Protect Your Smile with a Custom-made Mouthguard
If you wake up with a sore jaw or headache, you could be one of the millions of patients suffering from bruxism — a condition where you involuntarily clench and grind your teeth at night or during a nap. Since bruxism can cause numerous undesirable symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately if you notice signs. At Surrey Place Dental Group in Surrey, British Columbia, we help diagnose bruxism and recommend a custom-made nightguard to protect your smile against the dangers of grinding and clenching teeth.
What is bruxism?
As mentioned, bruxism is the involuntary grinding and clenching of teeth. There are two types of bruxism, namely:
- Awake bruxism: It’s a condition where patients clench and grind their teeth during the day. This bruxism has been tied to emotional issues. Tiredness, anxiety, and stress can lead to awake bruxism, as does deep concentration.
- Sleep bruxism: It happens when you are asleep, and you rarely know it’s happening unless you notice dental damage or your bed partner notices your teeth clenching.
Teeth grinding isn’t a condition to ignore because it leads to sore muscles, headaches, dental damage, and TMJ-related pain. If you notice signs of bruxism, please book an appointment with our team of dentists for diagnosis and treatment.
Custom-made nightguards for grinding teeth
When we talk about mouthguards, you may think about athletic dental guards you have seen in sports. Well, it’s something close to that, but mouthguards are custom-designed, thin plastic guards that only fit your teeth. They are commonly referred to as “nightguards” because they are typically worn at night when most patients grind their teeth.
While you can consider store-bought nightguards, our dentists recommend custom-made nightguards. These are made after taking custom molds or scans of your dentition, which results in an appliance that fits well. Besides, our bite guards are created from medical-grade materials for your safety and comfort.
Benefits of mouthguards
If you have bruxism, a mouthguard can effectively reduce your pain. Wearing a nightguard consistently can:
- Prevent dental damage
- Reduce headaches, jaw pain, and muscle strain
- Avoid the deterioration of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
- Constrain the bruxism pattern
Keep your smile safe with a custom-fitted mouth guard, waking up with a sore jaw or headache. It could be a sign of bruxism, a condition where you clench or grind your teeth often during sleep. If left untreated, it can result in permanent dental damage. What is bruxism? Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of your teeth, usually caused by stress, anxiety, or deep concentration. It can happen while you’re awake or asleep, and often leads to jaw pain, headaches, worn teeth, or TMJ discomfort. If you notice these signs, our dental team at Surrey Place Dental Group can help with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Custom-made nightguards for teeth grinding nightguards are thin, custom-fitted appliances worn while you sleep to prevent teeth grinding. Unlike store-bought options, our custom-made night guards are crafted using precise digital scans and high-quality materials For the perfect fit, maximum comfort, and long-lasting protection, regular use of nightguard can help you prevent tooth wear and damage, reduce headaches, jaw pain, and muscle tension. Protect the temporal mandibular joint, minimize grinding over time. Prevention is the best protection for your smile. Invest in a custom mouth guard today and keep your teeth healthy for years to come. Call (604) 969-4212 to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Night Guards
What exactly is a night guard, and how does it protect my teeth from the forces of grinding and clenching?
A night guard is a custom-made oral appliance that fits over your upper or lower teeth while you sleep. It acts as a cushion between your teeth to prevent the damage caused by clenching and grinding, also known as bruxism. Without protection, grinding’s continuous pressure and friction can erode tooth enamel, result in chips or cracks, and even cause issues with the jaw.
How will I know if I need a night guard?
Common signs that you may benefit from a night guard include waking up with headaches, facial soreness, jaw stiffness, or tooth sensitivity. Some notice clicking or popping in the jaw or chipped and flattened teeth. If a partner hears you grinding at night, that’s also a strong indicator. During a dental exam, your dentist can check for visible signs of wear and recommend a night guard if needed.
What’s the difference between a custom night guard and an over-the-counter one?
While store-bought guards may be less expensive, they are not tailored to your bite. Custom night guards are professionally crafted using impressions of your teeth, which means they fit more comfortably, stay in place during sleep, and provide more effective protection. Over-the-counter options may be bulky, uncomfortable, or even cause more harm than good if they don’t align with your bite properly.
Can a night guard relieve jaw pain or TMJ discomfort?
Yes, in many cases, a night guard can help reduce tension and pain in the jaw caused by clenching or grinding. The device relieves pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and relaxes the jaw muscles. Although not a cure for TMJ disorders, night guards are often a key part of a broader treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage.
How long should I wear my night guard each night?
Most patients are advised to wear their night guards every night while sleeping. Consistency is essential to protecting teeth and jaws from ongoing stress. Some people may only need it during periods of high stress or when symptoms flare up. Your dentist will assess your situation and provide guidance based on your grinding patterns and oral health history.
How do I keep my night guard clean and in good condition?
When you remove your night guard in the morning, you should immediately rinse it with water. It can be carefully cleaned with a soft toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, or gentle soap. Steer clear of hot water since it can distort the material. Let it dry completely before placing it in its protective case. Cleaning your night guard regularly prevents plaque buildup, odor, and potential bacterial growth.
How long does a custom-made night guard last before needing replacement?
The lifespan of a night guard depends on the material and how severely you grind your teeth. Soft night guards may last up to a year, while hard acrylic versions can last up to five years with proper care.Â
Is wearing a night guard worth the cost compared to repairing damage later?
The upfront investment in a custom night guard can prevent far more costly procedures down the line, such as fillings, crowns, root canals, or even tooth replacement. It also protects your jaw joints and muscles, reducing the risk of chronic pain or dysfunction.Â
Are these incentives not reasons enough? If not, think about the cost of restoring damaged teeth or even the pain, time, and resources used to treat TMJ disorder. Prevention is always the most cost-effective way to protect your smile, so do yourself a favour by investing in a mouthguard. Please dial (604) 969-4212 to book an appointment with Surrey Place Dental Group for a mouthguard for grinding teeth.
