Night Guards in Altadena, CA | Summit Dental Arts

Why Are Night Guards Needed?

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Many people grind their teeth during sleep, often without realizing it. This can wear down the enamel, cause fractures, and lead to tooth sensitivity.

Clenching: Clenching the jaw puts pressure on the teeth, which can lead to pain in the jaw, headaches, and wear on the teeth over time.‍

TMJ Disorders: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders often result from or are exacerbated by grinding and clenching. Night guards help reduce stress on your jaw joint.

Symptoms of Bruxism:

Worn Teeth: You may notice flattened or chipped teeth, which are signs of grinding.

Jaw Pain or Stiffness: Tension in the jaw muscles, especially upon waking, is a common symptom.

Headaches: Many people with bruxism experience frequent headaches, particularly in the morning.‍

Tooth Sensitivity: Grinding can wear down the enamel, leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.

Types of Night Guards:

Soft Night Guards: Made of soft, flexible material, these guards are typically used for mild cases of bruxism. They are comfortable but may wear out more quickly than other types.
Hard Night Guards: These are made from a more rigid material and are used for moderate to severe cases of bruxism. Hard night guards are more durable and provide greater protection for your teeth.‍
Dual Laminate Guards: These combine a soft interior for comfort and a hard exterior for durability, making them suitable for moderate cases of grinding and clenching.

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Night Guards:

Custom Night Guards: Custom-made night guards, crafted from molds of your teeth, provide a precise fit and the best protection. They are more expensive but offer superior comfort and effectiveness.‍

Over-the-Counter Night Guards: These are available at most drugstores and are less expensive than custom options. However, they may not fit as well, which can reduce their effectiveness and comfort

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Benefits of Night Guards:

Protecting Teeth: Night guards create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing wear and damage from grinding.

Reducing Jaw Pain: By minimizing clenching and grinding, night guards help alleviate jaw pain and reduce the risk of TMJ disorders.‍

Improving Sleep Quality: Many people who grind their teeth experience disrupted sleep. Wearing a night guard can reduce these disturbances, leading to better rest..

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