If you frequently wake up with headaches, sore jaws, or sensitive teeth, the reason could be that you have been grinding your teeth while you sleep. Many patients have bruxism, according to a trusted dentist in Miami, and both nighttime and daytime bruxism can develop into serious dental problems if not professionally managed. One of the most effective ways to be proactive about bruxism is to wear a custom night mouthguard.
Night mouthguards are dental devices that help protect your teeth and jaw from the detrimental effects of grinding and clenching your teeth during the night. But do they all work in the same way? Are they necessary for everyone? This is what dental professionals have to say.
What Is A Night Mouthguard?
A night mouthguard is a removable dental device, typically made of durable plastic, that fits over your upper or lower teeth. Its primary function is to cushion your bite and minimize the wear and tear caused by bruxism. Some mouthguards are available over the counter, but professionally made ones offer a custom fit that improves both comfort and effectiveness.
Professionally designed night mouthguard in Miami is tailored to your bite, ensuring optimal protection and ease of use during sleep. A properly fitted guard can prevent complications such as cracked teeth, jaw tension, enamel erosion, and TMJ disorders.
Signs You Might Need a Night Mouthguard
Bruxism can be difficult to identify until it causes noticeable discomfort or damage. You might benefit from a night mouthguard if you:
- Wake up with sore or stiff jaw muscles
- Have frequent headaches or earaches
- Hear clicking and popping sounds from your jaw
- Have worn-down or chipped teeth
- Experience tooth sensitivity due to enamel loss
If you have any of these symptoms, your dentist will suggest evaluation and a watchful approach and will advise you if they recommend a guard for your mouth.
How A Night Mouthguard Helps
By sleeping with a night mouthguard, you can minimize symptoms of teeth grinding and associated health conditions. It does so in the following manner:
- Protects Teeth: Stops damaging tooth-to-tooth contact leading to chipping and cracking.
- Reduces Jaw Pressure: During clenching, pressure is redirected over a softer surface.
- Improves Sleep Quality: Minimizes intrusions from tension, pain, etc.
- Prevents Complications: Such as TMJ disorders, etc.
Patients report relief from their chronic pain and better sleep when wearing their night mouthguard consistently.
Finding the Right Night Mouthguard Near You
There are some differences between mouthguards. Even though you can buy mouthguards from a store, they’re not necessarily as comfortable or protective. For extended use, dental professionals recommend a guard made for your bite by a dentist near you.
Professionally made mouthguards are made from quality materials, fit perfectly on your unique dental bite, are durable, and will provide protection, and, importantly, they’ll be more comfortable to wear at night.
Maintaining Your Mouthguard
If you would like your guard to last and continue to perform well, there are some basic care tips you can follow:
- Rinse it in cold water after each use
- Clean it with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste only
- Store it in a ventilated case when not in use
- Do not expose it to heat, which can warp the mouthguard material
- Take it to your dental appointment for regular assessments once every year or so.
A mouthguard in proper working order and well-maintained will last for years and will be a critical component of your nightly routine.
Start Sleeping Peacefully With A Custom Mouthguard!
Protect your smile and preserve your dental health; schedule a personalized night mouthguard consultation with the experienced and compassionate team at Caring Dental Services Miami today to ensure lasting comfort, protection, and peace of mind.