Night Guard
What Is A Night Guard?
If you often wake up with a sore jaw, tension headaches, or notice increased tooth sensitivity, you might be experiencing the effects of teeth grinding or clenching during sleep, medically known as Bruxism. Bruxism is a common dental issue that affects many individuals, often unknowingly. To protect your teeth and alleviate discomfort caused by this condition, dental professionals may recommend the use of a “Night Guard.”
A Dental Night Guard is a custom-made oral appliance designed to be worn during sleep. Its primary purpose is to act as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding or clenching against each other. This protective device helps reduce the potential damage to your teeth, alleviate the strain on your jaw muscles, and mitigate the discomfort associated with bruxism.
Before you deciding on whether Night Guard are right for you, there are some things you should know:
- Who Needs A Night Guard?
- What Are The Advantages Of A Night Guard?
- What Are The Different Types Of Night Guards?
- How Much Does A Night Guard Cost?
- What Are The Steps In The Night Guard Procedure?
- Can I Have A Night Guard If I Am Pregnant?
- How Long Does A Night Guard Last?
- What Are Common Problems with A Night Guard?
If you have any further questions about Night Guard or other dental services offered at Atlas Dental, please contact us.
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Who Needs A Night Guard?
Night guards are recommended for individuals who suffer from bruxism, a condition characterized by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. While bruxism can affect people of all ages, it is more prevalent among adults. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, you may benefit from using a night guard:
- Teeth Grinding: If you notice that your teeth are worn down, flattened, fractured, or chipped, it could be a sign of teeth grinding. Over time, the repeated pressure and friction from grinding can cause significant damage to the tooth enamel.
- Jaw Pain and Tension Headaches: Bruxism often leads to jaw pain, tightness, or discomfort. This can manifest as soreness in the jaw muscles or even headaches, especially upon waking up in the morning.
- Tooth Sensitivity: The enamel erosion caused by teeth grinding can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, making your teeth more susceptible to pain or discomfort when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
- Disturbed Sleep Patterns: Bruxism can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to insufficient rest and daytime fatigue. If you wake up feeling tired despite getting an adequate amount of sleep, bruxism might be a contributing factor.
- Audible Teeth Grinding: Some people with bruxism may grind their teeth loudly enough for their sleep partners to hear.
- Facial Pain or Earaches: Bruxism-related jaw clenching can cause pain in the face or even radiate to the ears.
- Tightness in Neck and Shoulder Muscles: Bruxism can result in muscle tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulders due to the connected jaw muscles.
If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect that you might be grinding your teeth during sleep, it is essential to consult with a dental professional. They can assess your condition, diagnose bruxism, and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include the use of a night guard. Remember, early intervention can prevent further damage to your teeth and improve your overall oral health and well-being. If you have further questions about Night Guards, please contact us.
What Are The Advantages Of A Night Guard?
Using a night guard can offer several advantages for individuals suffering from bruxism or teeth grinding. These custom-made oral appliances are designed to address the issues associated with teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. Here are some of the key benefits of using a night guard:
- Teeth Protection: The primary purpose of a night guard is to create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. By providing a cushioning effect, the night guard absorbs the force of grinding and clenching, thereby preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact. This helps to protect the tooth enamel from wear and damage, reducing the risk of fractures, chips, and tooth sensitivity.
- Reduces Jaw Pain and Discomfort: Night guards help to alleviate jaw pain and discomfort caused by bruxism. By promoting a more relaxed jaw position during sleep, the night guard reduces the strain on the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
- Prevents Headaches: Bruxism-induced teeth grinding can lead to tension headaches and migraines. By preventing excessive grinding and clenching, a night guard can reduce the frequency and intensity of these headaches.
- Improves Sleep Quality: Bruxism can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue. By mitigating the effects of teeth grinding, a night guard can contribute to better sleep, leaving you feeling more rested and energized.
