Do you feel like you’re clenching your teeth at night or grinding your teeth? Are you waking up with pain? I’m Dr. Rachel Miro. I’m a dentist here at Dental Implant and Aesthetic Specialist, and today, I’m going to go through what a night guard is and exactly how we can make one for you.
What is a Night Guard for Your Teeth?
You’re probably wondering what a night guard is. A night guard is an appliance that we make custom to you, that you put on your teeth while you sleep at night, and it helps you with your clenching and your grinding. In addition, it also helps reduce the pain that you’re waking up with every morning. A lot of things can cause you to clench your teeth and grind your teeth at night. Sometimes it can be stress; sometimes, it can be medications that you’re taking, and then sometimes, it could just be a bad habit.
Process for Getting a Custom Night Guard
Whatever the reason it is, why are you clenching and grinding your teeth at night? Night guards are a great solution. The process for getting a night guard is simple and easy. First, you come into our office, and we do a proper evaluation of your teeth and of your muscles. That helps us decide which night guard is best for you. After that, we use our 3D scanner to scan your teeth. This allows us to get a 3D model of not only your teeth but also the way your teeth interact with one another. The uppers hit the lowers uniquely to each patient. Then it takes about one week for us to process that night guard for you. When you come back in for your second appointment, we’ll have that custom night guard ready for you. We’ll go ahead, try it on, make any adjustments necessary, and make sure that you are comfortable.
How Often Do You Need to Wear Your Night Guard?
A lot of patients wonder how often I need to wear my night guard. Really, the recommendation is that you wear it every night, and as you start wearing it more and more, you become accustomed to wearing it. But the truth is that sometimes you forget, and that’s okay. As long as you’re wearing your night guard most nights, you’re going to be in great shape. And remember, most nights mean around five nights a week. If you need a night guard, you’re not alone. About 80% of our patient population has to sleep with night guards. Whether it be for grinding, clenching, or TMJ problems, you’re not alone. An over-the-counter night guard can work. It’s not the right solution. A custom night guard one is smaller. It’s more comfortable, and it’s made just for you. It takes your bite, your muscles, and your joints into consideration. Therefore, a custom night guard is really what you need.
Call Today to Get Started
If you are grinding or clenching your teeth or have TMJ problems, you are still not convinced that a custom night guard is what you need. Sometimes I try to think about it like this. It’s like going into a suit store and just buying a random suit versus getting a suit tailored to you that’s unique to you. A custom night guard is unique to you. It’s made for you. Your teeth and your jaw muscles are unique to you. Therefore, a custom night guard is what’s needed. If you’re clenching or grinding your teeth, or you’re waking up with pain in the morning, and you need a night guard, reach out to us. We’re here to help. I’m Dr. Rachel Miro, and I’m here to help you.