Actively Defending Your Teeth Against Dental Injuries
Many people experience bruxism, a condition in which they grind, clench, or gnash their teeth while asleep, often due to stress. This can lead to significant wear and tear on the teeth over time. A custom night guard is an effective solution that helps prevent damage by providing a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth.
At My Child & I Dental Clinic, we use state-of-the-art technology in our in-house lab to create custom-fitted night guards designed for your unique dental pattern. The process involves taking a digital impression of your teeth and crafting a night guard that fits comfortably and securely, providing maximum protection during sleep.
Benefits of a Night Guard
A night guard, also known as a mouthguard, bite splint, or nocturnal bite plate, offers several benefits:
- Prevents Headaches: Grinding and clenching can often lead to tension headaches, which a night guard can help alleviate.
- Reduces Jaw Pain and Tension: By creating a cushion between the teeth, the guard helps reduce strain on the jaw muscles.
- Decreases Snoring: Night guards can improve airflow, which can help reduce snoring in some individuals.
- Improves Sleep Quality: By minimizing discomfort and tension, a night guard can promote more restful sleep.
- Protects Teeth: Most importantly, a night guard helps protect teeth from excessive wear, chipping, or fracturing caused by grinding.
Difference Between a Sports Guard and a Night Guard
Although night guards and sports guards may seem similar, they serve very different purposes:
- Purpose:
- A night guard is designed to protect the teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching.
- A sports guard shields the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues from injury during physical activities and sports.
- Function:
- Night guards allow saliva to neutralize acids and wash away food particles, helping to prevent cavities and plaque buildup.
- Sports guards, made of thicker materials, are designed for impact protection and don’t typically offer the same benefits for oral hygiene.
- Personalization:
- A night guard is custom-fitted to match your specific bite and dental structure to minimize damage from grinding.
- A sports guard is generally less fitted and focuses on overall protection from external forces.
Who Needs a Night Guard?
If you frequently wake up with headaches, jaw pain, or have been told that you grind your teeth in your sleep, a custom night guard could be the solution. A night guard not only prevents further damage to your teeth but can also help relieve joint pain and improve your quality of sleep.
For individuals who suffer from loud snoring, a night guard may help by increasing airflow and reducing airway blockages, leading to quieter, more restful sleep for both you and your sleeping partner.
A custom-fitted night guard is an essential tool in preserving your oral health and improving your overall well-being.
