What is Night Guard?
A night guard is a dental appliance designed to protect teeth from the effects of teeth grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism. Typically worn during sleep, a night guard acts as a cushion, preventing the grinding of teeth against each other. It helps alleviate symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage caused by bruxism, promoting better oral health and a more restful night's sleep. Night guards are custom-fitted to ensure comfort and effectiveness for each individual.
Grinding & Bruxism
Bruxism is characterised by the grinding of the teeth and is typically accompanied by the clenching of the jaw. It is an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most of us at some time in our lives. In most people, bruxism is mild enough not to be a health problem. Whilst bruxism may be day or night activity in most cases it is during sleep that causes the majority of health issues. It can even occur during short naps. Bruxism is one of the most common sleep disorders.
Grinding the teeth can cause wear. The canines and the front incisors wear first. The enamel can be lost exposing the soft dentine underneath which results in sensitivity and pain.
Management of bruxism is based on minimizing the abrasion of tooth surfaces by the wearing of an acrylic dental guard or splint designed to the shape of an individual’s upper or lower teeth from a bite mould. A dental guard is typically worn on a long-term basis during every night’s sleep. Although mouth guards are a first response to bruxism, they do not cure it. Another type of device sometimes given to a bruxist is a repositioning splint. A repositioning splint may look similar to a traditional night guard, but is designed to change the occlusion, or bite, of the patient.
TMJ
TMJ denotes the temporomandibular joint, a pivotal connection between the jaw and the skull. TMJ disorders (TMD) involve issues like jaw pain and clicking sounds. Dental interventions, including custom appliances and lifestyle adjustments, aim to alleviate TMD symptoms and improve jaw function.
Lost Canine Guidance
Grinding and Occlusal Splint
Benefits of Night Guard
Teeth Protection
Night guards serve as a protective barrier, preventing teeth grinding and clenching during sleep, thereby reducing the risk of tooth damage, fractures, and wear.
Symptom Alleviation
Night guards help alleviate symptoms associated with Bruxism, such as jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort, promoting better oral health and a more restful night’s sleep.
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