Night Guards for Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Teeth grinding and clenching, medically known as bruxism, affects millions of people, often without their awareness because it frequently occurs during sleep. A 2021 survey by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute showed that more than 70% of dentists noticed signs of teeth grinding and clenching in their patients, an increase of nearly 10% over the previous year. This concerning trend highlights the importance of protecting your teeth from the damaging effects of these unconscious habits.
Night guards create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact that can lead to worn enamel, chipped teeth, and jaw pain. They also help reduce the strain on your jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint, which can alleviate morning headaches and facial pain associated with bruxism.Â
Many patients report improved sleep quality once they begin wearing a properly fitted night guard. The design of your night guard depends on the severity of your grinding and your specific needs. Some patients benefit from softer materials that cushion grinding forces, while others require harder, more durable guards for severe cases. We evaluate your individual situation and create a night guard that provides optimal protection while remaining comfortable enough for nightly wear.
Custom Fitting Process and Superior Comfort
Creating your custom mouth guard begins with detailed impressions of your teeth, ensuring a precise fit that’s comfortable and secure. Unlike generic mouth guards that rely on a one-size-fits-all approach, custom guards are fabricated specifically for your mouth structure. This personalized approach results in better retention, improved comfort, and superior protection compared to over-the-counter alternatives.
During your fitting appointment, we evaluate the following:
- Your bite relationship
- Jaw movement
- Specific protection needs
For sports guards, we consider the type of activities you participate in and any previous dental work that might require additional protection. For night guards, we assess signs of grinding or clenching and determine the optimal thickness and hardness for your situation.
The fabrication process typically takes one to two weeks, during which your guard is carefully crafted in a dental laboratory using high-quality materials. When your custom guard is ready, we schedule a delivery appointment to ensure proper fit and provide detailed instructions for use and care. Minor adjustments can be made at this appointment to optimize comfort and function.
Protect Your Smile with Professional Mouth Guards
At Floss Lincoln Park, we believe prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to protecting your oral health. Our custom mouth guards represent a smart investment in preserving your natural teeth and avoiding costly dental repairs down the road. Dr. Delone Jouja’s commitment to creating trust-based relationships ensures you receive personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and lifestyle. Dr. Martha Silva’s extensive training, including her background as a U.S. Army dentist and current pursuit of a Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry, provides the knowledge needed to create mouth guards that offer optimal protection and comfort.
Whether you need a sports guard to protect you during athletic activities or a night guard to prevent damage from teeth grinding, we’re here to provide solutions that fit your lifestyle and budget. Our Lincoln Park practice welcomes patients of all ages, from young athletes just starting their sports careers to adults dealing with stress-related bruxism. Don’t wait until dental damage occurs to protect your smile. Contact our office at 773-697-8119 or schedule your consultation online to learn more about how custom mouth guards can help preserve your oral health for years to come.
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