Do Night Guards Really Guard Your Teeth?
If you grind your teeth while sleeping, your dentist may recommend you get a night guard. A night guard is a type of a mouth guard that many dentists recommend to patients who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism). In addition to this, night guards also help you sleep better by controlling snoring. Hence, it is not only beneficial for you but also for others around you.
The best and most effective night guards are those that your dentist custom makes for you. But, what do night guards actually do for your teeth?
Why you Need a Night Guard
One of the main contributing factors to clenching and grinding of teeth is stress. Clenching and grinding rubs teeth together for long periods of time. This can wear down the biting surface of the tooth, while also damaging and straining the ligaments, tendons and joints involved in moving the jaw. One of the most common forms of bruxism is nocturnal bruxism. The main goal of treatment with a lightweight night guard is to reduce the eroding effects on upper and lower teeth affected, as well as reduce the strain on the muscles and tendons.
A night guard may Initially take some getting used to and some adjustments so it can fit just right.
Are Night Guards the only way to Protect Your Teeth From Clenching?
A night guard is usually only part of the treatment for a clenching or bruxism habit. Another part of it is identifying the contributing factors in your life that could be causing you to clench or grind. As already mentioned, one of the main ones is stress. An important part of treatment is to make sure that you find ways of reducing your stress levels.
Once the joint becomes damaged, there’s no way to reverse the damage done by bruxism. Hence, it is very important to take the necessary actions.
Are Night Guards Affordable?
You can order a customized, lightweight and durable night guard for as low as $200. They type of night guard recommended will depend on your specific needs. This will be discussed with you during your consultation.
If you wake up with headaches or a sore jaw, this may be a sign that you’re clenching or grinding your teeth while you sleep. Call Karen Gordon DMD today at 954-983-9004 or visit our office in Hollywood, Florida.