- Protects Dental Restorations: If you have dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, a night guard can help protect them from damage caused by bruxism. It acts as a cushion between your natural teeth and the restorations, prolonging their lifespan.
- Minimizes TMJ Disorders: Bruxism is often associated with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ). A night guard can help reduce the pressure and tension on the TMJ, providing relief for individuals experiencing TMJ-related symptoms.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to the potential cost of repairing or replacing damaged teeth, a night guard is a relatively affordable and proactive approach to address bruxism.
- Custom Fit: Night guards are custom-made to fit your mouth comfortably and securely. They are designed based on dental impressions, ensuring an optimal fit that won’t interfere with your sleep or cause discomfort.
- Easy to Use and Maintain: Night guards are simple to use; you only need to wear them during sleep. They are also easy to clean and maintain, promoting good oral hygiene.
- Non-Invasive: Night guards are non-invasive and do not involve any surgical procedures. They are a conservative treatment option that can be effective for many individuals with bruxism.
If you suspect you have bruxism or have been diagnosed with this condition, consider discussing the benefits of a night guard with your dental professional. They can help determine if a night guard is suitable for your specific needs and create a customized device to provide optimal protection and comfort. For more information about dental night guards, please contact us.
What Are The Different Types Of Night Guards?
Night guards come in various types, and the choice of the right one depends on your individual needs, the severity of your bruxism, and your dentist’s recommendation. Here are the different types of night guards commonly used:
- Soft Night Guards: Soft night guards, also known as “boil-and-bite” night guards, are made from a pliable material that softens when immersed in hot water. After softening, you place the night guard in your mouth and bite down gently to create a customized fit. These guards are readily available over-the-counter and are more affordable than custom-fitted options. However, they may not offer the same level of protection and durability as custom night guards.
- Dual-Laminate Night Guards: Dual-laminate night guards provide a combination of soft and hard materials. They have a soft inner layer for comfort and a hard outer layer for durability and protection. The soft layer conforms to your teeth, while the hard layer resists wear from teeth grinding. These guards are often used for individuals with moderate to severe bruxism.
- Hard Acrylic Night Guards: Hard acrylic night guards are custom-made by dental professionals. They are created from a rigid, durable material that provides excellent protection against teeth grinding and clenching. These guards offer a precise fit and are ideal for individuals with severe bruxism or those who prefer a more robust solution.
- NTI Night Guard: Specifically approved by the FDA, the Nociceptive Trigeminal Inhibition Tension Suppression System (NTI-tss) is a unique night guard. Unlike traditional options, the NTI device is smaller, fitting over the front teeth to prevent contact between upper and lower teeth. Tailored for managing bruxism, migraines, and TMJ disorders, the NTI Night Guard provides targeted protection.
It’s important to note that while over-the-counter night guards may offer a quick and affordable solution, custom-fitted night guards are generally recommended for the best results. Custom night guards ensure optimal fit, comfort, and protection, as they are designed to suit your specific needs and provide maximum coverage. For more information about the different type of night guards available, please contact us.
Cost of Night Guard
Our Dental Night Guards protect your teeth from bruxism and teeth clenching and are made using the latest optical 3D scanning and 3D printing technology. A common question is how much a dental night guard costs. For a typical mouth guard, you can expect to pay $399 plus Lab Fee ($200). The codes relevant to night guards in the Ontario Dental Association’s Suggested Fee Guide appear as follows:
- 14611 – Maxillary Appliance: $399 + Dental Lab Fee ($200)
- 14612 – Mandibular Appliance: $399 + Dental Lab Fee ($200)
Night Guards are considered a basic service under all dental insurance plans and should be covered to your maximum insurable limit, but be sure to find out from your dental insurance plan provider how much you are eligible for before going ahead with dental treatment. Our fees are consistent with the ODA Fee Guide.
For patients without dental insurance, Atlas Dental is pleased to offer dental financing through Dentalcard. Affordable payment plans start at 7.95% for terms of 6 months to 6 years. To learn more about Dentalcard dental treatment financing, follow this link.
