Has your dentist said you should consider looking into night guards in Calgary? You may perhaps be grinding or clenching your teeth at night, and you have wondered if a night guard would be helpful. Understandably, some patients are skeptical about this device; thinking do I really need it? You may be one these people, or you may not be but when you visit your dental office in SW Calgary, you can determine if a night guard would be something that is beneficial. Until your visit, continue reading to learn more about what night guards are and what they actually entail.
What Are Night Guards?
A night guard in Calgary is a device that is placed in your mouth on top of your teeth to help with grinding and clenching at night. Grinding is the moving of the jaw back and forth, whereas clenching is biting down with pressure for an extended period. Wearing the guard, acts as a protective barrier between your top and bottom teeth. These devices are also known as occlusal guards, occlusal splints or bite splints. Typically, the guard is made of plastic and covers some or all of the upper or lower teeth. In most cases, guards will only cover your top teeth. However, if you wear braces, or have another dental appliance your dentist near you can provide you with a guard for your lower teeth also. A night guard will re-establish your natural space and protect your teeth from grinding or clenching together, which can lead to chips and cracks in your teeth as well as straining your jaw muscles.
It is important to note that a mouth guard will not stop you from grinding or clenching your teeth, but it will serve as a cushion so that your teeth wear down the guard rather than your teeth becoming worn themselves. Additionally, night guards near you will give your jaw a rest while you sleep and can help your sleep partner have a more restful sleep also.
Why Do People Wear Them?
People wear mouth guards when they suffer from bruxism- the act of grinding or clenching your teeth. This condition occurs when you are sleeping or under stress. It is a common behaviour so just know if you deal with this problem daily, you are not alone. On the other hand, you may not know if you grind your teeth and in most cases, people remain unsure. Fortunately, your dentist in Calgary can confirm whether you have bruxism. When you grind your teeth, they will begin to lose their protective outer layer– the enamel. When your enamel is lost, it cannot be replaced and this can cause a lot of damage like cavities. When you wear a night guard, you will be able to breathe easily and speak normally. Your night guard should be comfortable and keep your teeth in place.
Is Wearing a Night Guard My Only Option?
No, when you visit your dental office in SW Calgary, you can gain more insight into your treatment options. Here are some things to consider to prevent or lessen your teeth grinding or clenching:
· Limit your consumption of caffeine and alcohol.
· Quit smoking. It is especially important to avoid this before bed.
· Implement relaxation techniques before you sleep, such as listening to soft music, meditating or doing some yoga.
How Will a Night Guard Help Me?
Wearing a night guard regularly can:
· Provide you with a good night’s sleep.
· Eliminate morning headaches.
· Stop jaw aches.
· Prevent you from damaging your teeth, restorations, dentures, and from causing dental problems.
If you are interested in night guards near you, schedule an appointment at a dental office in Calgary.