Night Guards

If you often wake up with jaw pain, earaches, sore facial muscles, headaches, or if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have a common condition called “bruxism”. Many people do not even know that they grind their teeth, as it often occurs when one is sleeping. Bruxism can lead to potential loss of tooth enamel, cracked teeth, broken teeth, cracked/broken porcelain, cercon crowns and bridges, or even tooth loss.

Occasional grinding and clenching can be related to stress and may come and go, and it usually becomes a constant habit. Habitual, long term bruxism can lead to serious damage to jaw joints.

There is an easy, non-invasive treatment for bruxism – Night Guards. Night Guards are an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that causes teeth-grinding over time. It is custom-made by your denturist from soft or hard, or combination of soft and hard material to fit your teeth. A Night Guard is inserted over your top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth. The night guard should be used regularly for the best results possible.

J.A. Denture Clinic LLC provides custom night guards which cushion between the upper and lower teeth to protect from the effects of bruxism. Additionally, J.A. Denture Clinic LLC gives customers the option of selecting between three different night guards, based on the severity of teeth grinding.

1. Hybrid Night Guard – Moderate Grinding

It is made from a material called dual-laminate (approximately 2mm to 3mm thick): rigid on the outside and soft on the inside. The outer hard surface provides excellent protection while the inner soft surface ensures a comfortable fit. The night guard is durable and may be used for approximately 1 to 3 years, depending on the degree of teeth grinding.

2. Hard Night Guard – Heavy Grinding

It is made from a firm, durable plastic (elasticized acrylic) approximately 2mm to 3mm in thickness. This special thermo-plastic material softens in warm water to facilitate fitting. At body temperature, the material is slightly pliant and offers a comfortable fit. Rinse the night guard in hot water and then fit it over your teeth for a perfectly contoured fit. The night guard is durable and may be used for approximately 2 to 5 years, depending on the degree of teeth grinding.

3. Ultra Thin Guard – Day Time Grinding

It is made from a thin layer of hard acrylic (approximately 1mm thick). The ultra thin guard may be used for approximately 6 months to 2 years, depending on the degree of teeth grinding.

4. Soft Night Guard – Sensitive Gum or Teeth

It is made from a flexible, rubber material (approximately 2mm thick). The night guard may be used for approximately 6 months to 2 years, depending on the degree of teeth grinding.

5. Sports Mouth Guard – Typically used in Sports to Protect Trauma.

Whether you wear braces or not, protecting your smile while playing sports is essential. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury. If you participate in any kind of full-contact sport, the American Dental Association recommends that you wear a mouthguard.