What Are The Steps In The Night Guard Procedure?
The night guard procedure typically involves several steps to ensure that you receive a custom-fitted oral appliance that suits your specific needs. Here is an overview of the usual steps involved in the night guard procedure:
- Consultation and Examination: The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dental professional. During this appointment, you will discuss any symptoms you are experiencing, such as teeth grinding, jaw pain, or headaches. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw to assess the extent of the issue and determine if a night guard is the appropriate solution for you. Please review these pre-operative instructions before your visit.
- Diagnosis of Bruxism: Based on your symptoms and the examination results, your dentist will diagnose bruxism and confirm whether you are a suitable candidate for a night guard.
- Taking Impressions: If a night guard is recommended, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth using dental putty or an intraoral computer scanner. These impressions will serve as the basis for creating a custom-fitted night guard that perfectly matches the shape and alignment of your teeth.
- Choosing the Type of Night Guard: There are different types of night guards available, and your dentist will help you choose the one that best suits your needs. Typically, there are three types of night guards: soft night guards, dual-laminate night guards (a combination of soft and hard materials), and hard acrylic night guards.
- Custom Night Guard Fabrication: Using the impressions as a guide, a dental laboratory will create your custom night guard. The fabrication process ensures that the night guard fits snugly and comfortably in your mouth.
- Fitting and Adjustments: Once the night guard is ready, you will return to your dentist’s office for a fitting. Your dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the night guard sits properly and does not cause any discomfort.
- Instructions for Use and Care: Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions on how to use and care for your night guard. This includes information on when to wear the night guard (typically during sleep), how to clean it, and how to store it properly when not in use.
- Follow-Up Visits: Depending on your specific situation, your dentist may schedule follow-up visits to assess the night guard’s effectiveness and make further adjustments if needed. Please review these post-insertion instructions to ensure proper care for your new dental night guard.
Remember that a custom-fitted night guard is essential for its effectiveness and comfort. Over-the-counter night guards may not provide the same level of protection and may not fit properly, potentially leading to further issues. If you have further questions about the Night Guard fabrication procedure, please contact us.
Can I Have A Night Guard If I Am Pregnant?
If you are pregnant and experiencing bruxism (teeth grinding or teeth clenching), it is essential to discuss your concerns with both your dentist and obstetrician before getting a night guard. While night guards are generally safe for most individuals, including pregnant women, it is essential to consider any potential risks and benefits specific to your pregnancy.
Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Consultation: Before getting a night guard, schedule a consultation with your dentist. Inform them about your pregnancy, and discuss your bruxism symptoms and concerns. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if a night guard is appropriate for you during pregnancy.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy is associated with hormonal changes that can affect oral health. Some women may experience an increase in teeth grinding during pregnancy due to these hormonal fluctuations.
- Safe Materials: Ensure that the night guard materials used are safe for pregnant women. Typically, dental professionals use biocompatible materials, but it’s essential to confirm this with your dentist.
- Alternative Solutions: Depending on the severity of your bruxism and your pregnancy status, your dentist may recommend alternative solutions or conservative measures to manage teeth grinding during pregnancy.
- Stress Management: Bruxism can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety, which are not uncommon during pregnancy. Your healthcare providers may recommend stress-reduction techniques to help alleviate teeth grinding.
- Consideration of Medical History: Your obstetrician and dentist need to consider your medical history and any pregnancy-related complications when deciding on the best course of action.
- Frequent Evaluation: If you and your healthcare providers decide that a night guard is suitable during pregnancy, regular follow-up visits with your dentist may be necessary to monitor your oral health and make any adjustments to the night guard as needed.
Remember that pregnancy can impact various aspects of your health, including your oral health. Therefore, open communication between your dentist and obstetrician is vital to ensure that any treatment, including the use of a night guard, is safe and appropriate for you and your baby.
