Do you or someone you know use a white noise machine to fall asleep? Many people find the constant din of raindrops, waves, or forest noises calming and relaxing. However, nobody sets their white noise machine to the sound of grinding teeth to relax. If you grind your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism, you’re making extra nocturnal noise and causing unnecessary harm to your tooth enamel and oral health. If this sounds like you, you’re far from alone—approximately 22% of the population grinds their teeth in their sleep. Many patients are frustrated by the impacts of bruxism, which include waking up with headaches, a sore jaw, and even chipped or cracked teeth. An effective and affordable way to counteract nocturnal teeth grinding is with a custom mouthguard from Dr. David Ney, the Dental Guy.
A Custom Mouthguard Can Protect Your Teeth Day and Night
Custom mouthguards are personalized oral devices that fit snugly between your two rows of teeth. They come in two main varieties—night guards to prevent teeth grinding and mouthguards to prevent injuries during contact sports.
Night guards typically consist of softer, more pliable plastic that is more comfortable to wear throughout the night. They cover only the bite surfaces of the teeth.
Sports mouthguards, on the other hand, are bulkier and cover both your teeth and your gums. They are made from harder plastic, which helps them absorb shocks from impact.
The primary function of a custom mouthguard is to prevent teeth from damage. While you typically wear night guards while you sleep, you can also wear them during the day to stop unconscious teeth grinding that may erode your enamel. However, they are ideal for nighttime when you have little control over what your body does while you’re sleeping. This unconscious assistance makes the protection offered by night guards essential for those who suffer from bruxism.
The Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard
When worn at night, a custom mouthguard not only protects your teeth but promotes better sleep and a more enjoyable morning. Here’s what you can look forward to with our personalized mouthpieces:
- Safeguards your teeth: Custom mouthguards serve as a protective barrier, keeping your upper and lower teeth from contacting each other. This barrier stops the wear and tear caused by grinding, helping your teeth stay healthy.
- Prevents headaches: Constant grinding and teeth clenching can trigger headaches in the morning. Wearing custom mouthguards greatly reduces the likelihood of feeling that throbbing sensation in your temples when you wake up.
- Lessens jaw tension and TMJ discomfort: Waking up with jaw tension can feel like you’ve been chewing taffy all night. Custom mouthguards significantly alleviate this tension and provide relief from the symptoms of TMJ disorder.
- Encourages better sleep: Custom mouthguards contribute to better sleep by eliminating the physical and auditory disturbances of grinding. Certain types of night guards can also help prevent or reduce snoring, allowing for deeper and more restorative rest for you and your sleep partner.
- Prevents future problems: Investing in custom mouthguards can decrease the likelihood of future dental issues that might stem from teeth grinding. Fewer complications mean fewer treatments and, ultimately, cost savings over time.
How Much Does a Night Guard Cost?
We realize that finances play a part in medical and dental decisions. Dental insurance may cover some of the cost of devices that help with teeth grinding. Our experienced staff, led by Office Manager Miranda Presley, will work with your insurance company to determine the extent of your coverage and file a claim on your behalf. If needed, we also partner with financing companies to provide flexible payment plans, making our services affordable to every budget.
See the Difference a Custom Mouthguard Can Make!
If you’re sick of dealing with the symptoms of teeth grinding, there’s hope. Contact Dr. Ney to schedule a free consultation and discover how custom mouthguards could be your key to sound sleep and optimal oral health. Say goodbye to teeth grinding and hello to a peaceful, restful slumber.
