What Are the Pros and Cons of Mouthwash?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile. Alongside brushing and flossing, many people turn to mouthwash for extra protection against cavities and gum disease. If you would like to learn more about preventative care and how to keep your oral health in tip-top shape, our dedicated team at Hebron Family Dentistry is here to help. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. 

What Are the Pros of Mouthwash?

Mouthwash offers many benefits, including the following:

  • Kills Bacteria: Mouthwash contains antimicrobial ingredients that can help kill bacteria in your mouth. This is particularly useful for reaching areas that brushing and flossing alone may miss, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease.
  • Prevent Cavities: Some mouthwashes contain fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Using a fluoride mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay, especially for people who do not drink fluoridated water.
  • Freshens Your Breath: One of the most immediate benefits of using mouthwash is fresher breath. Mouthwash often contains ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus, which can leave your mouth feeling clean and your breath smelling minty fresh.
  • Convenient: Mouthwash is easy to use and can be a convenient addition to your oral hygiene routine. It takes just a minute or two to swish around your mouth, making it suitable for busy lifestyles or those who have difficulty brushing and flossing thoroughly.

What Are the Cons of Mouthwash?

Here’s a look at some of the cons of mouthwash: 

  • Alcohol Content: Many traditional mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can cause dry mouth and irritate your gums. For individuals with sensitive gums or a history of oral health problems, alcohol-free alternatives may be a better choice.
  • Masking Symptoms: While mouthwash can freshen breath temporarily, it may only mask underlying problems such as gum disease or tooth decay. Relying solely on mouthwash without addressing the root causes of bad breath or dental problems could lead to more significant issues down the road.
  • Potential Side Effects: Some people may experience side effects from using mouthwash, such as allergic reactions or irritation of the mouth tissues. It’s essential to read the label carefully and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
  • Not a Substitute for Oral Hygiene Practices: Mouthwash should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. While it can complement your oral hygiene routine, a toothbrush and floss are best suited for removing plaque and debris from your teeth and gums.

Preventative Care Near Me in Hebron, KY

Hebron Family Dentistry proudly offers quality preventive services to keep your smile healthy and sound. We are happy to answer questions and offer tips on home oral hygiene. Are you ready to take charge of your oral health? We invite you to contact us at 859-688-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!

Am I Experiencing a Dental Emergency?

Am I Experiencing A Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them and may leave you wondering if you require urgent dental care. Left untreated, some of these emergencies can pose a serious risk to your health, so if in doubt, call Hebron Family Dentistry at 859-689-2021 for immediate care. Meanwhile, we’ve compiled a list of signs to help determine whether you are experiencing a dental emergency. 

Severe, Persistent Tooth Pain

Tooth pain can be persistent and can be so severe it keeps you up all night. If the pain radiates to the neck, jaw, or ear, it may indicate a serious infection. Contact us for an emergency appointment immediately if you have constant throbbing, increased sensitivity, or facial swelling. 

An Abscessed or Infected Tooth

Signs of a tooth abscess or infection can include severe tooth pain, puffy or bleeding gums, sensitivity to temperature extremes or touch, or a raised bump on the gums. A tooth infection can pose a risk to your health, so it’s imperative that you seek emergency care immediately. 

A Knocked-Out Tooth

Pick up the tooth only by its crown, avoiding the root, and rinse it in clean water to remove dirt or debris. Gently return the tooth to its socket and bite down on a clean gauze to keep it in place. If that’s not possible, carry it between your gums and cheek or place it in some milk. A knocked-out tooth is a time-sensitive emergency. Don’t wait. The sooner you get treatment from our emergency dentist, the higher your chances of saving the affected tooth. 

A Cracked or Broken Tooth

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area, and place cold compresses to relieve pain or swelling. Contact our office for emergency care. The treatment method will depend on the severity of the damage and the location of the affected tooth. 

Soft Tissue Injury

Injuries to the gums, tongue, or cheeks don’t usually result in too much bleeding, but when they do, they can become a serious concern. Place gentle pressure using a clean cloth or gauze to control the bleeding. If heavy bleeding continues, head to your nearest emergency room for immediate care. 

Other Dental Emergencies

Other situations requiring immediate care include bleeding gums, a loose or dislodged tooth, and a lost crown or filling. If in doubt, we recommend contacting Hebron Family Dentistry for guidance. Remember – a dental emergency may not seem as serious as it is, so it’s best to seek care to avoid complications. Dr. Watson will recommend the most conservative solution to relieve your discomfort and restore your healthy smile. 

