Night Guards
Dental night guards are used to treat teeth grinding and clenching. We cover bruxism, the causes and treatment options, the benefits of using a night guard, how to choose a night guard (the various types of night guards available and the costs), and the proper use and maintenance of a night guard.
Understanding Bruxism
Bruxism refers to an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most humans at some point in their lives. Grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw are the two main characteristics of this condition, which can occur during the day or at night.
Bruxism is one of the most common known sleep disorders and causes most of its damage during sleeping hours. The clenching and grinding which accompanies bruxism is symptomatic of a malfunctioning chewing reflex, which is turned off in non-sufferers when sleeping. For sufferers, deep sleep or even naps cause the reflex nerve control center in the brain to turn off and the reflex pathways to become active.
Benefits of using a night guard
A night guard provides the best protection against nighttime bruxism. The night guard assists in providing protection from damage due to both grinding as well as clenching. It is designed with opposing grooves as well, to help secure a natural resting bite and reduce damage as much as possible as you sleep.
If you have questions or concerns about night guards, please contact our office.
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