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A night guard is a custom-fitted dental device designed to protect your teeth from the harmful effects of grinding or clenching during sleep, a condition known as bruxism. Bruxism can lead to a range of dental issues, including worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, and even fractures.
Night guards act as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the pressure and preventing damage. They are typically crafted from durable plastic materials to ensure both comfort and effectiveness. By wearing a night guard, individuals can alleviate jaw pain, reduce headaches, and protect their teeth from long-term wear and tear, ultimately promoting better oral health.
Consultation and Assessment
The journey to obtaining a night guard begins with a comprehensive consultation and assessment at our office in Billerica. During this initial visit to North Billerica Smiles, our experienced dental professionals will discuss your symptoms, concerns, and oral health history. This is a crucial step as it helps us determine if a night guard is the appropriate solution for your needs.We will also conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaw, and bite to assess any signs of bruxism or related dental issues. This personalized approach ensures that we understand your unique situation and can tailor the night guard to provide maximum comfort and effectiveness. Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming and informative environment, so you feel at ease throughout the process.
Custom Impressions
Once we have determined that a night guard is the right choice for you, the next step involves taking custom impressions of your teeth. This is a simple and painless procedure where we use dental putty or a digital scanner to capture the precise shape and contours of your teeth and bite. These impressions are essential for crafting a night guard that fits snugly and comfortably in your mouth. A well-fitting night guard is crucial for ensuring that it stays in place during sleep and provides optimal protection. Our skilled technicians at North Billerica Smiles take great care in creating a mold that accurately reflects your dental structure, guaranteeing a perfect fit.
Fabrication and Fitting
After obtaining the impressions, our dental laboratory will fabricate your custom night guard using high-quality materials. This process typically takes a few weeks, during which we ensure that every detail is meticulously crafted to meet your specific needs. Once the night guard is ready, you will return to our office for a fitting appointment. During this visit, we will ensure that the night guard fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments to optimize its performance. Our goal is to provide you with a night guard that not only protects your teeth but also feels natural and unobtrusive while you sleep. We will also provide instructions on how to care for and maintain your night guard to ensure its longevity.
Protection Against Tooth Damage
One of the primary benefits of using a night guard is the protection it offers against tooth damage caused by grinding and clenching. Bruxism can lead to significant wear and tear on your teeth, resulting in enamel erosion, chips, and even fractures over time. By wearing a night guard, you create a protective barrier that absorbs the forces exerted during grinding, preventing direct contact between your upper and lower teeth. This not only preserves the integrity of your teeth but also reduces the risk of costly dental repairs in the future. Night guards are an effective preventative measure, safeguarding your smile from the damaging effects of bruxism.
Alleviation of Jaw Pain and Headaches
Bruxism often leads to discomfort in the jaw and frequent headaches, particularly upon waking. A night guard can help alleviate these symptoms by reducing the pressure on the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). By providing a cushion between the teeth, the night guard minimizes the strain on these areas, promoting relaxation and reducing tension. Many individuals who use night guards report a significant reduction in jaw pain and headaches, leading to improved sleep quality and overall well-being. At North Billerica Smiles, we prioritize your comfort and aim to enhance your quality of life through effective dental solutions.
Improved Sleep Quality
In addition to protecting your teeth and alleviating pain, night guards can contribute to better sleep quality. Bruxism can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to restless nights and fatigue during the day. By wearing a night guard, you can minimize the disturbances caused by grinding and clenching, allowing for a more restful and uninterrupted sleep. Improved sleep quality has a positive impact on your overall health, boosting your energy levels, mood, and cognitive function. At North Billerica Smiles, we understand the importance of a good night's sleep and are committed to helping you achieve it through our custom-fitted night guards.
Please call 978.262.0023 or click below to set-up an appointment online.