Archive for May 2021

Grinding and clenching your teeth in your sleep, a condition known as bruxism, can pose a risk to your oral and overall health. We at Hebron Family Dentistry are proud to offer custom night guards to prevent damage to your teeth and jaws. It’s true. You can enjoy restful sleep free from grinding and pain!

Bruxism Overview

Bruxism is characterized by the repeated grinding or clenching of your teeth, especially during sleep. It usually results from stress, sleep disorders, abnormal bites, crooked or missing teeth, or taking certain medications.

Forcefully rubbing your upper and lower teeth can wear your tooth enamel to the point of exposing the soft pulp containing the nerves and blood vessels. That can weaken your teeth and cause intense pain. Symptoms of bruxism include morning headaches, earaches, tooth sensitivity, stiffness of the shoulders and neck, sleep disruptions, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.

How Can a Night Guard Prevent Damage to Your Teeth?

The most effective way to combat the harmful effects of bruxism is to wear a night guard known as an occlusal guard or a nocturnal bite plate. The oral appliance provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which helps protect your tooth enamel from wear or damage.

What Are the Types of Night Guards?

Stock: These inexpensive oral appliances come ready to wear. However, they often don’t fit well and can be bulky, making breathing and talking difficult.

Boil and Bite: These night guards offer a better fit than their stock counterparts. You will first need to place them in boiling water and then bite into them for a better fit.

Custom-Made Night Guards: Custom night guards, prepared from impressions of your teeth, offer the most reliable protection for your smile. They provide a superior fit, are incredibly comfortable, and do not obstruct your breathing. Your mouthguard will provide cushioning and prevent the upper and lower teeth from grinding against one another. It will also absorb the grinding and clenching forces, preventing wear and damage to your teeth. You will sleep better and wake up without morning headaches or jaw pain, and you will protect your teeth, jaws, and any restorations from damage.

Custom Night Guards Near Me

Visit Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, to learn more about our custom night guards and how they can safeguard your smile. We are all about ensuring our valued patients enjoy healthy teeth for a lifetime! Call us and schedule your appointment today!