Night Mouth Guard
Salem, OR
 There is nothing as important to us as your continued oral health and hygiene. Long lasting dental health not only saves money but preserves the beauty of your natural smile. Your overall health is so closely connected to your oral health that often minor changes in one can vastly affect the other.
Night mouth guards are an important tool that we use at Fairmount Dental Center to ensure not only your continued oral health, but your overall health.
There are a few varied reasons why we typically end up prescribing and creating mouth guards for our patients. The obvious reason is bruxism (AKA tooth grinding), which is usually an issue that arises at night when you are sleeping. The other reason we prescribe night mouth guards is to combat sleep apnea in patients who have a hard time with waking frequently and breathing at night.
Bruxism
It is a common occurrence that when we tell a patient that they show signs of bruxism they are confused. “But I don’t grind my teeth,” is a common response. People think that tooth grinding is a habit that is usually done during the day, like biting your nails. While plenty of people do make a habit out of grinding their teeth, the vast majority of those who do, do so without even knowing it - during their sleep.
Bruxism will often leave you with a sore jaw (temporomandibular joint TMJ). Sometimes tooth sensitivity is an issue for those suffering from bruxism. Sometimes there are no noticeable side effects. It can lead to tooth degradation in the form of chipping and cracking, headaches, tooth pain, and even tooth failure.
A night mouth guard from our office will last a long time, much longer than mouth guards that can be bought over-the-counter. They are specially designed to fit your mouth perfectly and will do a much better job at fighting the effects of bruxism.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition where, due to a number of factors, a person will stop breathing for a short period of time while they sleep. Often after 15 to 20 seconds of going without air, a person will be brought out of their sleep cycle to gasp for air. This can wreak havoc on your sleep schedule because your body is never allowed to enter those stages of deep sleep where you get the rest you really need.
Many times, sleep apnea is caused because of the way the head is positioned during sleep. When the head is allowed to sit back, the rear roof of the mouth will come very close to the tongue in the back of the mouth. This narrows the airway significantly. When a special mouth guard is placed in the mouth, it forces the jaw into a more open position, which prevents the airway from narrowing.
FAQ's About Night Mouth Guards
How does a night mouth guard help with teeth grinding? A night mouth guard creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from coming into direct contact while you sleep. This helps reduce wear and tear caused by grinding, alleviates jaw tension, and can minimize headaches and facial pain associated with bruxism.
Can a night mouth guard help with TMJ disorder? Yes, a properly fitted night mouth guard can help relieve symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder by reducing stress on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. By preventing clenching and grinding, a night guard can ease jaw pain, clicking, and discomfort associated with TMJ dysfunction.
How long does a night mouth guard last? The lifespan of a night mouth guard depends on factors such as the material, the severity of teeth grinding, and how well it is maintained. Custom-made night guards typically last several years, while over-the-counter options may need to be replaced more frequently. Regular dental checkups can help determine when a replacement is needed.
What is the difference between a custom night guard and an over-the-counter night guard? A custom night guard is designed specifically for your mouth using dental impressions, providing a precise and comfortable fit. Over-the-counter night guards are one-size-fits-all or boil-and-bite options that may not offer the same level of protection, durability, or comfort as a custom-made guard.
How do I clean my night mouth guard? To clean your night mouth guard, rinse it with lukewarm water after each use and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material. Store it in a ventilated case and periodically soak it in a dental appliance cleaner for a deeper clean.
Can a night mouth guard shift my teeth? A properly fitted night mouth guard should not shift your teeth. However, ill-fitting or over-the-counter guards may apply uneven pressure, potentially leading to minor tooth movement over time. A custom-made guard from your dentist ensures a secure fit and optimal protection.
How do I know if I need a new night mouth guard? Signs that you may need a new night mouth guard include visible wear and tear, cracks, discomfort, or changes in fit. If your guard no longer provides the same level of protection or comfort, consult your dentist for a replacement.
Can I wear a night mouth guard if I have braces? Yes, you can wear a specially designed night mouth guard if you have braces. Your dentist can create a custom-fit guard that accommodates your orthodontic treatment while still protecting your teeth from grinding and clenching.
How much does a night mouth guard cost? The cost of a night mouth guard depends on factors such as whether it is custom-made or store-bought. Custom night guards tend to be more expensive due to their durability and precise fit. Your dentist can provide a cost estimate based on your needs, and payment options may be available.
Is a night mouth guard covered by insurance? Some dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost of a night mouth guard, especially if it is deemed medically necessary for conditions like bruxism or TMJ disorder. Check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage options.
Schedule with Your Dentists in Salem, OR Today!
Please call us today at (503) 362-8364 to schedule an appointment. Remember, if you wake up in the morning with jaw pain or can never seem to get enough sleep to feel well-rested, come in to see us as this may be a sign of something more serious. |
