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NIGHT GUARDS
Night guards are often the preferred treatment for individuals with a history of unconscious teeth clenching or grinding during sleep, a condition known as bruxism. Many individuals may not even be aware of their nighttime teeth grinding. Prolonged bruxism can lead to various dental, jaw, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues, including tooth wear, cracks, and fractures, as well as frequent headaches and TMJ disorders if left untreated. Early intervention is crucial to prevent future complications.
Similar to night guards, sports mouth guards are recommended for athletes participating in both contact and non-contact sports. The fabrication process for sports mouth guards closely resembles that of night guards. Using mouth guards is essential for maintaining long-term oral health, as sports-related accidents can result in significant tooth damage.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BRUXISM
Your dentist at Ferdos Family Dental is the most qualified professional to diagnose bruxism, but there are several signs and symptoms you can be vigilant for between your routine appointments. These indicators include:
- Worn, chipped, or flat teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Waking up with facial and jaw muscle soreness
- Neck or facial pain
- Scalloped or uneven tongue edges
- Frequent headaches or TMJ (jaw joint) pain
Identifying the precise cause of teeth clenching and grinding can be challenging, as it may stem from chronic stress, accidents, sleep apnea, or missing teeth. Chronic stress or medical conditions such as sleep apnea can sometimes trigger bruxism.
If you observe any of these signs or symptoms, you may be experiencing teeth grinding. We encourage you to contact our office to schedule an appointment. We will conduct a comprehensive examination in our calming environment to determine if bruxism is the underlying issue. If diagnosed, we will discuss treatment options with you and collaborate to find the most suitable approach.
Mitigating Bruxism & Tooth Grinding
Although over-the-counter “boil and bite” night guards from drugstores can mitigate bruxism and tooth grinding, opting for a custom-made night guard from Ferdos Family Dental offers several advantages. Our custom night guards are crafted using precise molds of your teeth, ensuring superior comfort and fit. We prioritize the alignment of your teeth and jaw during the fitting process to prevent excessive stress on the joint and potential complications. While OTC options may seem economical upfront, custom-made night guards typically endure up to 10 years, proving to be a safer and more cost-effective choice in the long term.
TREATMENT OPTIONS –There are various options available for night guards, such as soft acrylic night guards, hard acrylic night guards, and devices designed for sleep apnea.
- Opting for hard acrylic night guards is the preferred treatment for individuals dealing with chronic bruxism. Not only is it highly compatible and comfortable, but it also boasts the longest durability among available options.
- Soft acrylic night guards are utilized in specific scenarios necessitating temporary relief or for patients unable to tolerate a rigid night guard.
- Sleep apnea devices – Some patients afflicted by sleep apnea may also experience bruxism due to insufficient oxygen flow during sleep. These individuals necessitate a specialized device capable of addressing both mild to moderate sleep apnea and bruxism simultaneously.
FERDOS FAMILY DENTAL
NIGHT GUARDS
Investing in a night guard or sports mouth guard may seem significant, but it guarantees top-notch dental care at Ferdos Family Dental. We prioritize quality, utilizing premium materials and partnering with leading dental labs to ensure optimal results. Moreover, we assist in maximizing your insurance benefits and provide flexible payment options, including 6 months interest-free financing through Care Credit.
If you suspect bruxism or require a night guard, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us!