Emergency Dental Care Near Me in Hebron, KY

If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, contact Hebron Family Dentistry at 859-689-2021 right away. Dr. Watson and our dedicated team are committed to providing cutting-edge emergency dental services for prompt relief. You can always count on us for compassionate care that exceeds your expectations!

5 Reasons to Consider Dental Implants 

5 Reasons to Consider Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a superior solution for replacing missing teeth with unmatched stability, function, and aesthetics. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer a range of implant restoration options to complete your smile and enhance your quality of life. Here’s a look at five reasons to consider dental implants. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts we place in the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. They provide a stable foundation to support single crowns, implant-supported bridges, or implant-supported dentures. Whether you are missing one, several, or all of your teeth, a dental implant restoration may be the perfect solution for you!

What Is the Dental Implant Procedure? 

Our oral and maxillofacial surgeon will place your implant, which will integrate with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. After healing, which may take several months, we will attach a connector called an abutment and take impressions of your mouth. Our partner dental lab will use your impressions to create an implant restoration designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. 

 Why Choose Dental Implants?

Here is a look at the top five reasons we recommend dental implants: 

  1. Natural Appearance: Dental implants are meticulously crafted to match your natural teeth, delivering incredibly lifelike results. Your new restorations will have you smiling with confidence once again!  
  2. Superior Stability and Function: Dental implants are anchored to your jawbone, providing stability comparable to natural teeth. They help you speak more clearly and enjoy all your favorite foods once again. 
  3. Prevents Bone Loss: Dental implants act like your natural tooth roots, which helps stimulate the jawbone. They are the only restorations that prevent bone loss, enhancing your oral health and preserving your facial structure. 
  4. High Success Rate: Dental implants have an incredibly high success rate of over 95 percent, with outcomes improving as technology and techniques advance. Implant dentistry is one of the most predictable and successful procedures in modern dentistry.  
  5. Long-Lasting: Dental implants are incredibly durable, providing a long-term tooth restoration solution. With proper care and maintenance, your new implant restoration can enhance your smile for a lifetime! 

Dental Implants Near Me in Hebron, KY

If you would like to learn more about restoring your smile with dental implants, contact Hebron Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Dr. Watson and her dedicated team are committed to delivering quality restorations that are second only to natural, healthy teeth. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!

Restore Your Smile with a Dental Crown

Restore Your Smile with a Dental Crown

Hebron Family Dentistry is pleased to offer a range of restorative dentistry solutions, including same-day crowns, to restore weak or damaged teeth. Dr. Watson and our dedicated team are committed to providing quality, durable restorations to enhance the health, beauty, and function of your smile. Contact our Hebron office to get started today! 

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns, often referred to as caps, are tooth-shaped restorations that we place over weak or damaged teeth to restore their health and function. 

Dr. Watson may recommend a crown for the following reasons: 

  • To restore a tooth with deep decay that a traditional cavity cannot restore
  • To reinforce a tooth with a large filling
  • To protect a tooth after undergoing a root canal treatment
  • To strengthen a weak or damaged tooth
  • To repair a tooth worn due to chronic grinding and clenching (bruxism)
  • To relieve pain resulting from cracked tooth syndrome
  • To replace one or more missing teeth by covering a dental implant or supporting a dental bridge 
  • To make cosmetic modifications by improving the size, shape, color, or overall appearance of a tooth 

What Is CEREC Technology?

At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer CEREC crowns, a groundbreaking innovation that has transformed the dental crown process. CEREC stands for “Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics.” The state-of-the-art technology allows us to create high-quality ceramic crowns in just one dental visit. 

The CEREC system uses computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies to design and create dental restorations right here at our Hebron office. We capture virtual models of your crown without the need for messy impressions. Our on-site milling unit will use this information to create your restoration from a single ceramic block with incredible precision. Our aesthetic restorations mimic the function and appearance of your teeth, leaving you with a natural-looking and feeling smile. 

What Are the Advantages of CEREC Crowns?

