Say Goodbye to Teeth Grinding: The Benefits of Night Guards
A night guard is crucial for individuals grappling with teeth grinding, a condition medically termed as bruxism. This habitual grinding of teeth during sleep can wreak havoc on your dental health over time, leading to noticeable enamel wear, heightened tooth sensitivity, and potentially even fractures. Beyond dental concerns, bruxism often manifests in jaw pain, persistent headaches, and muscle tension, impacting overall comfort and well-being. Fortunately, a night guard serves as a protective shield, intercepting the abrasive contact between the upper and lower teeth. By forming a barrier, it effectively mitigates the risk of enamel damage and the discomfort associated with bruxism. Embracing the regular use of a night guard not only fosters better oral health but also provides relief from pain, facilitating a more rejuvenating and uninterrupted night’s sleep.
How to Get A Night Guard
Seeing a dentist for a night guard typically involves several steps to ensure that the guard fits well and addresses issues like teeth grinding (bruxism) or TMJ disorders. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
Consultation & Examination
During your consultation, your dentist will discuss your symptoms, like teeth grinding or jaw pain, and review your dental health history, including sleep habits and potential bruxism triggers. Following this, a comprehensive dental examination will assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw, checking for signs of teeth grinding such as worn enamel or damaged teeth.
Fitting
Impressions are taken using dental putty or digital scanning technology to create a mould for your custom night guard. Working with a dental lab, your dentist will fabricate the guard, and upon its completion, you’ll return for a fitting. During this fitting, your dentist will ensure the night guard fits securely and comfortably in your mouth.
Instructions & Follow Up
Following the fitting, your dentist will provide comprehensive instructions on wearing and caring for your night guard, including lifestyle tips to alleviate teeth grinding. Additionally, they may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal symptom relief and protection.
Getting a night guard can be a straightforward process that offers significant relief from the discomfort and dental damage associated with teeth grinding. Regular communication and follow-up with your dentist will ensure that you get the most benefit from using a night guard.
How Much Is A Night Guard In Niagara?
The cost of a custom night guard can fluctuate based on individual needs and insurance coverage. On average, with insurance, it ranges between $100 to $300+, while without insurance, it typically falls between $650 to $750 and beyond.
Two primary factors influence the cost:
- Material: The type of material used for the night guard affects pricing.
- Orthodontic Considerations: Additional factors, such as ongoing orthodontic treatment, may influence the final cost.
Remember, receiving an accurate quote requires an in-person consultation and oral exam. Dental practices cannot provide precise estimates over the phone due to the unique nature of each patient’s needs. If you have dental insurance, we’re happy to provide a quote for submission to your provider to determine out-of-pocket expenses beforehand.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Night guards prevent wear and damage to teeth caused by bruxism, alleviate jaw pain, and promote better sleep.
Yes, there are custom-fit, boil-and-bite, and over-the-counter night guards, each offering varying levels of comfort and protection.
While a night guard can’t cure bruxism, it can significantly reduce its effects by preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact.
Rinse your night guard with cool water after each use and brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid hot water and abrasive cleaners to prevent damage.
Night guards can be beneficial for children who grind their teeth, but it’s essential to consult with a pediatric dentist for proper evaluation and recommendation.
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