Do you wake up with a sore jaw, frequent headaches, or tooth pain? These could be signs of bruxism, a condition where you grind or clench your teeth, often while sleeping. Over time, this can lead to significant dental issues such as worn-down teeth, fractures, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. At Harbour Dental in Kingston, ON, we offer custom-made nightguards designed to protect your teeth from the harmful effects of grinding and clenching.
In this blog, we’ll explain what bruxism is, how nightguards work, and why they’re essential for maintaining your dental health.
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching, which often happens unconsciously during sleep or times of stress. While occasional teeth grinding may not cause much harm, chronic bruxism can lead to:
Bruxism is common, and many people are unaware they have it until they start noticing symptoms or their dentist points out the signs of damage during a routine checkup.
A nightguard is a custom-fitted dental appliance that you wear while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding and clenching. It works by creating a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force from grinding and clenching so that your teeth and jaw are protected from excessive wear and tear.
1. Prevents Tooth Damage
One of the most significant benefits of a nightguard is that it prevents the long-term damage that grinding and clenching can cause. Without a nightguard, the constant pressure from bruxism can wear down your teeth, leading to sensitivity, fractures, and even the need for crowns or other restorative treatments. Wearing a nightguard acts as a cushion, keeping your teeth safe from these effects.
2. Reduces Jaw Pain and Headaches
If you often wake up with a sore jaw or frequent headaches, bruxism may be to blame. A nightguard helps reduce the tension in your jaw muscles by preventing excessive clenching, which can ease muscle pain and prevent headaches.
3. Protects Dental Work
If you’ve had dental restorations like crowns, bridges, or implants, a nightguard can protect them from damage caused by grinding. Dental work is an investment in your smile, and a nightguard ensures that these restorations last as long as possible.
Bruxism can aggravate TMJ disorders, which affect the joints that connect your jawbone to your skull. The stress from clenching can lead to jaw clicking, popping, and even difficulty opening your mouth. A nightguard helps alleviate pressure on these joints, reducing TMJ symptoms and preventing further complications.
While over-the-counter nightguards are available, they often don’t provide the same level of comfort or protection as a custom-made nightguard from your dentist. Here’s why a custom nightguard is the better choice:
1. Perfect Fit
At Harbour Dental, we create nightguards based on impressions of your teeth, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit. Custom nightguards are made from high-quality materials that are durable yet comfortable, allowing you to sleep without discomfort or disruption.
2. Tailored Protection
A custom nightguard is designed specifically for your teeth and bite pattern. Over-the-counter nightguards may be too bulky or ill-fitting, reducing their effectiveness in preventing grinding. A custom nightguard provides maximum protection against bruxism.
3. Long-Lasting Durability
Custom nightguards are more durable than store-bought options. They are made from strong, high-quality materials that can withstand nightly use for several years with proper care. In contrast, over-the-counter options may wear out more quickly and need to be replaced more often.
At Harbour Dental in Kingston, getting a custom nightguard is a simple and straightforward process:
1. Consultation and Examination
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your symptoms and examine your teeth and jaw for signs of bruxism. If we determine that a nightguard is necessary, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fit nightguard that matches the shape of your mouth.
2. Nightguard Creation
Using the impressions, our dental lab will craft a custom nightguard designed specifically for your teeth and bite. This process ensures a comfortable, secure fit that protects your teeth while you sleep.
3. Fitting and Adjustments
Once your nightguard is ready, we’ll have you come back to the office for a fitting. We’ll make sure the nightguard fits properly and is comfortable to wear. If any adjustments are needed, we’ll make them to ensure a perfect fit.
4. Home Care Instructions
We’ll provide instructions on how to care for your nightguard, including how to clean it and store it properly to ensure it lasts for years. With regular dental visits and good care, your nightguard will remain an effective tool for protecting your teeth from bruxism.
Not sure if you’re grinding your teeth? Here are some common signs that you might benefit from a nightguard:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your dentist. Addressing bruxism early can prevent further damage and protect your smile in the long run.
At Harbour Dental, we take pride in providing personalized care for each of our patients. Here’s why so many patients in Kingston, ON trust us to help them manage bruxism with custom nightguards:
If you’re struggling with teeth grinding or jaw pain, a custom nightguard from Harbour Dental could be the solution you need. Our team is here to help you protect your teeth and enjoy better sleep, free from the effects of bruxism.
