What are night guards?
Night guards are small oral appliances custom-fit for your mouth. They are compact enough to fit comfortably in your hand and are commonly made from clear plastic, making them discreet when you are wearing them. Many patients appreciate this discretion rather than drawing attention to their teeth. To learn more about how they look and fit, contact our Coral Gables dental office.
Do I really need to wear a night guard?
If you grind your teeth while sleeping, then wearing a night guard can help. At Gables Exceptional Dentistry, we prioritize preventive care whenever possible, and a custom guard can help reduce unnecessary wear and damage to your teeth. Permanent teeth cannot be replaced naturally, so protecting them from grinding is important. Ongoing grinding, also known as Bruxism, can lead to discomfort and expensive dental repairs over time. While some patients may be reluctant to sleep with a guard, we only recommend treatment when we believe it will genuinely offer an improvement for your condition.
Why do most people wear a night guard?
The reason for needing a night guard depends on the results of your consultation. Patients wear them to:
- Prevent damage. If you have invested in dental repairs or cosmetic dentistry, nighttime grinding can cause damage to the work you had done. Even healthy teeth can become chipped, cracked, flattened, or weakened from constant pressure. Over time, this may expose sensitive areas of the tooth and create discomfort when eating or drinking. Continued grinding can also contribute to gum recession and loose teeth. A night guard creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to help prevent this damage from happening.
- Ease discomfort.
Grinding your teeth at night can cause headaches, sore jaw, or tooth pain. If morning discomfort is becoming common, a night guard may help relieve these symptoms. Many patients at Gables Exceptional Dentistry notice improvement within a short time after beginning treatment. Wearing a night guard consistently is important for best results. While stress and tension are often associated with teeth grinding, the exact cause is not always clear, which is why continued protection is beneficial./li>
- Treating TMJ.
Frequent grinding and jaw clenching may contribute to TMJ disorders. Symptoms often begin with sore jaws or headaches in the morning but can progress to facial pain, neck discomfort, or pain while chewing. If you experience any of these issues, call (305) 614-2438 to schedule an appointment at our Coral Gables office. Early treatment with a night guard may help reduce jaw pressure and prevent the condition from becoming worse. In advanced cases, TMJ can interfere with speaking, eating, and even being able to open your mouth comfortably.
Are they comfortable to wear?
Yes. Our custom night guards are created using detailed measurements to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The material is durable yet comfortable enough to wear throughout the night without disrupting your sleep.
Can night guards help with sleep apnea?
There are oral appliances that are designed specifically to help manage sleep apnea. They are different from standard night guards, and we can explain the available options during your appointment.
How long will my night guard last?
With proper care, a professionally made night guard can last for several years. Store-bought versions are less durable and may only last six months to a year. Custom guards made by a dentist are designed with stronger materials and can continue functioning well for a much longer time. At Gables Exceptional Dentistry, we recommend storing your guard in the protective case we provide. Many patients keep it safely in a nightstand drawer to avoid damage or loss. If you travel frequently, having a second guard for your luggage may also be helpful.
What should I do to take care of my night guard?
Keeping your night guard clean is simple. Brush it regularly with a soft toothbrush, toothpaste, and lukewarm water to remove plaque buildup. You can also soak it weekly in a dental cleaning solution for additional care. Make sure it is dry before storing it to help reduce the risk of bacterial buildup.
If you would like more information on night guards and how they may benefit you, call our Coral Gables dental office to schedule an appointment. You can reach us at (305) 614-2438.
