Nightguards
Custom Nightguards in Metuchen, NJ
If you grind your teeth at night, you may be causing damage to your teeth and jaw. Fortunately, there is a simple way to protect your teeth at night: wearing a nightguard.
If you think you may need a nightguard, please contact our dental office so our staff can make you an appointment. Our dentist will be happy to help you find the right nightguard for your needs.
Protect your teeth and jaw today by visiting us to get started on a teeth-grinding solution.
What is a nightguard?
A nightguard is a type of dental appliance that is worn over the teeth during sleep. Nightguards are designed to protect the teeth from clenching and grinding, damaging the tooth enamel and leading to other serious dental problems.
Nightguards work by creating a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which prevents them from coming into contact with each other. They are usually made of a soft material such as silicone or acrylic, which makes them comfortable to wear and does not damage the teeth.
Types of Nightguards
Nightguards come in two main types: over-the-counter and custom-made nightguards. Over-the-counter nightguards are available at most drug stores and online retailers. Custom-made nightguards are made by a qualified dentist or orthodontist and fit precisely to the patient’s teeth.
Over-the-Counter Nightguard
Over-the-counter night guards are generally less expensive than custom-made night guards. They can be purchased without a prescription from various sources, including drugstores and online retailers. However, these are not custom fit for your mouth and may not be as comfortable or practical as a custom-made one.
Custom Nightguard
Custom nightguards are available in various sizes and shapes, and a dentist can make them in our office to fit the individual’s mouth perfectly. They are generally well-tolerated and comfortable to wear when made correctly.
There are three main types of nightguards that we custom-make for patients:
- Soft: These are prescribed to patients who have mild grinding problems. It is not a long-term solution and typically lasts only six months.
- Hard: These are made of more rigid acrylic and prescribed to patients with a more severe grinding issue. They are highly durable but can be more expensive than soft nightguards.
- Dual Laminated: This is a hybrid of soft and hard materials. They are prescribed for heavy grinders and are very durable.
Who can benefit from a nightguard?
Nightguards are often recommended for people who suffer from bruxism, a condition that causes involuntary clenching and grinding of the teeth. However, nightguards can benefit people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) or sleep apnea. In addition, nightguards can help protect teeth from being worn down by bruxism.
What causes teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition that can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. It is estimated that Bruxism affects 10% of the population. The symptoms of bruxism include a dull, constant headache, jaw pain, and earache.
There are two main types of bruxism: night grinding and daytime grinding. Night grinding usually happens during sleep and is the more common type of bruxism. Daytime bruxism usually occurs during times of stress. The exact cause of bruxism is unknown, but it is thought to be related to anxiety or stress. An abnormal bite or misaligned teeth can also contribute to bruxism. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
How Teeth Grinding Affects Healthy Teeth
Grinding your teeth is an issue that many dental patients have. Though many people will see it as a harmless habit, leaving it untreated for an extended period of time can adversely affect your oral health.
- It can damage the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay, cavities, and infection.
- It can cause jaw pain, headaches, and even earaches.
- If left untreated, it can lead to serious dental problems such as tooth loss.
- It can lead to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD).
If you think you may be grinding your teeth, it is essential to contact our office so that you can receive treatment. By addressing teeth grinding, you can protect your oral health and avoid potential discomfort.
Contact Us for a Custom Nightguard
If you are interested in learning about nightguards or getting a custom nightguard, contact our office today for an appointment. Our professional team of dentists will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best solution for current and new patients. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile!