Grinding or clenching your teeth at night is a condition known as bruxism. Unfortunately, most patients don’t even realize they are grinding their teeth at night until Dr. Busch-Abbate notices worn or chipped tooth enamel.
If you wake up with tooth or jaw pain, it’s time to request an appointment with our Kalamazoo dentist.
Our dentist will be able to determine whether you would benefit from wearing a night guard for teeth grinding.
What Are Night Guards?
A , also called an occlusal guard, is an oral appliance you wear over your teeth while you sleep. The night guard works by forming a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Some people report less frequent headaches and less problems with their jaw joints, head, and neck muscles.
How Do I Know If I Need a Night Guard?
Do you wake up with a toothache or sore jaw? If so, this could be a sign you’re grinding your teeth at night. If you have a partner, they may also hear your teeth squeak as you clench or grind your teeth.
Do Night Guards Really Work?
Yes, night guards for teeth grinding really work. The night guard fits over your upper or lower teeth, preventing them from making contact with your other teeth. Many patients are able to avoid serious consequences of teeth grinding by wearing their night guards. For example, a teeth grinding guard can prevent chipped, cracked, or even fractured teeth.
What to Expect
It will take two visits to our office to get your teeth grinding guard. First, Dr. Busch-Abbate will need to record a digital scan of your upper and lower teeth, as well as your bite. The lab will then make your night guard from the digitally scanned model.
When you return for your second appointment, your will be ready to pick up. Yet, our dentist will still need to check that your new oral appliance fits well and may make adjustments if needed.
Learn More
Dr. Stephanie Busch-Abbate is a Kalamazoo, MI, night guard dentist who can help you minimize the damage caused by your teeth grinding. To request an appointment, call Gentle Dentistry at (269) 381-3890.