Nightguards
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is incredibly common. Around 10 to 15% of adults deal with painful teeth grinding while they sleep, and up to 30% of people grind their teeth sometimes.
About Nightguards
Even if the grinding isn’t painful, it can still be damaging. Grinding your teeth can wear them down, increase sensitivity, cause fractures, and lead to jaw pain. Headaches and sore jaw muscles are also common risks of teeth grinding.
Nightguards offer a solution. A custom nightguard is a dental appliance designed to perfectly fit your teeth and protect them from grinding while you sleep. They also help relieve jaw tension associated with teeth grinding.
Types of Nightguards
While you can pick up generic nightguards, getting one custom-made by your dentist ensures an exact, comfortable fit for teeth grinding treatment. Nightguards are typically made from either hard acrylic, silicone, or soft vinyl/EVA, depending on how severe the grinding is. For heavy grinding, hard acrylic offers the best protection.
Benefits of a NIGHTGUARD
It may take some time to get used to using a nightguard, but the benefits are worth the adjustment period. A custom mouthguard can help relieve pain and tension, prevent tooth damage, and protect your existing restorative dental work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a nightguard?
A nightguard is a removable dental device designed to protect your teeth against grinding while you sleep. It fits over your teeth to put a barrier between your upper and lower teeth so you can’t grind them against each other during the night.
You can buy either over-the-counter nightguards or get one custom made. Over-the-counter options are available right away and less expensive, but they’re also less effective. If you’re looking for a long-term solution to bruxism, a custom-fit nightguard made by your dentist is the best option.
Just pop the nightguard in before going to bed and take it out in the morning.
How does a nightguard help with teeth grinding?
The nightguard provides a physical barrier between your two rows of teeth so they can’t grind directly against each other. It also cushions and absorbs the pressure of your teeth grinding and clenching. This protects your teeth and jaw muscles, helping reduce soreness, headaches, and wear on your teeth.
Grinding your teeth wears down the enamel, which increases sensitivity, discoloration, and the risk of developing cavities. Wearing a bruxism nightguard when you sleep stops the enamel erosion from happening because your teeth are no longer in direct contact.
How long does a custom nightguard last?
A custom bruxism nightguard can last for several years if you care for it properly. The exact lifespan of your nightguard will depend on factors like:
- Severity: Heavy grinding wears down your nightguard faster.
- Material: High-quality, dense materials last longer than over-the-counter soft mouthguards.
- Care: Regularly clean your nightguard and keep it dry when not in use to help prevent the material from breaking down.
Bring your nightguard with you to your dental checkups. Your dentist can check its condition and let you know if it’s time for a replacement. Visible damage, poor fit, and discomfort are all signs that you need a new nightguard.
How do I clean and care for a nightguard?
Consistent nightguard cleaning is essential for hygiene and getting as much life out of the guard as possible. Follow these cleaning and care tips:
- Rinse the nightguard off as soon as you take it out.
- Use a soft brush with mild soap or a mouthguard cleaner to get rid of any debris.
- Don’t use hot water, since it can warp the nightguard.
- Let the nightguard air dry completely before you store it away.
- Once a week, do a deep clean by soaking the nightguard in a solution with a denture cleaning tablet.
- Always store the nightguard in a clean, ventilated case.