  • Same-Day Restoration: One of the most significant advantages of CEREC technology is the ability to provide same-day restorations. A patient can come into our office with a damaged tooth and walk away with a fully restored smile in just one appointment, saving time and reducing inconvenience.
  • Precise Fit: CEREC uses digital impressions to create precise 3D models of the tooth, ensuring an accurate fit for the crown. This precision lowers the risk of complications and enhances the overall effectiveness of the restoration.
  • Natural Aesthetics: We manufacture CEREC crowns from high-quality ceramic materials that closely mimic the natural color and translucency of your tooth enamel. That results in restorations that blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, delivering a natural-looking smile.
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: CEREC crowns are known for their durability and longevity. The high-quality materials and precise manufacturing process deliver restorations that can withstand the forces of daily biting and chewing, enhancing your smile for many years to come.

Dental Crowns Near Me in Hebron, KY

Restoring your smile with a dental crown has never been easier or more convenient than with the cutting-edge CEREC technology proudly offered by Hebron Family Dentistry. Your new, same-day restoration will feel, look, and function like your natural teeth. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021  to schedule an appointment or request one online today! 

How to Whiten Your Teeth for the Holidays 

How to Whiten Your Teeth for the Holidays

If you are looking for solutions to whiten and brighten your smile in time for the holidays, Hebron Family Dentistry is here to help. We are pleased to offer professional teeth whitening treatments to restore your smile’s sparkle with beautifully natural results. Enjoy a bright, confident smile this holiday season and all year long!

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Over time, dark-colored foods and beverages like berries, coffee, and red wine can stain and discolor your teeth, as can the use of tobacco products. Tooth discoloration can also result from trauma, certain illnesses, or medications.  

In-office teeth whitening involves applying hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel to your tooth surfaces and using a special light to enhance the whitening process. The bleaching agent breaks down stains in the enamel and dentin layers, leaving your teeth several shades whiter and brighter in one short office visit. 

If you would rather whiten your teeth at home, we are happy to provide you with custom-fitted trays and professional-grade whitening gel. You’ll place some whitening gel in your trays and wear them for a few hours for about two weeks to achieve your desired results. Trusting our dental professionals for your teeth whitening needs is the safest and most effective way to transform your smile. 

Are You a Candidate for Professional Teeth Whitening?

While teeth whitening can brighten yellowish stains resulting from dark-colored foods and drinks or tobacco use, it may not be as effective for brown or gray stains resulting from trauma or the use of medications. Additionally, teeth whitening may not lift stains off dental restorations like tooth-colored fillings, crowns, or dentures.

If teeth whitening is not right for you, Dr. Watson may recommend a different cosmetic dentistry option, like cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers, or dental crowns. Aside from improving the color of your teeth, your restoration will mask any tooth imperfections, delivering a uniform smile. 

Tips for Maintaining a White and Bright Holiday Smile

The holidays are often a time of indulgence and celebration, but there are ways to keep your teeth at their brightest. Here are some tips to help you maintain your smile’s sparkle this holiday season and all year long: 

  • Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral care is the foundation of a bright and healthy smile. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can dull and discolor your teeth. 
  • Limit Staining Foods and Drinks: While indulging in holiday treats can be tempting, be mindful of foods and drinks that stain your teeth, like coffee, red wine, berries, and dark sodas. If you must have your morning coffee, rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum to prevent new stains from setting in. 
  • Drink Plenty of Water: Water not only quenches your thirst but also helps wash away food debris and bacteria, preventing staining. It also helps promote saliva production, which naturally keeps your teeth clean and bright.
  • Eat Plenty of Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Munching on crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, pears, carrots, and celery stimulates saliva production, brightening your smile. Additionally, the fiber content acts like a toothbrush, gently scrubbing away plaque and debris.
  • Schedule Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings: It is important to maintain regular dental exams and cleanings during the holiday season and throughout the year. Dr. Watson and her team will address any concerns in their earliest stages and help you maintain a white and bright smile. 

Teeth Whitening Near Me in Hebron, KY

Visit Hebron Family Dentistry to learn more about whitening your teeth for the holidays. Dr. Watson and our dedicated team look forward to helping you enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile this festive season and all year long. We invite you to call us at 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment today!

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Your Dentist

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Your Dentist

Has your partner or family member alerted you to loud snoring at night? Do you wake up tired and have trouble focusing on the simplest tasks? If so, you may have a serious sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. But did you know that there’s a strong link between sleep apnea and your dentist? 

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious health concern characterized by breathing pauses during sleep. The most common type of sleep apnea is known as obstructive sleep apnea or OSA. It occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax, obstructing the upper airway and preventing oxygen from reaching the lungs. The brain, sensing the oxygen deprivation, briefly wakes the patient to start breathing once again. 