As with any medical or dental decision during pregnancy, it’s crucial to prioritize the health of both you and your child. If you have further questions about wearing a Night Guard during pregnancy, please contact us.
How Long Does A Night Guard Last?
The lifespan of a night guard can vary depending on several factors, including the material it is made from, the severity of your bruxism, and how well you take care of the appliance. On average, a well-maintained night guard can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years. Here are some factors that can influence the longevity of a night guard:
- Material: Night guards are typically made from different materials, such as soft plastics, dual-laminate (soft and hard layers), or hard acrylic. Soft night guards may wear down faster compared to hard acrylic ones, especially if you have severe teeth grinding.
- Bruxism Severity: The frequency and intensity of your teeth grinding or clenching can impact the wear and tear on the night guard. Individuals with more aggressive bruxism may experience faster deterioration of the appliance.
- Proper Fit: A custom-fitted night guard that accurately matches your teeth alignment will likely last longer than an ill-fitting one. An appropriate fit ensures that the night guard can effectively absorb the forces of grinding without excessive stress on specific areas.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Regularly cleaning and maintaining your night guard are essential for its longevity. Follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care, which usually involves rinsing it with water, using a non-abrasive toothbrush and toothpaste, or soaking it in a denture cleaning solution.
- Avoiding High Temperatures: Avoid exposing your night guard to high temperatures, as it can distort its shape. Never use hot or boiling water to clean or soak the night guard.
- Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your night guard, as they can damage the material.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Attend regular dental check-ups, during which your dentist can assess the condition of your night guard and make recommendations for replacement if needed.
Keep in mind that over time, wear and tear are normal for any oral appliance. If you notice signs of wear, such as cracks, thinning, or a change in the fit, contact your dentist for an evaluation. Your dentist will determine if your night guard needs adjustments, repairs, or replacement. If you have further questions about Night Guards, please contact us.
What Are Common Problems with A Night Guard?
While night guards are effective in managing bruxism and protecting teeth, they may encounter some common problems over time. Being aware of these issues can help you address them promptly and ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your night guard. Here are some common problems with night guards:
- Discomfort and Poor Fit: If your night guard is not custom-fitted properly, it may cause discomfort or interfere with your sleep. An ill-fitting night guard can also increase the risk of mouth sores or pressure on certain teeth.
- Increased Salivation: Some individuals may experience increased salivation initially when using a night guard. While this typically subsides after a short adjustment period, it can be bothersome for some people.
- Difficulty Speaking: A bulky or improperly fitted night guard can make speaking difficult or muffled. It may take time to adapt to speaking with the night guard in place.
- Bruxism Persistence: In some cases, severe bruxism may cause excessive wear on the night guard, leading to a shorter lifespan. If you continue to experience symptoms despite using the night guard, consult your dentist to assess the fit and effectiveness.
- Grinding Sounds: Some night guards may create a grinding sound if the upper and lower parts do not align smoothly. This can be bothersome for the wearer and their sleep partner.
- Clenching Tendency: While night guards are designed to prevent grinding, some individuals may unconsciously clench their teeth even with the appliance in place.
- Cleaning and Maintenance Issues: Failing to clean and maintain the night guard properly can lead to an accumulation of bacteria, odors, and stains.
- Material Deterioration: Night guards made from softer materials may wear down faster over time, potentially leading to a need for replacement sooner.
- Bulky Feeling: Some users may find the presence of a night guard in their mouth uncomfortable, especially during the initial adjustment period.
- Children’s Compliance: Night guards for children may pose challenges due to compliance issues, as some children may be resistant to wearing them.
To address these problems, it’s essential to maintain regular communication with your dentist. If you experience any discomfort, persistent symptoms, or notice signs of wear on your night guard, schedule a follow-up appointment. Your dentist can evaluate the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and provide guidance on proper care. If you have further questions about Night Guards, please contact us.
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