Archive for July 2023

Grinding your teeth during the night, a condition known as sleep bruxism, can impact your health and quality of life. Your trusted team at Hebron Family Dentistry is pleased to offer custom-fitted night guards to prevent damage to your teeth and jaws and allow you to enjoy restful, rejuvenating sleep. You can count on us for exceptional care that exceeds your expectations!

Bruxism and Its Impact on Your Health

Bruxism is characterized by repeatedly grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during the night. People with bruxism often have sleep disorders, including snoring or sleep apnea. Chronic teeth grinding can also result from stress, having an abnormal bite, crooked or missing teeth, or taking certain medications. 

Grinding your teeth can weaken them and wear them down to the point of exposing the soft pulp tissues. Symptoms of bruxism include chipped or fractured teeth, tooth pain and sensitivity, tension headaches, interrupted sleep, ear pain, stiffness of the neck and shoulders, and jaw pain, which can lead to a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). 

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a mouthguard known as an occlusal guard or a nocturnal bite plate. When placed in your mouth, it creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, which helps prevent the devastating effects of bruxism on your oral and overall health. 

Over-the-Counter Night Guards

Drug stores carry various types of nightguards, including stock and boil-and-bite. Stock night guards are inexpensive oral appliances that come in one size, ready to wear. They are pre-molded and ready to fit any mouth. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are more customizable. You’ll place them in hot water, bite into them, and mold them into the shape of your teeth. 

Unfortunately, over-the-counter mouthguards don’t usually fit well and can be bulky, making breathing and talking difficult. Moreover, using these types of oral devices can cause your bite to shift because they are not custom-made for your mouth. 

Custom-Fitted Night Guards 

Custom night guards are created by your dentist from impressions of your teeth, offering the most reliable protection. They provide exceptional fit, comfort, and protection without interfering with breathing. You’ll sleep better and wake up without morning headaches or jaw pain. You’ll also protect your teeth, jaws, and restorations from damage. With proper care, your mouthguard will safeguard your smile for several years!

Custom Night Guards Near Me

Visit Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, to learn more about bruxism and its effects on your oral, emotional, and physical health. Dr. Watson will evaluate your unique needs and may recommend a custom night guard to restore your restful sleep free of grinding and pain. Call 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment today!