Occlusal Night Guards:

Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep

At Northgate Station Dental, we care about your overall oral health and know that nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching can lead to serious dental issues. Occlusal night guards, also known as bite guards or dental guards, are custom-fitted devices designed to protect your teeth and jaw from the harmful effects of bruxism. If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth, an occlusal night guard may be the solution you need to protect your smile.

What is an Occlusal Night Guard?

An occlusal night guard is a custom-made dental device that fits over your upper or lower teeth to prevent the damaging effects of grinding and clenching while you sleep. By providing a cushion between your teeth, the night guard reduces the pressure placed on your teeth and jaw, helping to alleviate discomfort and protect against further damage.

Why Do You Need an Occlusal Night Guard?

Bruxism and clenching can cause various dental and oral health problems if left untreated, including:

  • Tooth Wear and Damage: Constant grinding can wear down tooth enamel, leading to chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.

  • Jaw Pain and Tension: Bruxism can cause soreness in the jaw, neck, and face, as well as tension headaches or migraines.

  • TMJ Disorders: The excessive force exerted on the jaw during grinding and clenching can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which may result in difficulty opening or closing the mouth.

Gum Recession and Tooth Sensitivity: Grinding can put stress on the gums, leading to gum recession and increased tooth sensitivity.

FAQs

  • Wearing a custom occlusal night guard provides several benefits:

    • Prevents Tooth Damage: Night guards protect your teeth from the long-term effects of grinding and clenching by creating a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth.

    • Reduces Jaw Pain and Tension: By relieving pressure on the jaw muscles and joints, night guards can help reduce the discomfort associated with bruxism.

    • Protects Dental Work: If you have crowns, bridges, or other dental restorations, a night guard can protect them from damage caused by grinding.

    • Improves Sleep Quality: Reducing jaw tension and preventing teeth grinding can lead to more restful sleep, as you won’t be waking up due to discomfort or pain.

  • While over-the-counter night guards are available, custom-fitted occlusal guards from Northgate Station Dental provide superior protection, comfort, and effectiveness. Here’s why custom night guards are the better option:

    • Personalized Fit: Custom night guards are made from precise impressions of your teeth, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit that won’t shift or cause discomfort during sleep.

    • Durable and Long-Lasting: Custom night guards are made from high-quality materials designed to withstand the forces of grinding and clenching, making them more durable than store-bought options.

    Better Protection: A properly fitted night guard offers optimal protection by evenly distributing pressure across your teeth, reducing the risk of damage.

  • Getting a custom occlusal night guard at Northgate Station Dental is a simple process:

    1. Consultation and Examination: During your consultation, Dr. Muecke will evaluate your teeth, gums, and jaw to determine if you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism or TMJ issues. If a night guard is recommended, impressions or digital scans of your teeth will be taken.

    2. Fabrication of the Night Guard: The impressions or scans will be sent to a dental lab, where your custom night guard will be crafted to fit your teeth perfectly. The guard will be made from durable, high-quality materials that offer protection and comfort.

    3. Fitting and Adjustment: Once your night guard is ready, you’ll return to our office for a fitting. Dr. Muecke will ensure that the guard fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments to provide the best possible protection.

  • Proper care and maintenance of your night guard are essential for ensuring its longevity and effectiveness:

    • Clean Daily: Rinse your night guard with cool water after each use and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush to remove any plaque or debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material.

    • Store Properly: Keep your night guard in a ventilated case when not in use to allow it to dry and prevent bacterial growth.

    • Inspect Regularly: Check your night guard for signs of wear or damage. If it becomes cracked, worn, or uncomfortable, contact Northgate Station Dental for a replacement.

    • Bring to Dental Check-ups: Bring your night guard to your regular dental appointments so Dr. Muecke can check its condition and ensure it continues to fit properly.