It might be very distressing to wake up with a painful jaw or ongoing headaches. People often learn that they are unintentionally clenching or grinding their jaws when they sleep. Dentists frequently advise wearing custom mouthguards near you to ease pain and avoid tooth problems. However, a common question arises: Should you wear a night guard every night?
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits and considerations of wearing a night guard consistently.
What are Night Guards?
A night guard, often called an occlusal splint, is a made-to-measure dental device placed over the teeth while you sleep. It is intended to shield teeth from damage and treat several dental issues brought on by bruxism, jaw disorders, and clenching. Night guards minimize the pressure and friction caused by teeth grinding by creating a barrier between the upper and lower teeth and avoiding direct contact.
How Do Night Guards Work?
Night guards form a barrier between upper and lower teeth to absorb the pressures produced by clenching and grinding. They uniformly disperse the pressure, eliminating excessive tooth wear and lowering jaw muscle strain.
Types of Night Guards
Soft: Soft night guards are made of flexible fabrics and are pleasant to wear, although they might not provide as much protection as other styles. They work well for gentle teeth grinders.
Dual Laminate: These have a robust outer layer for durability and a soft inside layer for comfort. They provide the ideal mix between safety and comfort.
Hard: Hard night guards are strong materials against intense gripping and grinding. Although they could take some getting used to, they are more resilient.
Choosing the Right Night Guard
When choosing a night guard, it’s important to consider your comfort preferences, the severity of your bruxism, and the advice of a dental expert. You can determine the most suitable type and fit for your requirements by consulting a dentist.
Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard Every Night
Protecting Your Teeth
A sports mouthguard near you has several benefits, one of which is that it can act as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This maintains the integrity of your teeth by preventing the excessive wear and tear that bruxism can bring about over time.
Alleviating Jaw Pain
Bruxism frequently causes pain and tight jaw muscles. By reducing the pressure and friction brought on by grinding and clenching, night guards can help reduce this discomfort.
Preventing Dental Damage
A night guard assists in preventing dental issues, including cracked, chipped, and enamel-eroding teeth, with regular usage. You can avoid future expensive dental procedures with night guards.
Improved Sleep Quality
Bruxism can cause sleep disruptions, affecting your overall health. This can be reduced by using a night guard, leading to better quality sleep.
Stress Relief
Night guards can provide psychological comfort and physical protection for your teeth. The anxiety and stress related to bruxism might be lessened by knowing you’re taking precautions to avoid tooth problems.
Considerations for Night Guard Usage
Even while wearing a night guard has clear advantages, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Comfort
It might be difficult for some people to wear a night guard every night. Initial discomfort or bulkiness might be common, but many people eventually adjust.
Maintenance
Night guards require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacterial development and maintain lifespan. The benefits might be reversed if this component is neglected.
Consulting a Professional
Before committing to using a night guard every night, it’s important to speak with a dentist. A dentist near you can evaluate the severity of your bruxism, recommend the best night guard, and provide instructions on how to use it.
Personalized Approach
Night guards are not required to be worn every night by everyone. Occasional use is preferable because bruxism may be temporary or brought on by stress.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Regular Cleaning
Clean your night guard daily with a soft toothbrush, mild soap, or non-abrasive toothpaste. Before placing it back in its case, give it a very thorough rinse in cold water.
Avoid Hot Water
Use only lukewarm water when washing the night guard since hot water might change its structure.
Store Properly
Store your night guard in its protective case when not in use to avoid damage and preserve cleanliness.
Regular Check-ups
Schedule regular appointments with your dentist to ensure your night guard fits properly and protects your teeth.
Adjustment Period
When first wearing a night guard, an adjustment period is common. You might feel pain or have trouble falling asleep when using the device for the first time. Yet, the majority of people eventually adjust and experience relief.
Get Quality Night Guards at Westside Family Dental
Our local dental office prioritizes your oral health and provides the best products for safeguarding your teeth. Our exceptional night guards are expertly designed to offer unsurpassed comfort and protect your teeth from the negative consequences of bruxism. You can rely on our knowledgeable dentist in West Edmonton to ensure that your night guard is perfectly fitted for maximum effectiveness, resulting in a comfortable night’s sleep and long-term dental wellness.
Contact us and schedule your appointment today!