Nighttime Dental Guard
Do you clench or grind your teeth while you sleep? If so, the consistent pressure generated by overactive chewing muscles may be causing serious damage to your teeth. This condition can also cause other symptoms that may have a debilitating effect on your day-to-day life. Custom nighttime dental guards, also known as “nightguards,” from our experienced dentists here at Aesthetic Smiles of New Jersey can give your teeth a significant layer of protection and relieve many of the symptoms associated with grinding and clenching.
Symptoms of Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism)
Bruxism is the dental term for teeth clenching and grinding. It often occurs when individuals are asleep, which can make them unaware they even have the condition until symptoms begin to surface. These symptoms vary among patients, but can include:
- Wearing down of the teeth
- Chips and fractures
- Loosening of the teeth
- TMJ Disorder
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jaw and facial muscle pain
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Lack of sleep
Benefits of a Nighttime Dental Guard
A nighttime dental guard adds a cushion of space between your upper and lower teeth that protects them from bruxism. The dental guards available at our practice are completely customized for each patient. They are typically made of a very soft material that can nevertheless absorb the excessive force placed on your jaw muscles and your teeth while you sleep. Designed to fit as comfortably as possible, nighttime dental guards can stop the upper and lower teeth from grinding against each other, helping prevent further damage to the teeth and potentially reducing or eliminating many of the problems brought on by bruxism.
If you think you may be clenching and grinding your teeth at night, please contact Aesthetic Smiles of New Jersey today. We will be happy to provide you with more information on our treatment options, or we can assist you with scheduling an appointment for an oral evaluation.
