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Night Guards
Night guards are custom-made devices provided by our Largo, FL, dentist to shield your teeth from the damage that grinding and clenching during sleep can cause. These guards also help reduce jaw tension and alleviate associated discomfort like dull headaches or other related facial pain. By fitting snugly over your teeth, night guards ensure a comfortable sleep while safeguarding your dental health.
Learn more about how a night guard can benefit you while you rest.
What Is Bruxism?
, commonly known as teeth grinding, is a condition where one clenches or grinds their teeth unconsciously, often during sleep. While occasional teeth grinding may not cause significant harm, chronic bruxism can lead to a variety of oral health issues. Many people are unaware of their grinding habits until symptoms appear, such as jaw pain, headaches, or damage to the teeth. Night guards are a preventative tool designed to protect the teeth and jaw from the effects of grinding.
Dental Issues That Night Guards Prevent
can help prevent several serious dental issues associated with bruxism. These include:
- Tooth Wear and Damage: Constant grinding can wear down the surface of the teeth, leading to dental sensitivity and the loss of the protective enamel. Over time, this can result in chipped, fractured, or loose teeth.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Bruxism can strain the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull, causing pain, clicking sounds, or even locking of the jaw.
- Gum Recession: The excessive force of grinding can also cause the gums to recede. This gum recession can expose the roots of the teeth, leading to increased sensitivity and risk of decay.
- Headaches and Facial Pain: Frequent teeth grinding can result in chronic headaches, earaches, and facial pain due to the tension placed on the muscles in the jaw and face.
Night guards from our Largo, FL, dental office act as a barrier between the teeth, distributing the pressure from grinding and preventing the upper and lower teeth from coming into direct contact. This not only protects the teeth but also reduces the strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
Get Fitted for a Night Guard
The most effective type of night guard is one that’s custom made for you by our dentist in Largo, FL. Personalized night guards are designed to fit the unique contours of your mouth, providing comfort and protection without hindering your ability to breathe or speak. Call or text David W. Piper, DMD Family Dentistry today at (727) 548-7100 to request an appointment and get started.