Mouth Guard A night mouthguard is a straightforward device. It's made by taking an impression of your teeth and then creating a clear plastic model of them. You wear this while you sleep. You bite down on it just as you would normally bite down on your teeth, only this time you're biting down on acrylic instead of enamel, and having your jaw muscles relaxed in the process. A night mouthguard replaces the sensations you associate with grinding your teeth with sensations that are comfortable. Our experts here at Kaw Valley Family Dental will help you get a custom-made mouthguard that is comfortable and well-fitting. What Is Teeth Grinding?Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that many people experience. It can occur at night or during the day, and it usually occurs unconsciously. In fact, many people are unaware that they grind their teeth until their dentist informs them of it after an examination. If you suspect that you might have a problem with teeth grinding, schedule an appointment with our dentist for an exam. We will also ask about your medical history to find out whether any underlying conditions may be causing the problem. We will then fit you for a custom-made nightguard. How does a night mouthguard work?If you clench your jaw while sleeping, this causes stress on your jaw joints and muscles, which in turn causes pain and soreness in the morning when you wake up. A night mouthguard works by holding your jaw firmly in place while you sleep, preventing it from moving out of alignment during the course of your sleep cycle. This in turn helps to reduce the pressure present in your jaw and teeth. What Is the Best Night Mouthguard for My Teeth?The most effective mouthguards are custom-fitted by your dentists. Many people find them comfortable. Stock mouthguards, on the other hand, come in many sizes and can be found in drug stores. However, finding a good fit can be difficult since they are one-size-fits-all. To find the best night mouthguard for your teeth, you should assess your needs based on your comfort level and the severity of your sleep apnea or clenching problem. We always recommend custom-made nightguards, as they fit the exact shape of your mouth and teeth. When Do I Need to Replace My Night Mouthguard?Most people don't give much thought to their night mouthguards until something goes wrong. You might be wondering whether you need to replace your night mouthguard or not. As long as it is still in one piece and does not have any holes, you are good to continue using it. The only time that you should replace your night mouthguard is if it has developed holes or if it is so worn out that it no longer fits your teeth. If you feel you need to replace your night mouthguard, you can bring it to our dental clinic Kaw Valley Family Dental for inspection. To book an appointment give us a call at 913-441-3373. |
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