Problems with Teeth Grinding? Protect Your Teeth with a Night Guard
If you wake up each morning with a headache, sore jaw, or sore teeth, the chances are that you are grinding or clenching your teeth as you sleep. Bruxism, aka teeth grinding, is a common dental problem many people are unaware of until their dentist points out the symptoms. Fortunately, resolving teeth grinding issues is relatively simple. At I-Rise Dental, Del Mar, California, we recommend using a night guard for teeth grinding to eliminate headaches and jaw soreness and protect your teeth.
What are the symptoms of bruxism?
Left unchecked, bruxism can damage your teeth. The constant pressure of grinding and clenching your teeth night after night can wear them down or cause them to crack or chip. Bruxism can often be characterized by the following symptoms:
• Constant headaches for no apparent reasons
• Earaches and neck pain
• Tooth pain
• Jaw soreness
• Chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth
• Wear and tear on your teeth
• TMJ disorder
Are there benefits to using a custom night guard for bruxism treatment?
A bruxism dental guard provides a layer of protection between your lower and upper teeth to keep them from grinding as you sleep. It’s an affordable, practical teeth-clenching treatment that protects your teeth.
Although night guards can be purchased in a local store, you benefit more by having one customized for your use. This is done by taking an impression of your teeth and having that impression sent to a lab where custom-fitted night guards are fabricated. A custom-designed night guard will be more comfortable to wear as it will fit perfectly over your teeth.
Customizing your night guard will also improve its performance to get better results from this treatment. By working closely with your Del Mar, California, dentist, Dr. Anu Mohan, to resolve teeth grinding issues, you can eliminate bruxism symptoms, improve the quality of your sleep and protect the integrity of your smile.
Can I get treatment for teeth grinding at a dentist near me in Del Mar, CA?
To learn more about bruxism and bruxism-dental-guard treatment, contact Dr. Anu Mohan from I-Rise Dental in Del Mar, CA, at (858) 465-8717. We are here to meet all your dental care needs.
Frequently asked questions about Night Guard
1. What are night guards, and why are they used?
Night guards are custom-fitted dental appliances worn over the teeth during sleep to protect against grinding (bruxism) or clenching. These habits can cause tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. At I-Rise Dental Boutique, Dr. Anu Mohan designs night guards to fit comfortably and provide a barrier between the teeth, preventing damage. By addressing bruxism with a night guard, you can reduce discomfort, safeguard your teeth, and improve overall oral health while sleeping.
2. What symptoms could indicate I need a night guard?
Symptoms such as jaw pain, morning headaches, tooth sensitivity, or visible tooth wear may indicate teeth grinding or clenching. Dr. Mohan can assess your teeth during an exam at I-Rise Dental Boutique and determine if a night guard is needed. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to cracked teeth, gum recession, or jaw disorders. A custom night guard offers a practical solution to prevent further damage and relieve associated discomfort.
3. What makes custom night guards better than store-bought ones?
Custom night guards are designed to fit your unique dental structure, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Over-the-counter options may not provide the same protection or fit securely, potentially leading to irritation or insufficient coverage. Dr. Mohan creates custom guards at I-Rise Dental Boutique using high-quality materials for durability and precision. This tailored approach ensures your night guard provides maximum protection against bruxism while being comfortable to wear nightly.
4. Can a night guard help with jaw pain?
Yes! Night guards alleviate jaw pain caused by clenching or grinding by reducing pressure on the joints and muscles. Dr. Mohan designs night guards at I-Rise Dental Boutique to create a cushioning effect, preventing excessive strain. By wearing a night guard, you can experience relief from jaw discomfort, improve your sleep quality, and protect your teeth from further damage associated with bruxism.
5. How long do nightguards typically last?
The lifespan of a night guard depends on factors like material quality and the severity of grinding or clenching. Custom night guards from I-Rise Dental Boutique are durable and can last several years with proper care. Regular checkups with Dr. Mohan ensure your night guard remains in good condition and fits correctly. Replacements may be recommended to maintain optimal protection if wear or damage occurs.
6. Are night guards easy to care for?
Night guards are simple to clean and maintain. Dr. Mohan recommends rinsing your guard with warm water after use, gently brushing it with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner, and storing it in a protective case. Periodic deep cleaning and avoiding exposure to heat ensure its longevity. At I-Rise Dental Boutique, Dr. Mohan can provide detailed instructions on night guard care during your consultation.
7. Can night guards help with snoring or sleep apnea?
While night guards primarily address bruxism, some may offer limited relief for mild snoring by repositioning the jaw slightly. For sleep apnea, Dr. Mohan can recommend other specialized oral appliances. At I-Rise Dental Boutique, your concerns about sleep-related issues are taken seriously. Dr. Mohan will evaluate your needs and guide you toward the best solution for improving sleep quality and overall oral health.
Dr. Anu Mohan earned her DDS from the USC in 2014 and was on the Dean’s list.
She enjoys all aspects of dentistry, including implants, crowns, bridges, clear aligners, and cosmetic and special-needs dentistry. She provides modern treatments to her patients in a safe, comfortable, and relaxed environment and adopts a holistic approach to suit every patient’s age and unique needs. She loves building long-lasting relationships with her patients.
Dr. Mohan has been featured in numerous journals and received the TOP General, Family, Implant and Cosmetic Dentist Award from Women in Medicine in 2021.
Connect with Dr. Anu Mohan on Linkedin
