If you grind and clench your teeth at night, or have a TMJ disorder, one of the options our dentist may recommend to protect your smile is a night guard.
What Is A Night Guard?
Night guards are custom-made oral appliances designed to protect your teeth from damage while you sleep. They are commonly recommended to manage bruxism (grinding teeth) and are made to fit your mouth comfortably so you can get the rest you need as well as maintain better oral health. Night guards work by forming a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from touching and redistributing the forces of clenching and grinding so that they do not cause damage to your teeth.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition characterized by chronic teeth grinding and clenching. It can occur at any time, though it is most common at night while you are asleep, making night guards an effective solution.
Common signs of bruxism include:
- Chronic jaw, facial and ear pain
- A tired or tight feeling in the jaw when waking up
- Frequent tension headaches and migraines
- Excessively worn teeth, exposing the inner layers of the tooth
- Chipped, flattened or cracked teeth
- Indentations on the side of the tongue
- Increased tooth sensitivity
If you notice any of these signs, please speak with our dentist and team to receive a diagnosis and discuss whether or not a night guard will be beneficial for you.
Schedule An Appointment
To find out more about night guards in New City, New York, call Rockland Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics today at 845-634-8900.