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How a Night Guard Can Protect Your Teeth from Grinding
Do you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or sensitive teeth? You may be grinding your teeth at night without even realizing it. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can wreak havoc on your smile and overall comfort. Fortunately, a custom night guard from Perinton Dental Group in Fairport, NY, can help protect your teeth, relieve pain, and improve your sleep quality.
Let’s explore what causes teeth grinding and how a night guard can be the simple solution you didn’t know you needed.
Understanding Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
What is Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism is a condition in which you involuntarily grind, gnash, or clench your teeth, often during sleep. It’s more common than you might think, affecting millions of adults and children alike.
Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
- Worn-down or flattened teeth
- Tooth sensitivity or pain
- Jaw tightness or soreness
- Morning headaches
- Clicking or popping in the jaw
- Sleep disruption
Many people don’t realize they grind their teeth until a dentist spots the damage or a partner mentions the noise!
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can stem from several causes, including:
- Stress or anxiety
- Sleep disorders like sleep apnea
- Bite misalignment or crooked teeth
- Certain medications
- Lifestyle factors like caffeine or alcohol intake
Regardless of the cause, it’s important to address grinding early to prevent long-term damage.
The Impact of Teeth Grinding on Your Oral Health
- Damage to Teeth, like Cracks, Chips, and Wear: Grinding exerts excessive pressure on your teeth, wearing down enamel, creating fractures, or even causing teeth to loosen over time.
- Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders: Chronic grinding can lead to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, resulting in jaw stiffness, pain when chewing, and clicking sounds when opening your mouth.
- Headaches and Earaches: The tension from jaw clenching often radiates to your head and neck, triggering frequent headaches or ear discomfort.
How a Night Guard Can Help
What is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-made oral appliance that fits over your teeth, usually worn while sleeping, to prevent contact between your upper and lower teeth. It acts as a cushion, absorbing the pressure of grinding and clenching.
Types of Night Guards: Over-the-Counter vs. Custom-Fitted
- Over-the-counter (OTC) guards are available at pharmacies but often lack a proper fit and durability. They can feel bulky or even exacerbate jaw issues if not fitted correctly.
- Custom-fitted night guards, like those provided at Perinton Dental Group, are tailored to your unique bite and designed for comfort, durability, and effectiveness.
The Benefits of a Custom Night Guard from Perinton Dental Group
- Precise, comfortable fit
- Reduced jaw tension and facial pain
- Protection against enamel wear and tooth fractures
- Improved sleep quality
- Prevention of costly dental treatments in the future
Getting a Custom Night Guard at Perinton Dental Group
The Consultation and Evaluation Process
Your first step is a comprehensive consultation at our Fairport, NY, office. We’ll assess your bite, jaw health, and signs of bruxism to determine whether a night guard is right for you.
Impression Taking and Fabrication
We take a digital or physical impression of your teeth to create a perfectly fitting guard. The custom night guard is then fabricated using high-quality materials in a dental lab.
Fitting and Adjusting Your Night Guard
Once your guard is ready, we’ll make sure it fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it doesn’t interfere with breathing or cause jaw strain.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Cleaning and Storage Tips
- Rinse your night guard with cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush, no toothpaste (it’s too abrasive)
- Soak it in a non-alcoholic denture or night guard cleaner weekly
- Store it in a ventilated case away from heat and pets
How Long Will My Night Guard Last?
With proper care, your custom night guard can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. Bring it to your dental visits so we can check its condition regularly.
Is a Night Guard Right for You?
When to Consider a Night Guard
If you experience:
- Jaw pain or tension
- Unexplained tooth wear or sensitivity
- Frequent headaches upon waking
- Cracked or broken restorations
…it’s time to consider a night guard.
Other Treatments for Teeth Grinding
Depending on the cause, other treatment options may include:
- Stress management techniques
- Physical therapy or jaw exercises
- Orthodontics to correct bite issues
- Adjusting medications under your doctor’s guidance
Schedule Your Night Guard Consultation in Fairport, NY
Why Choose Perinton Dental Group?
We believe in protecting your teeth and improving your quality of life, one smile at a time. Our team provides expert care, precise diagnostics, and custom-made night guards that fit your needs and your lifestyle.
Call Us Today to Protect Your Smile!
Don’t let teeth grinding wear down your smile. Call Perinton Dental Group in Fairport, NY, today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward relief, protection, and better sleep.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.