What Are Night Guards?

Night guards are custom-fitted night appliances worn during sleep to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching forces. Made from durable materials, they create a protective layer that absorbs pressure and prevents enamel wear. This dental guard treatment addresses bruxism effectively, reducing the risks of tooth damage and jaw discomfort. Our dentists craft each mouth guard to match individual bite patterns for maximum comfort and better protection.

Guards for teeth grinding serve as an effective solution for those who clench and grind their teeth at night. Unlike store-bought options, custom-fitted night guards provide a comfortable fit that encourages consistent wear and delivers superior protection.

Bruxism and Its Effects

Bruxism impacts many people, often without their knowledge until symptoms appear. This condition generates intense pressure on teeth during sleep, far beyond normal chewing forces. Causes include stress, sleep issues, medications, and bite misalignments. Some develop it from daily pressures, while others inherit a tendency to grind their teeth.

Left untreated, bruxism leads to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and potential fractures. It also strains jaw joints, causing pain and TMJ disorders. Over time, this affects eating, speaking, and sleep quality. People grind their teeth with forces up to six times stronger than normal chewing, which can damage even the strongest dental work.

Nighttime teeth grinding can result in loose teeth, loose fillings, and damage to dental implants. The condition also contributes to gum disease when left untreated, as the excessive forces affect the supporting structures around your teeth. Addressing it early prevents costly repairs, improves daily comfort, and protects your dental health.

Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

Bruxism often goes unnoticed since it happens at night. Watch for these indicators:

Physical Symptoms

• Morning Jaw Pain: Soreness in jaw muscles or difficulty opening the mouth signals overnight clenching. This strain builds up, leading to persistent discomfort.
• Chronic Headaches: Tension headaches upon waking stem from jaw and neck muscle overuse. They can disrupt daily activities if ignored.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Worn enamel exposes inner layers, causing reactions to temperatures or sweets. This increases decay risks over time.
• Ear Pain: Aching ears without infection often result from referred jaw tension. It mimics other issues but ties back to grinding.

Dental Signs

• Worn Tooth Surfaces: Flattened or chipped teeth show grinding wear. Chewing surfaces suffer most from repeated force.
• Loose or Damaged Restorations: Fillings or crowns crack under pressure. This leads to frequent dental fixes.
• Gum Recession: Gums pull away from teeth due to stress on supporting structures. Exposed roots heighten sensitivity.
• Tooth Mobility: Teeth shift or loosen from bone and ligament damage. This signals advanced bruxism effects.

Benefits of Custom Night Guards

Custom night guards outperform generic options in protection and comfort. Here are key advantages:

• Full Tooth Protection: Guards prevent direct contact, stopping wear and fractures. They distribute forces evenly across teeth.
• Muscle Relaxation: Proper alignment reduces jaw tension. This lessens soreness and promotes restful sleep.
• TMJ Symptom Relief: Guards ease joint stress, reducing clicking and pain. They support natural jaw movement.
• Dental Work Preservation: Existing restorations stay intact under guard protection. This avoids expensive replacements.
• Better Sleep Quality: Less grinding means quieter nights for everyone. It improves overall rest and energy levels.
• Cost Savings Long-Term: Preventing damage is cheaper than treating it. Guards extend tooth lifespan significantly.
• Personalized Comfort: Custom fits encourage nightly use. They feel natural and stay in place.

Who Benefits from Night Guards?

Night guards help various patients manage bruxism effectively. Consider them if you fit these categories:

• Diagnosed Bruxism Sufferers: Those confirmed with grinding need immediate protection. Guards halt ongoing damage.
• Morning Symptom Experiencers: Regular jaw pain or headaches point to nighttime issues. Guards provide quick relief.
• Dental Damage Victims: Worn or chipped teeth require intervention. Guards prevent further deterioration.
• Stress-Affected Individuals: High stress often triggers clenching. Guards mitigate physical effects.
• TMJ Disorder Patients: Joint pain worsens with grinding. Guards offer targeted support.
• Restoration Protectors: Patients with crowns or implants safeguard investments. Guards extend their durability.

Process of Getting a Custom Night Guard at Citrus Smiles Dental Studio

The treatment procedure is fairly easy and requires two appointments. During your initial visit, you will have a consultation with our dental practitioner. We will discuss the severity of your symptoms and examine your oral cavity to see if your teeth have been damaged from bruxism. 

To create a custom-fit night guard, our team will record your dental impressions and send them to a lab. Our skilled technicians use these impressions to design an appliance that rests comfortably in your mouth. Since the appliance is to be worn at night, we ensure that it does not cause any discomfort during sleep.

When it is ready, we will test its fit in your oral cavity. Our dentist will guide you on how to use and maintain this appliance. We may also schedule a follow-up appointment to track the progress of this treatment. 

Night Guard Care and Maintenance

Proper care extends the life of your night guard and keeps it hygienic. Follow these guidelines:

• Daily Cleaning: Rinse your guard with cool water after each use and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to remove any buildup.
• Storage Practices: Store your guard in a clean, ventilated case when you’re not wearing it, and allow it to air dry completely before closing the case to prevent bacterial growth.
• Regular Inspections: Check your guard monthly for signs of wear, cracks, or thinning. If you notice any damage, contact our office so we can evaluate whether it needs replacement.
• Professional Reviews: Bring your night guard to your regular dental checkups so we can professionally clean it and assess its condition.

Lifestyle Modifications for Bruxism Management

While night guards provide essential protection, addressing the underlying causes of bruxism can reduce grinding intensity. Consider these adjustments:

• Stress Reduction: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your daily routine. Stress is a primary trigger for teeth grinding, and managing it can make a noticeable difference.
• Sleep Routine: Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a calm bedtime environment. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet to promote more restful sleep and reduce nighttime clenching.
• Diet Tweaks: Limit caffeine and alcohol in the evening, as both can interfere with sleep quality and increase muscle tension. Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime, which can disrupt sleep.
• Jaw Exercises: Practice gentle jaw stretches and massage the area to relieve built-up tension throughout the day.