Night Guards in San Diego, CA

Night guards are dental devices designed to protect teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism, a condition characterized by unconscious teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. These custom-made or over-the-counter appliances create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the forces generated by grinding to prevent wear, fractures, and other dental damage. Night guards also help alleviate associated symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and facial muscle soreness, improving sleep quality for the individual and their sleep partner.

By cushioning the teeth and reducing the impact of bruxism, night guards promote oral health, preserve tooth structure, and support overall well-being.  

Types of Night Guards

Custom-Made Night Guards 

Custom-made night guards are crafted by our dentist in San Diego, CA, based on impressions of your teeth. They are individually fabricated to fit snugly and comfortably over your teeth, providing optimal protection. 

Benefits: 

• Custom night guards are tailored to your unique dental structure, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness in preventing teeth grinding. 

• They offer superior cushioning and absorb grinding forces, minimizing wear and tear on teeth and reducing the risk of fractures.  

• Made from durable materials, custom night guards are designed to withstand nightly use over an extended period with proper care. 

Over-the-counter (OTC) Night Guards 

OTC night guards are readily available at pharmacies or online without dental visits. They come in a standard size and are typically made from thermoplastic materials that can be molded to fit your teeth. 

Benefits: 

• OTC night guards are more cost-effective than custom-made options, making them accessible for individuals with mild to moderate bruxism. 

• They can be purchased and used immediately without waiting for a dental appointment, providing quick relief from teeth grinding symptoms.  

• While not as precise as custom guards, OTC night guards provide a barrier between teeth, reducing direct wear and damage from grinding forces. 

Hybrid Night Guards 

Hybrid night guards combine the benefits of custom-fit comfort with the convenience of over-the-counter availability. They often utilize advanced materials that can be adjusted at home for initial fitting. 

Benefits: 

• Hybrid guards allow for customization at home, offering a better fit than standard OTC options while being more affordable than fully custom-made guards. 

• They provide improved comfort compared to standard OTC guards due to the ability to adjust the fit to some extent. 

• Hybrid guards strike a balance between cost and effectiveness, making them a popular choice for individuals seeking better fit and protection without the higher expense of fully custom guards. 

How Do Night Guards Work?  

• Night guards absorb the forces generated by clenching and grinding, distributing them evenly and protecting teeth from wear. 

• They help align the jaws in a position that reduces muscle strain and tension, relieving pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). 

• Night guards prevent direct contact between the upper and lower teeth and reduce the risk of dental damage by creating a physical barrier. Contact us today to learn more! 

The Benefits of Night Guards 

Prevention of Tooth Wear and Damage 

One of the primary benefits of night guards is their ability to protect teeth from wear and damage caused by bruxism. Grinding and clenching exert significant pressure on the teeth, leading to enamel wear, fractures, and even the loosening of dental restorations. Night guards act as cushions, absorbing the forces generated during grinding and clenching, thereby preserving the integrity of tooth structure and preventing costly dental repairs. 

Alleviation of Jaw Pain and Discomfort 

Bruxism often leads to jaw pain, facial muscle soreness, and headaches due to the excessive strain on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Night guards in San Diego, CA, help distribute the pressure evenly across the teeth and reduce the strain on the jaw muscles and joints. By providing a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, night guards promote relaxation of the jaw muscles during sleep, decreasing discomfort and improving overall comfort. 

Reduction of Headaches and Facial Tension 

Many individuals with bruxism experience frequent headaches and tension in the face and temples due to the constant clenching of the jaw muscles. Night guards help alleviate these symptoms by minimizing the impact of grinding forces on the teeth and jaw joints. By reducing muscle tension and promoting a more relaxed jaw position, night guards contribute to decreasing the frequency and intensity of headaches associated with bruxism.  

Protection of Dental Restorations 

Night guards offer essential protection for individuals with dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers. These restorations can be vulnerable to damage from bruxism-induced forces. Night guards help extend the longevity of dental work by shielding it from excessive wear and ensuring that it remains securely in place. 

Maintaining Overall Oral Health  

Night guards contribute to maintaining overall oral health by preventing tooth wear, reducing jaw pain, and protecting dental restorations. They also help prevent the development of more serious dental issues that may arise from untreated bruxism, such as tooth fractures, gum recession, and TMJ disorders.  

How to Care for Night Guards 

• Rinse your night guard with cool water before and after each use. Brush it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap to remove any debris. Avoid using hot water or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the night guard. 

• When not in use, store your night guard in a ventilated case to protect it from dust and bacteria. Keep it away from pets, as they may mistake it for a chew toy. 

• Depending on the type and material, night guards should be replaced periodically to ensure proper fit and effectiveness. Follow our dentist's recommendations for replacement intervals. 

Night guards are invaluable tools for protecting teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism and jaw clenching during sleep. Visit Mira Mesa Dental Care at 6755 Mira Mesa Blvd, Ste 142, San Diego, CA 92121, or call (858) 457-7747 to determine the best type of night guard for your specific needs and start safeguarding your smile and oral health today.