Chronic jaw clenching and grinding one’s teeth is called bruxism. While it can happen any time of day, it often occurs at night causing an individual to wake up with any number of symptoms including jaw pain, headaches, and sore teeth that may feel loose. Although stress and anxiety are the most common causes of bruxism, there may be other contributing factors such as a sleep disorder, an abnormal bite, as well as teeth that are missing or poorly aligned.To alleviate the symptoms of bruxism, wearing a night guard while sleeping is frequently recommended. This appliance is designed to fit over the teeth and to keep the jaws slightly apart. Wearing a night guard prevents a number of damaging events, including muscle strain, excessive pressure on the jaw joint (the TMJ), and such dental damage as chipped or cracked teeth resulting from the teeth grinding against each other. In addition to preventing damage to the soft and hard tissues surrounding the orofacial cavity, a custom night guard fabricated at the dental office can help curb a bruxism habit and give the wearer a better night’s sleep.
Every year millions of cases of dental and facial injuries occur as the result of sport-related trauma. While all sports have some risk of oral injury, it is especially prevalent in recreational activities that involve frequent body contact with other players or the ground, as well as the possibility of being struck by other objects such as, balls, bats, or sticks.One way to significantly reduce the risk of damage to your teeth, cheeks, lips, tongue, face, or jaw as the result of a sports-related injury is to wear a mouthguard. A mouthguard is a removable appliance made of a sturdy plastic that sits comfortably over your teeth. Typically, mouthguards are designed to cover just the top teeth but may also be fabricated to include the lower teeth as well depending on your particular situation. Individuals who wear braces or have some types of dental work may require a specific type of mouthguard that provides more coverage.There are three types of sports mouthguards on the market: pre-formed and ready-to-wear stock mouthguards, boil and bite mouthguards, and custom mouthguards fabricated by your dentist. Our office will help you to select the right sports mouthguard to protect your smile. While the first two choices offer some level of protection, the best and most comfortable mouthguards to safeguard your smile are the ones individually designed and customized by your dentist.
Clear essix retainers are worn at night to prevent teeth from migrating. Our mouths are biologic systems so nothing is completely stationary. Over time, teeth can shift position causing traumatic occlusions and wearing of our tooth surfaces. Clear retainers worn at night will protect your teeth and restorations, as well as, maintain teeth position.
Consult with our doctors to determine which oral appliance may be necessary for your specific dental needs.
Oral appliances typically require two visits. At your first appointment, we use the most advanced technology to take digital impressions of your teeth. This eliminates the need for conventional messy (goopy) impressions. Sports guards and essix retainers are then fabricated in our in-office laboratory, while nightguards take about a month to return from the dental laboratory where they are made.
Once your oral appliance is ready, you will return for a delivery appointment where the doctor or dental assistant will verify its fit and comfort in your mouth. Care instructions will be reviewed with you at this appointment.
