Do you struggle with grinding your teeth every night? Perhaps you experience intense jaw tension that keeps you up until the early hours of the morning? It may be time to ask your dentist if you should wear a night guard.
A night guard, also known as a dental guard, mouth guard, or nocturnal bite plate, serves as a barrier between your teeth. There are several reasons why a dentist would recommend wearing one, and it’s important to follow the right instructions.
So, when should you wear a night guard, and what are the best practices? Boynton Beach’s favorite dentist shares expert insights.
Reasons To Wear A Night Guard
In most instances, a dentist will recommend a night guard if you struggle with clenching your teeth or grinding your teeth during the night. The mouth guard serves as a barrier to prevent excessive wear on your pearly whites and provide relief from cranial pain.
A night guard prevents the following symptoms:
- Tension and jaw pain
- Chronic headaches
- Tooth damage
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Snoring
In some instances, night guards are needed to alleviate the symptoms of certain conditions, such as the following.
Bruxism
Bruxism is a common dental issue and involves grinding or clenching your teeth and jaws, creating excessive tension and wearing down the teeth. In most instances, bruxism occurs during sleep or times of stress. While it most commonly occurs in young children, it is also more prevalent among naturally competitive and hyperactive people, and when under intense stress.
Excessive tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and psychiatric medication can also increase the risk of bruxism, as well as other health conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease.
Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome
Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) affects the jaw joints and the surrounding muscles and ligaments. TMJ is caused by several factors including trauma, an improper bite, and arthritis. When left untreated, TMJ leads to a tender jaw, headaches, and overall facial pain.
Best Practices For Wearing A Night Guard
Bruxism continues to be a struggle for a large percentage of the population, with the numbers increasing during the stress of the pandemic. Sleeping with a night guard is a small adjustment that can make a big difference.
Even so, there are a few best practices to make the most of wearing a night guard.
Listen To Your Dentist’s Instructions
If your dentist recommends a mouth guard, then it’s important to wear it. Failing to wear a night guard can lead to serious issues down the line, causing your teeth to crack or chip. By serving as a protective layer, you can prevent dental filling and chronic pain.
Invest In A Customized Mouth Guard
Comfort is key when wearing a nightguard. A customized mouth guard ensures that the dental device fits snug so that you can sleep soundly – without grinding your teeth. While it may cost a little bit more upfront, it could save you money in the long run.
Keep Your Night Guard Clean
It’s important to maintain proper hygiene practices and keep your mouth guard clean. If you don’t keep it clean, then you risk harmful bacteria from entering your mouth. Luckily, keeping your mouth guard clean is easy.
- Rinse your mouth guard every night
- Lightly brush the mouth guard with a toothbrush
- Dry the mouth guard completely before putting it in the case
- Keep the mouth guard’s case clean
Keep Your Dentist Updated
Your dentist would’ve recommended the use of a night guard for a reason, and it’s important to keep them up to date on your comfort and progress. One way to keep your dentist up to date is by bringing your mouth guard with you to your dentist appointment.
Healthy Daily Habits
There are a few extra steps that you can take to reduce the chances of clenching your teeth at night.
- Stop smoking, especially close to bedtime
- Reduce consumption of alcohol and caffeine
- Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, including meditation or reading a good book
Visit Your Dentist Today
At Eriks Dental Group, we pride ourselves on being the official sponsor of smiles, and nothing contributes to a smile like a restful night’s sleep. Request your appointment with us today, and get a comfortable mouthguard fitted during your routine checkup.
Contact us at 561-733-4004 to chat with our friendly team and follow Eriks Dental Group on Facebook for regular dental tips.