Night Guards

Night guards are protective devices worn over your teeth while you sleep. They are designed to create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent them from coming into direct contact with each other. This helps protect against the harmful effects of bruxism, a condition characterized by involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth during sleep. 

Why Use a Night Guard? 

While night guards are primarily used to address bruxism, they also provide additional benefits for individuals with other dental issues. Here’s why night guards are important: 

• Protection against teeth grinding: Bruxism can cause significant wear and tear on your teeth, leading to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even fractures. A night guard helps prevent this damage by cushioning the teeth and reducing the impact of grinding. 

• Prevention of jaw pain: Grinding and clenching can strain the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to discomfort or pain. Night guards help alleviate this pressure by providing a cushioning effect and redistributing the force exerted on the jaw. 

• Reduction of headaches: Frequent teeth grinding can contribute to tension headaches and migraines. By preventing the grinding action, night guards can help reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches. 

• Prevention of tooth damage: In addition to preventing enamel erosion, night guards help protect dental restorations, such as crowns and fillings, from damage caused by grinding or clenching. Call us to learn more. 

Types of Night Guards

Night guards come in various types, each designed to address specific needs and preferences. Dr. Pouya Momtaz will help you choose the best type of night guard based on your condition and lifestyle. 

Custom Night Guards 

Custom night guards are made specifically for your teeth using precise impressions or digital scans. They are tailored to fit your mouth perfectly, providing optimal comfort and protection. 

Advantages: 

• Perfect fit: Custom night guards are designed to fit the unique contours of your teeth and gums, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. 

• Enhanced durability: Made from high-quality materials, custom night guards are durable and long-lasting. 

• Superior Protection: A well-fitting custom night guard provides the best protection against bruxism and related issues. 

Procedure: 

Initial Consultation 

Dr. Momtaz will assess your dental health and discuss your symptoms to determine if a night guard is appropriate for you. 

Impressions or Scans 

If the dentist determines that you need night guards, precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth are taken to help create a custom mold for the night guard. 

Fabrication 

The night guard is crafted using high-quality materials based on your custom mold. 

Fitting and Adjustments 

Once the night guard is ready, you will return for a fitting appointment. Dr. Momtaz will ensure that the night guard fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments. 

Over-the-Counter Night Guards 

Over-the-counter night guards are pre-made and available without a prescription. They come in various sizes and are designed to be adjusted to fit most people. 

Advantages: 

• Accessibility: Over-the-counter night guards are readily available at pharmacies and retail stores. 

• Affordability: They are generally less expensive than custom night guards. 

Disadvantages: 

• Less comfortable: These night guards may not provide the same level of comfort and fit as custom options. 

• Limited protection: Over-the-counter guards may not offer the same level of protection and durability as custom-made guards. 

• Adjustments: They often require self-adjustment, which can be challenging and may affect their effectiveness. 

Boil-and-Bite Night Guards 

Boil-and-bite night guards are a type of over-the-counter guard that can be customized at home. They are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when boiled and then molds to the shape of your teeth when bitten. 

Advantages: 

• Customizable: Boil-and-bite guards can be adjusted at home for a more personalized fit compared to standard over-the-counter options. 

• Cost-effective: They are generally more affordable than custom night guards. 

Disadvantages: 

• Fit and comfort: While more adjustable than standard over-the-counter guards, boil-and-bite guards may still lack the precision fit and comfort of custom-made guards. 

• Durability: They may not be as durable or long-lasting as custom options. 

Benefits of Using Night Guards 

Night guards can provide numerous benefits beyond protecting your teeth from bruxism. Here’s a closer look at how night guards can positively impact your oral health and overall well-being: 

Protection From Tooth Wear and Damage 

By acting as a barrier between your teeth, night guards prevent the excessive wear and tear associated with grinding and clenching. This helps maintain the integrity of your tooth enamel and reduces the risk of tooth fractures or chips. 

Relief From Jaw and Muscle Pain 

Night guards help alleviate the pressure on your jaw muscles and TMJ by redistributing the force exerted during grinding. This can lead to significant relief from jaw pain, muscle soreness, and tension headaches. 

Improved Sleep Quality 

By addressing bruxism and associated discomfort, night guards can contribute to better sleep quality. Reducing nighttime grinding and clenching can lead to more restful sleep and decreased nighttime awakenings. 

Protection for Dental Restorations 

If you have dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, a night guard can help protect these investments from damage caused by grinding. This helps ensure the longevity of your dental work and reduces the need for costly repairs. 

Conclusion 

Night guards are a valuable tool in protecting your teeth and oral health from the effects of bruxism and related dental issues. By providing a barrier between your teeth and alleviating pressure on your jaw, night guards can help prevent damage, reduce pain, and improve your overall well-being.

At Align Orthodontics, Dr. Pouya Momtaz and his team are dedicated to providing exceptional care and customized solutions to meet your needs. If you suspect that you could benefit from a night guard or have any questions about the treatment, we invite you to contact us to schedule a consultation. Let us help you safeguard your smile and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life. 

Ready to transform your child's smile? Schedule a consultation with your trusted orthodontist in Las Vegas, NV at Align Orthodontics today! Call us at (702) 331-6727 or visit us at 7445 S Durango Dr Suite 103, Las Vegas, NV 89113. Let’s get you started on the path to a confident, beautiful smile!