Poor quality of sleep often leads to daytime fatigue, mood swings, depression, and difficulty concentrating. It can also lead to a higher risk of motor vehicle or workplace accidents. Sleep apnea is linked to serious health concerns, including heart disease, high blood pressure, acid reflux, and unexplained weight gain. 

What Is the Link Between Sleep Apnea and Your Dentist?

One of the first signs of sleep apnea can be grinding or clenching your teeth, a condition known as bruxism. Symptoms often include uneven tooth wear, chipped or fractured teeth, tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or TMD. 

Dentists are sometimes the first healthcare providers to recognize signs of sleep apnea. Even if you are unaware of your sleep disorder, a tooth exam may reveal tooth wear, gum inflammation, or other signs of sleep apnea. 

How Is Sleep Apnea Treated? 

The first step in treating sleep apnea is a sleep study to diagnose the condition. Treatments typically involve the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP machine, which blows pressurized air through a mask to keep the airway open as you sleep. 

Sleep Apnea Solutions Near Me

If you are concerned you have sleep apnea, talk to your healthcare provider or contact Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, to schedule a consultation. Call us at 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment today!

Can a Dentist Help Relieve My TMJ Pain?

Can a Dentist Help Relieve My TMJ Pain?

If you’ve been dealing with jaw pain or clicking, you may be suffering from a condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or TMD. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we understand the frustration of chronic pain and are happy to offer custom TMD solutions to relieve your discomfort. You can count on Dr. Watson and our dedicated team for exceptional care that exceeds your expectations!

What Are the Causes of TMJ Pain?

Your TMJs are small, triangular-shaped joints that connect your jawbone to your skull. There are two TMJs on each side of the jaw, in front of the ears, allowing your jaws to move up and down, side to side, and back and forth. 

A temporomandibular joint disorder can leave you with debilitating pain in the jaws and surrounding muscles. Common causes may include genetics, arthritis, stress, jaw injury, crooked or missing teeth, or an uneven bite. TMD is often associated with chronic teeth grinding and clenching, a condition known as bruxism. 

What Are the Symptoms of TMD?

The most common tell-tale signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders include jaw joint pain and discomfort, a clicking, popping, or grating sound when opening or closing your mouth, and muscle pain in the cheeks and temples. Other symptoms may include tension headaches, facial pain, earaches or ringing, locking of the jaw, limited mouth movements, changes in how the upper and lower teeth fit together, and tingling of the extremities. 

What Are TMD Treatment Options? 

Dr. Watson will evaluate your concerns and recommend the most conservative TMJ treatment to relieve your discomfort. These may include facial exercises, muscle relaxers, or anti-inflammatory medication. Another option is a procedure known as occlusal equilibrium, which involves reshaping the biting surfaces of your teeth to help the jaw close properly. 

If nighttime teeth grinding is the cause of your TMJ discomfort, Dr. Watson may recommend oral appliance therapy. That includes wearing a mouthguard called a night guard to help prevent the devastating effects of bruxism on your teeth and jaws. Your custom oral appliance will also help realign your jaw as you sleep, taking tension off your jaw joints. In some severe TMJ cases, when a patient needs more than nighttime treatment, wearing dental splints during the day may provide the needed relief. 

TMD Treatment Near Me

If you are in search of non-surgical TMD solutions, our team at Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, is here to help. Dr. Watson will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the ideal solution to provide you with long-term TMJ relief. Call us at 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment today!

What Are My Options for Replacing Missing Teeth?

What Are My Options for Replacing Missing Teeth?

Hebron Family Dentistry is pleased to offer a range of tooth replacement options to restore healthy, complete smiles. Whether you’re missing one, some, or all of your teeth, we have the perfect solution for you. Dr. Watson and her team will help you determine the tooth restoration option ideal for your unique needs and personal preferences. 

Dentures and Partials

Complete and partial dentures have long been the go-to option for patients with multiple missing teeth or total tooth loss. The removable restorations are custom-created for you, enhancing your smile and quality of life. While dentures may not provide the same stability as dental implants, advances in modern dentistry now offer tooth replacements that are sleeker, more comfortable, and more functional than ever before. 

Complete Dentures: Complete or full dentures replace all your teeth on the upper or lower arch or both. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer two types of complete dentures: immediate and conventional. 

