A peaceful night's sleep is essential to overall well-being. Unfortunately, for millions of people who grind their teeth and clench their jaws excessively while sleeping, bedtime is actually quite chaotic.
Dental nightguards act as custom-made shields for these individuals’ smiles, protecting them from the harmful effects of conditions like bruxism, teeth grinding, and jaw clenching. These devices, worn during sleep, are a simple yet highly effective method for preventing tooth damage and reducing muscle tension.
Today, we’re exploring the underrated importance of dental nightguards to oral and overall health!
What Are Dental Nightguards and How Do They Work?
Dental nightguards, also known as bite (or “occlusal”) splints, are custom-fitted oral devices designed to protect a person’s teeth and jaw from the damaging effects of grinding, clenching, or misalignment. These devices work by creating a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing the grinding action that can wear down enamel and make teeth more susceptible to damage. Additionally, nightguards are an excellent way to alleviate tension and pain in the jaw by promoting a more relaxed jaw position during sleep.
Common Issues Dental Nightguards Address
Dental nightguards are primarily used to address the following issues:
- Bruxism. Nightguards reduce adverse effects of bruxism, like tooth wear, fractures, and sensitivity.
- Teeth grinding. Individuals who grind their teeth at night can protect their enamel and bite integrity with the help of nightguards.
- Jaw clenching. Nightguards alleviate muscle tension and minimize discomfort associated with excessive jaw clenching.
- TMJ disorders. For some patients, nightguards offer relief from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can result in pain and limited jaw movement.
The Benefits of Dental Nightguards
The myriad benefits of using dental nightguards include:
- Tooth protection. Nightguards safeguard teeth from wear, chips, and fractures.
- Pain relief. Nightguards reduce pain associated with jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and TMJ disorders.
- Improved sleep. By preventing the discomfort of grinding and clenching, nightguards contribute to improved sleep.
- Long-term cost savings. Dental nightguards can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for extensive (and expensive) dental repairs.
As always, consult with your dentist to confirm that nightguards are the right choice for your specific needs.
Dental Nightguards in Chico, CA
If you’re in the Chico area and think you may suffer from any of the conditions we highlighted above and think dental nightguards may be right for you, contact dentist Dr. Daniel Surh and the South Chico Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!