Are you tired of waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth? If so, night guards might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Keep reading to uncover the surprising benefits of adding night guards to your dental care routine. Your smile and peace of mind will appreciate it.
What are night guards?
Night guards are custom-fit oral appliances worn during sleep to protect teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism. Made from durable and comfortable materials, they act as a barrier against teeth grinding and clenching, distributing pressure evenly to prevent tooth wear and ease strain on the jaw. Created from impressions of your teeth, these guards provide a snug fit tailored to your mouth, ensuring optimal protection throughout the night.
Types of night guards
When it comes to choosing a night guard, there are various options available, each with its own advantages and considerations. The type of night guard that’s right for you depends on factors such as the severity of your bruxism, personal preference, and budget. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of night guards.
- Soft night guards: These are made of a pliable material that provides cushioning for your teeth. Soft night guards are comfortable to wear and can be suitable for mild to moderate bruxism. However, they may not be as durable as other types and may need to be replaced more frequently.
- Hard night guards: These are made of a rigid material, such as acrylic, and offer maximum protection for your teeth. Hard night guards are more durable and long-lasting than soft night guards. They are recommended for severe bruxism cases or for individuals who tend to grind their teeth forcefully.
- Dual-laminate night guards: These night guards combine the benefits of both soft and hard materials. They have a soft inner layer for comfort and a hard outer layer for enhanced protection. Dual-laminate night guards are suitable for moderate to severe bruxism and offer a balance between durability and comfort.
- Custom-fitted night guards: These night guards are made specifically for your mouth and provide the best fit and protection. A dentist or dental laboratory creates custom-fitted night guards based on impressions of your teeth. While they may be more expensive than over-the-counter options, custom-fitted night guards offer superior comfort and effectiveness.
Benefits of wearing night guards
The benefits of night guards include:
- Protection against tooth wear: Night guards distribute the force from teeth grinding, reducing enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and damage, thus maintaining a healthy smile.
- Alleviation of jaw pain: By acting as a cushion for the jaw, night guards decrease strain on jaw muscles and joints, easing jaw pain, facial muscle tension, and TMJ disorder symptoms.
- Reduction in headaches: Night guards minimize the impact of teeth grinding on jaw muscles, significantly decreasing the frequency and intensity of headaches associated with bruxism.
- Improved sleep quality: Night guards dampen teeth grinding noises, promoting a more peaceful night’s sleep for both the wearer and their partner, leading to feeling more rested and rejuvenated upon waking.
- Overall well-being: Night guards protect teeth, alleviate jaw pain, reduce headaches, and improve sleep quality, enhancing overall well-being, productivity, and happiness.
Conclusion
Night guards are vital for protecting teeth and boosting overall well-being. They help with jaw pain, headaches, and prevent tooth damage caused by teeth grinding. If you struggle with teeth grinding or want to protect your teeth, ask your dentist about night guards. With the right one, you can wake up pain-free and keep your smile healthy. Call Sunrise Village Dental at (604) 253-2433 to book an appointment and start your journey to a healthier smile today.