What Are Night Guards?
Teeth grinding at night, also known as bruxism, is a common issue that affects many men and women. Even though the most visible sign of damage is deterioration of the surface of the teeth, nocturnal bruxism might also lead to inflammation, headaches, tooth pain, and discomfort in your neck and jaw. To protect your mouth from these effects of bruxism, we provide customized night guards that help defend your teeth while you sleep. Custom night guards are created with high-grade materials that fit comfortably in your mouth and help improve your sleep by diminishing jaw clenching and teeth grinding. For more information about custom night guards at Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC, schedule an appointment at our Saginaw, MI dental practice.
How Do Night Guards Work?
After you have been diagnosed with bruxism, impressions and digital oral x-rays will be obtained to create your custom night guard. Next, your specifications will be sent to a dental laboratory where your specialized night guard will be made of the best materials. When your night guard is complete and sent back to our office, you will return to our office for a fitting. Minor adjustments may be made so that your guard fits comfortably. You will also be given directions on how to care for your night guard so it will last many years.
What Are the Benefits of Night Guards?
At Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC, night guards offer numerous health benefits, particularly for those experiencing teeth grinding or clenching. Some of these advantages include:
- Decreasing jaw and neck pain and soreness in the morning
- Elevating the lifespan and durability of tooth restorations
- Elevating the comprehensive quality of sleep by minimizing disruptions
- Decreasing head pain and migraines related to clenching at night
- Allowing the jaw to relax throughout the night
- Reduces the need for costly oral treatments in the future
- Safeguarding teeth from clenching during the night
Benjamin Lievense, DDS Reviews
Dr. Ben and Meghan were so kind and made my visit so comfortable! Best teeth cleaning and care of my life. I highly recommend them to anyone!
This office is kind, professional and knowledgeable. From day one there were no questions because they swiftly handled everything and explained the process of the plan of care at the beginning and along the way. The appointments are taken very seriously by this practice, they're not wasted . Each one has a purpose aimed at completing the plan and for customer care and satisfaction, that's very much appreciated.
It’s always a positive experience getting my teeth cleaned. Gayle is just the best.
I needed a cracked molar repaired and a root canal finished off with a crown.Doctor Ben was able to do all the work at his office with his exceptional staff.I would highly recommend them!Thanks
Well taken of dr ben and staff was a better experience this time
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Best Candidates
Night guards can help protect your teeth if you clench or grind during sleep. These custom appliances cushion the bite, relieve tension, and prevent enamel damage. You may be an excellent candidate for a dental night guard if you're experiencing one or more of the following:
- Morning jaw soreness or stiffness
- Headaches or ear pain
- Flattened or chipped teeth
- Popping or clicking in the jaw
- Discomfort while chewing
During a thorough consultation and dental exam, Dr. Lievense will evaluate your bite, jaw alignment, and level of grinding to determine whether moving forward with a custom dental night guard may be an appropriate step for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to wear a night guard every night?
Yes, wearing a night guard every night is generally safe and recommended for individuals who grind their teeth regularly. Consistent use helps protect your teeth from damage and reduces strain on your jaw muscles. If you experience any discomfort or changes in your bite, consult your dentist to ensure your night guard fits correctly.
Can I wear a night guard if I have braces or dental implants?
Yes, you can wear a night guard if you have braces, dental implants, or other dental restorations. However, it's crucial to have a custom-made night guard designed to accommodate these dental appliances. We will take impressions of your mouth to create a night guard that fits comfortably and provides adequate protection without interfering with your dental work.
How should I clean and store my night guard?
To maintain your night guard, rinse it with cool water after each use and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and damage the material. Store your night guard in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth. Regularly inspect your night guard for signs of wear or damage and bring it to your dental appointments for professional cleaning and evaluation.
Custom Night Guards
Teeth grinding can cause pain and discomfort in a variety of ways. Night guards are a safe option to diminish the stress created by the unpleasant symptoms of nocturnal bruxism and jaw clenching. Customized night guards from Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC can also advance the overall health of your mouth and ward off future complications. If you think that night guards may benefit you or are interested in learning more, contact our team in Saginaw, MI to schedule an appointment.