Do you grind or clench your teeth when you sleep? This is medically known as bruxism and it is actually pretty common. And if you are like most others who are bothered by bruxism, then you are probably considering wearing a nightguard. If someone has ever suggested this solution to you, then you probably already have some idea how it can benefit you.

A lot of people feel a little skeptical about the idea of wearing nightguards. And you, too, might be wondering whether or not you really need one. The answer ultimately depends on your dentist’s findings. This post, however, will help you know more about nightguards and their purpose.

So what is a nightguard? A nightguard, an occlusal guard, occlusal splint or bite splint, as it is also called, is a device that is placed on top of your teeth to help protect them when you grind and clench. Grinding is the moving of your jaw back and forth. Clenching is biting down hard for a period of time.

The nightguard is designed to be a protective layer between your teeth. They are often made of plastic and worn over all or some of your upper and lower teeth (although most people prefer to cover just the upper teeth). However, for patients wearing another dental appliance, like braces, for example, your dentist will probably suggest that you wear a nightguard over your lower teeth, too.

As you can imagine, when you grind or when you clench your teeth together, your jaw muscles can get strained. But worse than that, your teeth can eventually chip and even crack. This is why you’d want to wear night guards.

It is true that wearing nightguards cannot keep you from grinding or clenching, especially when you sleep. What they can do is protect your teeth by acting like a cushion so that it will be the one that will get worn down (instead of your teeth) when you grind or clench. Additionally, nightguards can also give your jaw some rest while you are sleeping.

Does Wearing Nightguards Hurt?

Some may complain that their nightguards hurt them or are really uncomfortable. That only means that what they are wearing are not custom-fitted or their dentists were not able to fit them properly. Of course, wearing nightguards will take some getting used to. You cannot expect for it to feel normal from the first time you wear them. But that is normal for any dental appliance.

Custom Fitting is Key

You may be able to find nightguards that are sold cheaper than the ones you can get from your dentist. Don’t be tempted by the low price, though. There are reasons why custom-fitted nightguards cost a little more than ready-made ones.

A custom-fitted nightguard won’t push onto your gums, hurt, or fall out. They are also made to be aligned with your jaw to avoid any problems. They can also last much longer!

If you think you are unknowingly damaging your teeth when you clench and grind when you sleep, go ahead and get a custom-fit nightguard now! Contact us and we’d be happy to refer you to one of our dentists in your area who can help you.