Nightguards
 Protecting your Teeth
Nightguards (or mouth splints) are custom-fitted plastic appliances that are worn over the teeth to protect them from damage due to clenching or grinding (a condition known as Bruxism).
Bruxism is usually associated with stress, but can be related to sleep disorders or a poor bite (often the result of multiple missing or crooked teeth). Because it usually occurs during sleep, it can go unnoticed for years.
Common symptoms of bruxism include headaches, tired or sore facial muscles upon wakening, and cracked or sensitive teeth.
- Extensive grinding can cause severe wear of tooth enamel, making the teeth appear shorter and flattened. (Less enamel also means increased tooth sensitivity.)
- Left untreated, bruxism can eventually result in serious damage to the teeth that may require extensive restorative procedures to repair.
- Nightguards (or biteguards) are sometimes recommended as part of jaw muscle-joint therapy to treat dysfunctional jaw joint movement.
As part of your complete dental examination, Dr. Rodriguez will evaluate both temporomandibular jaw joints (TMJ) and each tooth surface to observe for signs of distress and address any problems as needed to keep to your teeth and jaw joints healthy and pain-free.
Do you grind and clench your teeth during sleep? Don’t postpone treatment - Contact Us to learn more about nightguards.
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