You may have heard of night guards being recommended by dentists, but what are they, and why are they important? This article will discuss the benefits of wearing a night guard, from protecting your teeth from wear and tear to promoting better sleep. Learn more about this important tool for dental health and how it can help you maintain a healthy smile.
What is a Night Guard, and How Does it Work?
If you’re one of the many sufferings from teeth grinding (bruxism), you may wonder if a night guard is right for you. A night guard is a custom-made mouthpiece that you wear at night to protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding.
Your dentist can help you determine if a night guard is right for you and take measurements to create a custom fit. Night guards are made from soft, comfortable materials that allow you to breathe easily and won’t irritate your gums.
Wearing a night guard is simple – just put it in before you go to bed and take it out when you wake up. You’ll notice a difference in how your teeth feel after just a few nights of use!
Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard
If you’re one of the 40 million Americans who suffer from regular teeth grinding, you may be looking for ways to stop. Your dentist may have recommended that you try wearing a night guard. But what are the benefits of wearing a night guard for teeth grinding, and why do dentists recommend them?
Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel on them, making them more susceptible to cavities and other problems. Wearing a night guard can help protect your teeth from the damage caused by teeth grinding. A night guard can help keep your teeth healthy and prevent future damage.
In addition to protecting your teeth, wearing a night guard can help relieve some of the symptoms of teeth grinding. If you grind your teeth at night, you may wake up with a headache or jaw pain. Wearing a night guard can help reduce these symptoms by providing a barrier between your upper and lower teeth.
If you’re considering wearing a night guard to protect your teeth from damage or relieve symptoms associated with grinding, talk to your dentist about whether it’s right for you.
Types of Night Guards
There are two main types of night guards: custom-fitted and boil-and-bite. Custom-fitted night guards are made by taking an impression of your teeth and then creating a mold from that impression. Boil-and-bite night guards are less expensive and can be bought at most drugstores. They come in preformed sizes that you can mold to your teeth using hot water.
While both types of night guards will protect your teeth, custom-fitted night guards are generally more comfortable and offer a better fit. This means they’re less likely to slip or move around while you sleep, and they’re also less likely to cause gum irritation.
How to Choose the Right One for You
Many different types of night guards are available on the market, so how do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a night guard:
1. The size of your mouth. Some night guards are designed for people with smaller mouths, while others are better suited for those with more enormous mouths. Make sure to choose a night guard that will fit comfortably in your mouth.
2. The level of protection you need. If you only grind your teeth occasionally, you may not need a heavy-duty night guard. However, if you suffer from regular or severe tooth grinding, you’ll need a more robust night guard to protect your teeth.
3. Your budget. Choose the night guard that fits your budget while providing the level of protection you need.
4. Your dentist’s recommendation. If you need help determining which type of night guard is right for you, ask your dentist for their recommendation. They can help you choose the best night guard based on your individual needs and preferences
Self-Care Tips When Wearing a Night Guard
If you are one of the many people who wear a night guard to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching at night, you know they can be a pain to keep clean. Here are some tips to help you keep your night guard clean and your teeth healthy:
-Rinse your night guard with warm water before putting it in your mouth. This will help remove any saliva or food particles on the surface.
-Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the surface of the night guard, being careful not to damage the material.
-Rinse your night guard with warm water and put it back in its case.
-Repeat this process every morning and evening.
You can help reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay by taking good care of your teeth and gums. In addition to cleaning your night guard, it is also essential to practice good oral hygiene habits. Be sure to brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Cost and Insurance Considerations
A night guard range can depend on the type of night guard and where you purchase it. Many dental insurance plans will cover the night guard cost, but you may have to pay a deductible or copay. If your insurance doesn’t cover the cost of a night guard, you can still get one by paying for it yourself.
Cost is undoubtedly essential when considering whether to wear a night guard. However, it’s also important to consider the benefits of wearing a night guard. Wearing a night guard can help protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching, saving you money in the long run by avoiding costly dental repairs. In addition, wearing a night guard can help you prevent pain and discomfort associated with teeth grinding and clenching. Ultimately, whether or not to wear a night guard is up to you and your dentist, considering both cost and potential benefits.
Conclusion
Wearing a night guard is an effective and safe way to help protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding or clenching. By reducing the stress placed on your jaw joints, you can minimize TMJ pain and discomfort and reduce potential damage caused by bruxism. Dentists recommend wearing a night guard to ensure that their patients get the best possible results from their treatment plan. If you suffer from any oral health condition, talk to your dentist about whether or not a night guard could benefit you.