Night Guard for Bruxism
Teeth grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism, is very common in most patients and can
be painful. It can also be destructive of your teeth and cause premature wear and tear. There
are plenty of different kinds of night guards that can help you if you suffer from clenching and
grinding.
Bruxism, what is it?
Bruxism is common, and some people might not be aware that they grind or clench their teeth
until it is pointed out to them at their dental appointment. Some symptoms of bruxism are
teeth grinding, waking up with a dull headache, jaw soreness and pain, facial pain, chipped
teeth, and fatigue from lack of sleep. Consistent long-term bruxism can lead to broken teeth,
loss of tooth enamel, sensitivity and in severe cases loss of teeth.
The cause of bruxism is unknown, but it can be triggered by stress and anxiety. Other causes
can be alcohol use, cigarettes, caffeine, sleep apnea, snoring, an abnormal bite, and misaligned
teeth.
What is a night guard?
Bruxism can be easily treated by wearing a night guard on your teeth while you sleep. They can
be called, nocturnal bite plates, bite splints dental guard or a mouth guard (not to be confused
with a sports guard). They create a barrier between your teeth to lighten the tension and give
cushion to your muscles in the jaw. This cushioning not only helps the prevent facial and jaw
pain, but it can protect your teeth. They are very similar to snoring remedies or snore guards.
They can be purchased over the counter without a prescription or from your dentist, there are
different ways that they can be fitted and the type that will work best for you will depend on
your specific needs.
Types of Night Guards
Soft Night Guard: most used for mild or occasional cases, not for severe teeth grinders.
Pros:
- Most comfortable fit
- Most adaptable
- Usually, lower cost
Cons:
- Some people unintentionally clench or chew on the soft material
- Not as durable
- Most warranties are only 6 months or less due to the limited life spam
- Not a long-term solution
Dual Laminate Night Guards: this is more commonly used for moderate to severe teeth
grinders and are soft on the inside and hard on the outside.
Pros:
- Handles heavy clenching and grinding
- Longer lasting
- Usually, a longer warranty than soft guards
Cons:
- Tend to be thicker than other guards
- Harder to adjust
Hard Night Guards: made from acrylic and are extremely rigid but durable and used in severe cases of teeth grinding as well as TMJ.
Pros:
- Most durable
- Prevents teeth from shifting
- Usually, longest warrant
Cons:
- Thicker than soft night guards
- More uncomfortable than others
- Need to be ordered directly from a dentist
- Difficult to get used to
- Can be more expensive than others
Fitting your nightguard?
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
975 St Albert Trail #110, St. Albert, AB T8N 4K6
Phone: (780) 569-5151
Email: [email protected]
Serving St. Albert and Surrounding Communities
- Erin Ridge North
- Jensen Lakes
- Erin Ridge
- Oakmont
- Deer Ridge
- North Ridge
- Lacombe Park
- St. Albert
- Morinville
- Inglewood
- Ville Giroux
- Mission
- Braeside
- Woodlands
- Kingswood
- Pineview
- Sturgeon County
- Cardiff
Day of the week | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Sat-Sun | Closed |
2023 Erin Ridge Dental • All Services Provided By General Dentists
Website Created by Case Dentistry
