Do you often wake up with a headache or sore jaw in the morning? Do your teeth feel sensitive or loose? If so, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth at night called bruxism. Fortunately, wearing a night guard can help alleviate the symptoms and protect your teeth from further damage. 

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth. It provides a cushioning effect that reduces the impact of grinding or clenching, protecting your teeth from damage. Night guards are made from materials like hard acrylic, soft silicone, or a combination of both. They are available in various sizes and shapes, depending on your needs and preferences.

Key Benefits of Using a Night Guard

• Protects Your Teeth: Night guards protect your teeth from the abrasive forces of clenching or grinding. This can help prevent tooth fractures, chips, and wear.
• Reduces Pain: Bruxism can cause jaw pain, headaches, and earaches. Night guards can reduce the intensity of these symptoms by distributing the forces of grinding or clenching more evenly.
• Improves Sleep Quality: Night guards can improve the quality of your sleep by reducing disruptions caused by grinding and clenching. By reducing the frequency and intensity of these movements, you may be able to sleep more soundly and wake up feeling more rested.
• Prevents TMJ Disorders: TMJ disorders are often caused by the repetitive actions of clenching and grinding. Using a night guard can prevent developing TMJ disorders by reducing the pressure and strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
• Saves Money: By protecting your teeth from damage caused by bruxism, you can avoid costly dental procedures such as crowns, bridges, and implants. Investing in a night guard can save you money by preventing these issues from arising.

How to Use a Night Guard

• Wear It Consistently: To protect your teeth and alleviate symptoms, you need to wear your night guard every night. It may take a while to be accustomed to wearing it, but with time, it will become more comfortable.
• Clean It Regularly: Just like your teeth, your night guard needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. Use mild soap and a soft toothbrush to clean it, and rinse it thoroughly with water.
• Store It Properly: Always store your night guard in its protective case when not in use. This will prevent it from getting lost or damaged and protect it from dust and bacteria.
• Replace It When Necessary: Night guards typically last between 1 and 5 years, depending on their quality and frequency of use. If you suspect any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, chips, or a loose fit, it’s time to replace it.

How to Get a Night Guard

Getting a custom-fitted night guard requires visiting a family dentist in Tucson. Here’s what to expect during the process:

• Consultation: The dentist will check your teeth and ask about your symptoms to determine if a night guard is necessary.
• Impression: If a night guard is recommended, the dentist will take an impression using a putty-like material. This impression will be used to create a custom-fitted night guard.
• Fitting: Once your night guard is ready, your dentist will check its fit and adjust it if necessary. You may need to wear it for a few nights to get used to it.
• Follow-Up: Your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to check the effectiveness of your night guard and make any necessary adjustments.

Key Takeaway

Night guards are effective in protecting your teeth and alleviating the symptoms of bruxism. By using them correctly and following your dentist’s advice, you can enjoy a better night’s sleep and better oral health. If you suspect that you have bruxism, consult your dentist to see if a night guard is right for you.

CFF Dental offers custom-made night guards designed to fit your mouth comfortably and provide maximum protection. Our family dentists in Tucson will determine the best treatment plan for your needs and preferences. Call us today at 520-795-3418 to book a consultation!