Night Guards

Numerous individuals experience bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding. While some may do this consciously during waking hours, the condition becomes more problematic during sleep. Grinding can result in enamel damage, tooth wear, jaw pain, gum irritation, and potentially disruptive noise affecting your sleep partner.

A night guard functions similarly to athletic mouth guards, creating a protective barrier between upper and lower teeth during sleep. These devices are custom-fitted to ensure comfort and allow proper breathing. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication. Night guards are highly durable and typically last up to 10 years.

Additional Prevention Strategies

Beyond wearing a night guard, you can implement lifestyle changes to reduce teeth grinding:

• Train your jaw to remain relaxed rather than clenched
• Avoid chewing gum or non-food objects like pens
• Limit consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as these can increase grinding likelihood

If you suspect nighttime teeth grinding, schedule an appointment for evaluation and treatment options.