How Do I Know When I Need a Night Guard?
Imagine waking up in the morning only to find that your jaw hurts and you feel a dull headache setting in. If this hypothetical scenario sounds all too real to you, you could be suffering from the after effects of excessive teeth grinding or clenching. Fortunately, our Portage, MI, dentist can help.
But what does this mean and what is the next step? Well, to start, Dr. Paul can conduct an oral examination and listen to your described symptoms before recommending appropriate treatment such as a custom-fitted night guard.
Here’s what you need to know about night guards and when exactly you might benefit from one.
Bruxism and TMJ Disorders
Experienced by many worldwide, is a common condition in which you grind and clench your teeth excessively. It can happen during the day or at night and oftentimes goes unnoticed by the affected individual.
Both adults and children can experience bruxism. Fortunately, most cases are easily treated with dental appliances, like custom night guards. More often than not, bruxism results from high levels of stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite.
Learn More → How You Can Prevent Teeth Grinding
Temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, disorders can also play into an individual’s need for a night guard. Think of your temporomandibular joint as a sliding hinge that connects the jawbone to your skull. When there is compromised or dysfunctional movement of the jaw joint, pain can occur in the facial muscles.
Dr. Paul will have to evaluate your teeth and jaw for obvious and . If tooth wear is found and facial pain is reported after waking, a night guard will be created.
Common Symptoms to Look Out For
Any sign of bruxism or a TMJ disorder should be relayed to our dentist. If left untreated, the long-term existence of either condition can result in possible loss of teeth, enamel, and more.
You may be suffering from bruxism if you’re experiencing:
- Dull headaches after waking up
- Jaw, neck, or face soreness
- Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose
- Fatigue caused by lack of sleep
- Worn tooth enamel
- Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
- Tired or tight jaw muscles
If your grinding or clenching do result in damage to your teeth, Dr. Paul may discuss the need for restorative procedures like dental crowns or dental implants.
How a Night Guard Works
Night guards help protect your teeth and gums from the effects of grinding and clenching. They do this by acting as a barrier between your top and bottom teeth. Because the teeth can’t touch when the night guard is in place, grinding and clenching become difficult.
The night guard also gives the muscles in the jaw a cushioning effect if you do try to . Its presence lightens the tension put on the jaw and prevents pain in the area as well as tooth enamel loss.
Why Choose a Custom-Made Night Guard?
While over-the-counter night guards are available most places, they often fall short in terms of effectiveness and comfort. A night guard crafted specifically for your teeth, provides several advantages such as:
- Superior fit: Custom night guards are tailored to your bite, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place throughout the night.
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials, a custom bite splint is designed to withstand the pressures of bruxism and last longer than generic options.
- Personalization: A custom night guard can be adjusted to suit your specific needs, addressing issues like jaw alignment or TMJ pain.
The upfront cost of a custom night guard may seem higher, but it is far less expensive than the cumulative cost of dental repairs over time. A single crown or root canal can cost a fair amount, not to mention the potential for repeat procedures if bruxism continues to damage your teeth. By wearing a night guard while you sleep, you can preserve your natural teeth and avoid these financial burdens.
Prevent Future Tooth Damage
Put an end to the discomfort caused by conditions like bruxism or TMJ disorders. Our dentist in Portage serving Greater Kalamazoo, MI, would be more than happy to custom-fit you for your very own night guard. Call Courtside Dental today at (269) 327-1011 to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.