  • Immediate Dentures: Immediate restorations are created in advance and positioned immediately after extracting any remaining teeth. That way, you’ll have a complete set of teeth while waiting for the gums to heal. 
  • Conventional Dentures: After extracting any remaining teeth, the gum and bone change shape. Conventional dentures are created from the highest quality materials after complete healing, providing the best fit, comfort, and function. 

Partial Dentures: Removable partial dentures are restorations that replace one or multiple teeth in your upper or lower jaw. They consist of replacement teeth set in gum-colored bases that attach to your natural teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures help keep your remaining natural teeth from shifting out of alignment, preventing a host of oral health complications that may result from leaving a gap in your smile. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are screw-like titanium posts that are placed in the jawbone to take the place of natural tooth roots. During the healing period, they integrate with the bone, providing a stable foundation for one or more replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Implant dentistry is today’s gold standard for replacing missing teeth, delivering results second only to healthy, natural teeth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime!

Single-Tooth Implants: If you are missing one of your teeth, a single-tooth implant may be an ideal option to restore your smile. Your restoration consists of an aesthetic dental crown placed on a single dental implant. Single-tooth implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. 

Implant-Supported Bridges: If you are missing two or more teeth in a row, implant-supported bridges offer a superior tooth restoration solution. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on crowns placed on adjacent teeth for support, implant bridges are secured to dental implants placed on either side of the gap, providing exceptional stability, comfort, and function. 

Implant-Supported Dentures: If you are missing an entire arch of teeth or are tired of wearing removable dentures, implant-supported dentures may be the perfect solution for you. Rather than being held in place by suction and your facial muscles as with traditional dentures, your implant-supported restorations are secured to a number of dental implants placed strategically in your jawbone. They provide unmatched stability, function, and durability, enhancing your oral health and quality of life. 

Tooth Replacement Solutions Near Me

If you’re missing one, some, or all of your teeth, our team at Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, is here to help. Dr. Watson will recommend the tooth replacement solution ideal for your unique needs and personal preferences. Don’t let tooth loss interfere with your smile and quality of life. Call 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment today!

What Can I Expect During a Dental Cleaning?

What Can I Expect During a Dental Cleaning?

Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good dental health and a confident smile. Our team at Hebron Family Dentistry is committed to partnering with you on your oral health journey and strives to help you maintain your most radiant smile. Here’s all you need to know about dental cleanings and what you can expect during your visit. 

How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned?

Most dental professionals agree that patients with healthy teeth and gums require twice-yearly dental visits. However, individuals with gum disease or other dental problems may require more frequent dental care. 

Keeping up with your routine dental cleanings has been shown to significantly lower the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Your visits also offer an opportunity for our team at Hebron Family Dentistry to evaluate your oral health and treat any dental problems as they develop, preventing them from becoming serious problems down the road. 

What Is the Dental Cleaning Process at Hebron Family Dentistry?

Here’s a look at what you can expect during your dental cleaning:

  • Comprehensive Oral Examination: Before we start the dental cleaning process, we will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth. We will check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. We may take digital x-rays for a more detailed view of your teeth and jawbone. 
  • Plaque and Tartar Removal: We will start the dental cleaning process by gently scraping away plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth using special instruments. Next, professional flossing will remove any remaining plaque or debris between your teeth. 
  • Thorough Teeth Polishing: We will clean your teeth with a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste. That ensures the removal of any remaining debris and buffs away surface stains, leaving your teeth whiter and brighter.
  • Fluoride Treatment: After cleaning your teeth, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to lower your risk of tooth decay. The powerful cavity fighter has also been shown to reverse the early signs of tooth decay by remineralizing your teeth. 
  • Oral Health Education: We are happy to discuss proper oral hygiene techniques tailored to your specific needs. We may demonstrate proper brushing and flossing practices and may recommend oral care products to enhance your smile.

Dental Cleanings Near Me in Hebron, KY

A dental cleaning is an essential preventive procedure that promotes good oral health and keeps you from developing serious dental issues down the road. Our team at Hebron Family Dentistry looks forward to helping you maintain a bright, healthy smile. We invite you to contact us at 859-688-2021 or schedule an appointment online today. 

Grinding Your Teeth at Night? We Can Help!

Grinding-Your-Teeth-at-Night-We-Can-Help-update

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!