Nightguards

If you often find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, or if you often wake up with jaw pain, earaches, and headaches, you may have a common condition called bruxism. You may unconsciously clench your teeth when you’re awake (awake bruxism) or grind them during sleep (sleep bruxism). If bruxism is left uncorrected, it can lead to broken or cracked teeth, damaged restorations, and even tooth loss.

The causes of bruxism are unknown, but stress, difficulty sleeping, abnormal bite, and crooked or missing teeth all may contribute to bruxism.

How is tooth grinding treated?

Luckily, nightguards are an easy, non-invasive yet highly effective treatment for bruxism. Nightguards are custom-made and inserted over the top or bottom arch to prevent contact with the opposing set of teeth. Typically, there are three different options for nightguards: the pre-made nightguard, the “boil-and-bite” nightguard, and a custom-made nightguard from a dental office. Be sure the nightguard that you select is tear-resistant, comfortable to wear, easy to keep clean, and does not hinder breathing in any way.

Our office will work with you to custom-create a nightguard that matches all of these requirements.