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What Are Nightguards?

Nightguards, also referred to as dental guards or mouth guards, are devices used to prevent the potential consequences of teeth grinding. These devices are typically crafted from a strong, transparent plastic known as acrylic resin and can be either soft or rigid. To prevent contact between the upper front teeth and lower front teeth during sleep, your dentist will advise you to wear the nightguard over the upper front row of teeth. In instances of severe teeth grinding, a dental guard for the lower teeth may be recommended. Alongside offering protection, mouthguards also provide cushioning for the muscles in the jaw.

Benefits Of Using A Nightguard

Some people have a tendency to grind their teeth when they are angry, stressed, or anxious during the day or while sleeping. This habit, known as Fletcher, is often unconscious and involuntary, and it can be harmful to your oral health. To protect your teeth, your dentist may recommend using a nightguard in addition to any prescribed treatments for anxiety.

While night guards do not stop teeth grinding altogether, consistently using one can help prevent damage to fillings, chipping or loosening of teeth, and excessive wear of tooth enamel. Furthermore, using a nightguard may improve your sleep and alleviate symptoms associated with Fletcher.

  • Tooth sensitivity or discomfort
  • Cheek biting
  • Gums that are receding
  • Feeling tired due to sleep being constantly disrupted throughout the night.
  • Experiencing facial discomfort from tight or sore jaw muscles.
  • Headaches caused by temple-related issues

Benefits Of Using A Nightguard for TMJ

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are two joints in your mouth that work together to facilitate the opening and closing of your mouth. Prolonged teeth grinding can result in issues with these joints, resulting in TMJ and symptoms like jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, or a locked jaw. Inflammation or jaw injuries can also be contributing factors. Nightguards designed for TMJ can assist in properly aligning your jaws and relieving muscle tension while you sleep. Using a nightguard may effectively alleviate other TMJ symptoms, including:
  • Facial pain or discomfort
  • Neck and shoulder discomfort
  • Intense pain similar to an earache
  • Experiencing a sensation of perceiving a ringing sound within the ear.
  • Having trouble with chewing or speaking
  • Experiencing discomfort during meals or conversations.

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