Protect Your Teeth With a Night Guard

Night Guard San Antonio, TX

A night guard is an ideal dental appliance that patients can utilize when looking to protect their teeth from grinding their teeth or clenching their jaw. This condition is also known as bruxism. Most people grind their teeth while sleeping, which can have a negative impact on one's oral health. Thankfully, night guards are a effective, affordable, and pain-free treatment option to prevent future oral health issues.

What is a night guard?

A night guard is an oral appliance made by a dental lab. It is based on custom impressions taken in the dentist's office. Night guards are similar to traditional mouth guards used in sports or during other physical activities. However, this oral appliance is crafted specifically for the patient to wear at night. As a result, it is usually more comfortable and less bulky than traditional mouth guards.

How night guards can help prevent teeth grinding

One of the best ways to prevent teeth grinding is through a night guard from a dentist. There may be other treatments incorporated with the use of a night guard, such as muscle relaxers or stress relievers. However, generally speaking, night guards are known to significantly reduce teeth grinding, if not completely eliminate it. Because the appliance is so thick and sturdy, individuals are not able to grind their top arch of teeth against the bottom arch. The night guard stays in between the two throughout the night, thus preventing any grinding.

The benefits of night guards

Tooth protection

Protecting the teeth is important because it ensures that they remain healthy, strong, and intact. Many individuals who grind their teeth on a regular basis can end up suffering from the following issues:

  • Cracked or fractured teeth
  • Worn down enamel
  • Increased sensitivity
  • Increased risk of periodontal disease
  • Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
  • Gum recession
  • Irregular sleep patterns
  • Headaches or migraines

Due to the negative effect that bruxism can have on one's mouth, regularly wearing a night guard while sleeping is an important step to protecting the teeth, gums, and jaw.

Other notable benefits

While a night guard does primarily protect the teeth against teeth grinding, there are a few other notable benefits, such as protection against jaw clenching, which can be painful and damaging in the long term. Additionally, a night guard can reduce the chances of headaches or soreness in the mouth, as it keeps teeth grinding at a minimum. Individuals who wear a night guard are also more likely to sleep better because they will not be grinding their teeth, which can cause abrupt awakenings. 

Get started with a night guard

Have you been struggling with grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw at night? The Bigway Family Dental team is here to help. We are here to answer your questions and can perform an evaluation to help determine if a night guard will be effective in your situation. Reach out to our San Antonio office today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://www.bigwayfamilydental.com or call Bigway Family Dental at (210) 209-8418 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Night Guards in San Antonio, TX.

Related Posts

How A General Dentist Helps To Relieve Dental Anxiety

Talking to your general dentist about your dental anxiety can help start your dental appointment the right way. This condition can prevent you from getting the right dental treatments. Keeping it at bay is possible during the visit. Here are the details on how your general dentist can help relieve your dental anxiety.This is an…

How A General Dentist Can Repair Broken Teeth

General dentists are the professionals individuals see for preventative dental care and their biannual checkups. However, they can also help with sudden dental needs, such as treating tooth pain or repairing broken teeth. Let us look at the causes of broken teeth, their types, and how we can help.There are various types of broken teeth,…

Oral Hygiene Tips From A General Dentist

Maintaining good oral hygiene is an essential part of overall health and well-being. It can prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease. A general dentist can help educate patients about properly caring for their teeth, treating oral health issues, and more. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve a bright and healthy…

Gum Disease Treatment From A General Dentist

A general dentist may spot signs of gum disease during a six-month checkup. Fortunately, these dental care providers can diagnose and treat gum disease of various severity levels. Whether they recommend deep cleaning or periodontal surgery, a dentist can help patients restore oral health and relieve symptoms.Gum disease, or periodontitis, is common but preventable. But…