Do you grind your teeth at night without even realizing it? Many individuals practice it, which can gradually hurt their teeth and jaw. If you want to protect your smile while you sleep, consider using night guards in SW Calgary. These devices form a barrier between the upper and lower teeth in the mouth. They help reduce tooth wear and prevent discomfort.
Night guards are especially helpful if you notice morning jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth. Your dentist in SW Calgary can examine your mouth to determine if a night guard is right for you and help you choose the best type for your needs.
How Night Guards Work
A custom-fitted night guard for teeth grinding is made just for your mouth. A custom guard, unlike a store-bought one, fits tightly over your teeth, providing you with full protection. That is to say, they help in the following ways:
- Absorb Pressure: The force of grinding and clenching is eased.
- Prevent Chips and Cracks: Keeps the enamel safe from wear and tear.
- Reduce Jaw Pain: Helps alleviate the strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
- Improve Sleep: Helps to eliminate the pain or discomfort that can interrupt sleep.
Prevent Dental Costs in the Future: Keeps you from having to pay for costly repairs due to worn or broken teeth.
Signs You Might Need a Night Guard
Not everyone realizes they grind their teeth. Common signs include:
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Jaw soreness or clicking
- Frequent headaches or earaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Indentations on the tongue
If you experience any of these symptoms, visiting a dental clinic near you can help diagnose the problem and provide the right solution.
Types of Night Guards
There are several types of night guards near you available, and your dentist can recommend the best one for your habits:
| Night Guard Type | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Guards | Mild grinding | Comfortable and flexible |
| Hard Guards | Severe grinding | Maximum protection |
| Dual Laminate | Moderate to severe | Soft inside, hard outside for comfort & strength |
Tips for Using and Caring for Your Night Guard
Here’s how to keep your night guard clean and working well:
- Brush it every day with a toothbrush and mild soap or cleanser.
- Rinse it before and after wearing it.
- Please keep it in a ventilated case to stop bacteria from growing.
- Don’t chew on it or leave it near heat.
- Visit your dentist to check for any dental problems instead of trying to fix them yourself.
Following these steps will help protect your teeth and extend the life of your night guard.
How Night Guards Prevent Tooth Damage
The main goal of a night guard is to prevent permanent damage. By wearing a night guard, you:
- Protect enamel from grinding.
- Reduce the risk of cracked or chipped teeth.
- Keep your bite aligned.
- Lower stress on jaw joints (TMJ)
- Improve overall oral comfort and health.
Even if you only grind your teeth occasionally, a night guard can help save you from costly dental treatments in the future.
Protect Your Smile with a Custom Night Guard!
Keep teeth protected from grinding for a pain-free morning. Schedule an appointment today with your Richmond Dental Clinic to receive a custom-fitted night guard that will protect your smile for years.
📍 Come see us today! Find Richmond Dental Clinic on Google Maps.
FAQs
What are night guards, and how do they work?
Night guards are custom or store-bought devices that fit over your teeth to protect them from grinding and clenching while you sleep.
How long do custom night guards last?
With proper care, custom night guards usually last 1 to 3 years before needing replacement.
Can I wear a night guard if I have braces or dental work?
Yes, but your dentist may recommend a specially designed night guard to fit around braces or other dental work.
Are store-bought night guards as effective as dentist-made ones?
Store-bought guards offer basic protection, but dentist-made custom night guards provide a better fit, comfort, and stronger security.