Do you find yourself grinding your teeth in your sleep? Are you suffering from any discomfort that your nighttime habit might have caused? If so, then you may be considering a Night Guard. Night Guards are designed to relieve and protect against the physical damage from bruxism (tooth grinding). In this article, we will take a closer look at Night Guards and explain everything you need to know before investing in one.
What is a Night Guard?
A Night Guard is an oral device worn during sleep that acts as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth, providing physical protection against uncomfortable symptoms associated with bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding). Night guards come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Night guards are designed to be comfortable while providing sufficient protection against any potential damage caused by teeth grinding.
Types of Night Guards
There are two main types of Night guards: the hard Night Guard and the soft Night Guard. Hard Night Guards are typically made from hard plastic or acrylic material and provide more rigid protection than their soft counterparts. They may be particularly useful if you suffer from severe bruxism, as they can help alleviate discomfort caused by nighttime jaw clenching. Soft Night Guards, on the other hand, are often made from softer plastics or rubber-like materials, allowing for flexibility that might make them more comfortable for some people to wear in their sleep.
How do Night Guards Work?
Night Guards are designed to protect by creating a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which prevents direct contact between them. This can reduce or alleviate discomfort caused by grinding and clenching teeth at night. Night Guards are also designed to be comfortable so they won’t disrupt your sleep patterns.
Benefits of Night Guards
Night Guards have several benefits, including:
– Protecting teeth from damage due to bruxism, such as cracked or chipped enamel
– Helping relieve headaches, TMJ pain, and other symptoms associated with bruxism
– Reducing wear on the tooth surface caused by grinding or clenching
– Providing more restful sleep without disruption from uncomfortable nighttime teeth grinding
Conclusion
Night Guards can be a great way to protect your teeth from the damage caused by bruxism and provide some relief from associated symptoms. Night Guards come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, so you should have no trouble finding one that is comfortable and suitable for your needs.
A: If you are experiencing discomfort or pain due to nighttime teeth grinding, investing in a Night Guard may be beneficial. Consult with your dentist for further advice on this matter.
A: The lifespan of a Night Guard depends on the type of Night Guard you have and how often it is used. Hard Night Guards typically last longer than soft Night Guards, but both types should be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on use.
A: Night Guards can range in price depending on the type and material. Generally speaking, Night Guards are relatively affordable compared to other dental appliances or treatments.