Dental Night Guards
Dental night guards are custom-made devices worn at night to protect against teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism). Made from soft, comfortable material, they fit snugly over the teeth, cushioning and preventing damage.
These devices help alleviate dental issues related to bruxism, such as tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, headaches, and worn teeth. They are recommended for those diagnosed with bruxism or showing symptoms like worn teeth, sore jaw muscles, or headaches in the morning.
To get a night guard, visit your dentist for an impression of your teeth to create a custom fit. Your dentist will also provide care instructions for the device.
While night guards are generally safe and effective, they may not suit everyone. Patients with gum disease or loose teeth might not be good candidates, and some may also find it uncomfortable to sleep with the device.
If you’re considering a night guard for bruxism, consult your dentist at Amazing Smiles. They will evaluate your condition and discuss the best treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, dental treatments, or other interventions in addition to the night guard.
Why it's important to get a Dental Splint for teeth grinding
Teeth grinding (bruxism) can cause long-term damage to teeth
Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is when a person clenches or grinds their teeth, often during sleep. While occasional grinding isn’t typically harmful, chronic bruxism can damage teeth, jaws, and other structures. It can wear down enamel, leading to sensitivity, chipping, cracking, and even tooth loss.
Bruxism can cause jaw pain, stiffness, headaches, and earaches, and may contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which result in jaw pain and difficulty moving the mouth.
Dentists often recommend a dental splint or nightguard, custom-made appliances that fit over the teeth to provide protection and reduce damage. However, a splint doesn’t address underlying causes like stress or anxiety. It’s essential to consult a dentist or healthcare professional for personalised treatment options.
Sleeping mouth guards are an investment
Investing in a dental night guard is a wise choice for long-term oral health. Although the initial price may seem high, it is cost-effective compared to the expenses of repairing teeth damaged by bruxism. Grinding and clenching can lead to tooth sensitivity, cracks, and even tooth loss, resulting in costly treatments like fillings or crowns.
A dental night guard is a one-time investment that helps prevent this damage and protects your teeth from wear. Using a dental splint can also save money on future dental work and safeguard your teeth against bruxism’s harmful effects.
Why Choose Us For Dental Night Guards?
At Amazing Smiles Dental Clinics, we know how crucial it is to protect your teeth. Consider a custom-made dental night guard if you grind your teeth due to bruxism.
Our experienced team can provide a night guard tailored to your needs, ensuring comfort and protection as you sleep. It can help you avoid costly dental procedures and alleviate jaw pain and headaches associated with bruxism.
Don’t let teeth grinding harm your oral health. Contact Amazing Smiles Dental Clinics to schedule a consultation and learn how a dental night guard can help you.
What Causes Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth linked to stress, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. It can occur during the day or night and, if untreated, may lead to jaw pain, headaches, and worn teeth.
Key triggers include stress, sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnoea or insomnia, abnormal bites, excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, smoking, and certain medications. High-stress personality traits and rare neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease can also contribute.
Identifying the cause of bruxism is essential to treating it effectively. Treatment options include wearing a night guard, managing stress, and addressing sleep issues.
Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry Procedures After Teeth Grinding
How to Treat Damaged Teeth from Bruxism
FAQ’s
How do I know if a suffer from bruxism?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, often happens during sleep, making it hard to self-diagnose. Look for these signs and symptoms:
- Grinding or clenching sounds during sleep (noted by a partner)
- Frequent morning headaches
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Sore jaw or facial muscles
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tight or tired jaw muscles
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
If you experience any of these, see a dentist. They can examine your teeth and jaw and recommend treatment options, including a custom nightguard, stress management techniques, or relaxation exercises.
Can bruxism be cured or stopped?
Bruxism can often be managed and significantly reduced, but whether it is completely “cured” depends on the underlying cause. For many people, bruxism can improve or stop altogether with the right treatment approach. In other cases, it may be a recurring condition that requires ongoing management.
How do I manage bruxism?
Bruxism caused by stress or anxiety can be managed through psychological support, mindfulness techniques, and lifestyle changes. If it’s linked to sleep disorders, treating conditions like sleep apnoea can improve the situation. For dental or bite alignment issues, orthodontic treatment or bite adjustments may be necessary. Custom-fitted night guards protect teeth during sleep and can significantly reduce symptoms, even if grinding persists.
Is bruxism a permanent condition?
Bruxism is often temporary and can be triggered by stress or short-term health issues. For some, it may be long-lasting and require regular monitoring. While it may not be fully “curable,” bruxism can typically be managed effectively with appropriate intervention.
Can I claim my night guard on health insurance?
If your health insurance includes ‘Extras,’ you can claim one custom-fitted mouthguard yearly. Different health funds offer various rebates, so if you have questions, please get in touch with your nearest Amazing Smiles Dental clinic or your health fund provider directly.
Night Guard Health Fund Item Numbers (these numbers may vary based on your dentist’s recommended treatment):
- 151 Provision of a mouthguard – indirect
Are over-the-counter nightguards good to use?
Yes. Over-the-counter (OTC) guards are fine to use, although they may not be as comfortable to wear due to being generic in size and thickness.
How do I maintain my dental night guard?
Clean your dental nightguard daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Rinse it well and store it in a clean, dry place. Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the nightguard. If it becomes damaged or doesn’t fit properly, consult your dentist for a replacement. Regular dental check-ups are essential to ensure proper fit and effectiveness. Soaking the nightguard in a denture cleaning solution can also aid in its maintenance.
We accept all major health funds
