfortable, stays in place, and allows for proper airflow while you sleep.
Durable and Long-Lasting: Night guards are designed to be durable and can typically last for up to 10 years with proper care.
Additional Tips to Help Prevent Teeth Grinding:
While a night guard provides excellent protection, there are also lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce teeth grinding:
Relax Your Jaw: Try to consciously relax your jaw throughout the day to avoid unnecessary tension.
Avoid Chewing on Non-Food Items: Refrain from chewing gum or objects like pens, as this can train your jaw muscles to remain tense.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding, especially at night, so try to avoid them in the hours leading up to bedtime.
If you think you might be grinding your teeth at night or experiencing any symptoms of bruxism, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can help you get fitted for a custom night guard and offer advice on how to protect your teeth for the long term. Schedule an appointment with us today!